Baker College announces new director of undergraduate business programs

MUSKEGON, MI – LaTasha Ellis is the new director of Undergraduate Business Programs at Baker College.

Ellis has “extensive experience in higher education and the financial industry,” according to a Dec. 9 press release from the college.

“She is committed to creating dynamic opportunities for students, enhancing program relevancy, and fostering community engagement,” the press release stated.

Ellis, in her previous role, led an accelerated business program for first responders, resulting in more than 600 police officers and firefighters earning bachelor’s or MBA degrees within three years.

“The barriers these officers faced at other schools transformed my approach to managing and supporting students,” Ellis said.

She also managed youth programs and special events, and has years of experience managing fiduciary Services and operations for a bank.

Ellis holds a bachelor’s degree in business management, a master’s degree of business administration (MBA), and is pursuing her doctorate of business administration (DBA).

She plans on maintaining a supportive environment for students and a curriculum that reflects the changing needs of the business world, ensuring programs stay relevant and impactful, the press release stated.

Ellis said she attributes much of her motivation to her father, a lifelong educator and school principal.

“I watched him use his leadership and administrative skills as a principal to help failing schools transform,” Ellis said. “He poured wisdom and encouragement into his staff and the students he served, consistently and faithfully.”

Adam Mayhew, dean of undergraduate business programs for the college of business, said Ellis’ vision and commitment will be “instrumental” to the business college’s “thriving future.”

“We are fortunate to have LaTasha in the College of Business,” Mayhew said. “Her innovative approach to education, combined with her unwavering student-first mindset, is essential to our students’ success.”

Baker College, founded in 1911, is an independent, private, non-profit institution that grants associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees on campuses across Michigan, including Muskegon, Jackson, Royal Oak, Cadillac and Owosso, as well as online.

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