New Dean to Lead CoBA

Sharon Lightner, Ph.D., has been named dean of the College of Business Administration at CSUSM. She will assume her new role on July 1.The College of Business Administration is comprised of the departments of Accounting and Finance; Information Systems and Operations Management; and Management and Marketing. An MBA program was founded in 1995. Signature programs include Senior Experience, In the Executive’s Chair and the Student VIP. The College is also home to the Center for Leadership Innovation and Mentorship Building.“Dr. Lightner brings a strong record of administrative experience, teaching excellence and innovation, and fundraising success to Cal State San Marcos,” commented Dr. Emily Cutrer, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. “She has an enthusiasm and passion for business and for serving students which will be an asset to the College, the University and the region.”Lightner is currently the William E. Cole director of the Charles W. Lamden School of Accountancy at San Diego State University (SDSU). Previously, she taught financial accounting at the graduate and undergraduate level. During her teaching career, she won numerous teaching awards both at SDSU and at the national level. In fact, her effort to bridge business practice and academics led to her receiving a prestigious American Institute of CPAs/American Accounting Association Collaboration Award.  Lightner serves on the national boards of the Accounting Programs Leadership Group and the Federated Schools of Accountancy, the State Accounting Education Committee of CalCPA and the Board of Directors for CalCPA. Additionally, she currently serves on the San Diego chapter board of the Financial Executives International.  “This is an exciting opportunity and I am honored to join a team of recently appointed deans who are committed to increasing CSUSM’s community partnerships, interdisciplinary programs and quality of education,” said Lightner. “The College of Business Administration offers innovative programs facilitated by faculty, staff and business partners who have a passion for enhancing the student experience.  I’m excited and privileged to have the opportunity to be an integral part of CSUSM’s trajectory of growth and success.” Dr. Lightner earned a Bachelor of Science from the University of Montana, a Master of Science from SDSU and a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Oregon.