Following a national search, Jian “Jeff” Guan, Ph.D., will serve as dean of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Collat School of Business, effective Jan. 1, 2027.
Guan is executive director for AI Strategy and Innovation and professor of computer information systems at the University of Louisville, where he previously served as interim dean of the College of Business for three years. He brings more than three decades of experience in business education, academic leadership and the application of technology to business and organizational challenges.
“Dr. Guan rose to the top of a strong candidate pool vetted by our search committee and has a great opportunity to build on the positive momentum the school has been cultivating in recent years,” said Janet Woodruff-Borden, Ph.D., senior vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. “Dr. Guan’s experience in academic leadership will combine well with his firm grasp of current and future trends and technologies to prepare Collat students, faculty and staff for success in a rapidly evolving world. I am confident that his experience and dedication will serve the school, its industry and community partners, and the broader university well.”
As interim dean at Louisville, Guan led strategic planning and a successful Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation review while advancing enrollment, student retention, philanthropy and academic programs aligned with workforce needs. He now leads the university’s AI initiative, connecting academic programs, research, university operations, and business and community engagement.
“I am honored to lead the impressive students and talented faculty and staff of the Collat School of Business as I become part of this special community,” Guan said. “I look forward to working alongside the Collat team and our students, alumni and business and community partners to build on the school’s strengths, empower excellence in teaching and research, and prepare students to be future leaders.”
Guan will succeed Karen Kennedy, Ph.D., who has served as interim dean following the retirement of Dean Christopher L. Shook, Ph.D., at the end of the spring 2026 semester.
“I am grateful to Dr. Shook and Dr. Kennedy for their steady leadership and dedication to support a smooth transition for the school,” Woodruff-Borden said. “Their work, and that of the school’s faculty and staff, has helped sustain Collat’s positive momentum and provide a strong foundation as we welcome Dr. Guan.”