Founded in 1887, Nebraska Wesleyan University is among the strongest liberal arts institutions in the Midwest and is dedicated to academic excellence in an environment of Christian concern. Working professionals in Lincoln and Omaha can pursue their career goals with a Master of Business Administration from NWU, which offers three program options. Courtney Baillie, Ph.D. is the MBA Program Director for Nebraska Wesleyan University.
Tell me a little about your business. – The MBA program at Nebraska Wesleyan combines our reputation of quality and personal attention with flexibility for the working adult. Classes are held one evening per week in eight-week sessions on both our Lincoln and Omaha campuses. The focus of the curriculum is “real-world” application of course material. Class projects will involve working with local businesses and nonprofits. Track specializations include leadership, classic, health care management and design-your-own. In addition, the MBA offers a mentoring program and networking events.
How did you get started in the business? – I’ve been teaching accounting for over twenty years; the past 15 at Nebraska Wesleyan. The idea of offering an MBA has been discussed for over a decade. Finally, the timing was right. Our department accrediting body encouraged us to start an MBA and a new proactive dean of adult and graduate programs came on board. Through surveys and focus groups, we designed a program that our stakeholders wanted.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – When I began teaching full-time at Nebraska Wesleyan in 1999, I was in the middle of my doctoral program and had two young children. The demands of work, school and home were overwhelming. With time management, a supportive husband and a few meltdowns, I made it through.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – Starting a new graduate program from scratch and watching it turn into reality.
Tell me a little about your family. – My husband, Scot, and I will be celebrating our 25th anniversary this August. We have two children. Our son, Reed, is a sophomore studying political science at Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota. Our daughter, Quinn, will be starting at Nebraska Wesleyan University this fall. We also have a Westie named Piper.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Quitting my job in public accounting to join the Peace Corps.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Puttering around in the morning drinking tea and reading the paper, taking the dog for a long walk, reading or watching a good movie. A nap is also nice, too.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – My husband and I volunteered for the Peace Corps in the early 1990’s and were assigned to Russia. This was shortly after the Soviet Union collapsed. It was quite an adventure.
What are you the most proud of? – My children. They’ve turned out really great!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Things don’t matter. People matter.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Genuine.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – The Corrections by Jonathan Franzen.
What is your favorite movie? – Being There.
What is your favorite TV show? – House of Cards.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – The Oven.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – You can reach me via email at ccb@nebrwesleyan.edu or visit our website at www.nebrwesleyan.edu/mba.