It’s safe to say that four decades after graduating from SUNY Brockport, Michael Doyle ’80 did not forecast a future in which he would return to his alma mater as the Interim Dean for the School of Business and Management. However, after more than 30 years in the business world that is the scenario Doyle presently finds himself in after accepting the role this summer.

“I am excited for the opportunity to continue the growth and success of this outstanding School that is known throughout New York State for its wonderful faculty and curriculum designed to graduate future leaders,” said Doyle. “As a proud alum, I am excited for the opportunity to continue to position SUNY Brockport as a leader in public higher education in New York.”

Utilizing a vast network of business connections, Doyle plans on increasing Brockport’s mark in the business community. He plans to harness relationships on two fronts. First, he will ensure Brockport’s curriculum is meeting the needs of today’s businesses. Secondly, he aims to provide students outstanding opportunities for real-world experiences that will lead to employment upon graduation.

“I can engage business leaders about the needs of the community,” explained Doyle. “That’s one of the things that I can bring to the table to make sure we have those great connections with the business community at-large.”

Hands-on experience is at the forefront of Doyle’s mind. He wants students to gain practical experiences and a taste for their future profession ahead of graduation. The Wade Investment Fund was implemented this fall and will offer students opportunities to manage investment portfolios.

Listening to department chairs, club leaders, and students he passed in Hartwell Hall helped Doyle get a better read for the School’s needs. The strategy also involves getting the word out, which is why he helped the School of Business and Management social media intern develop a marketing plan.

In harnessing social media, the School wants to better communicate the latest internship opportunities, club offerings, events, and the successes of students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

Michael Doyle

Doyle developed his business acumen after his time as a student, when he studied speech communication with an emphasis in broadcasting. His early aspirations to become on-air talent in radio quickly shifted towards the business end of broadcasting.

“I wanted to be talent in the media business, that’s really what I went to school for,” shared Doyle. “But as a student I got more involved in things like the Brockport Student Government (BSG), and I realized that a lot of what I learned in communication classes and my other liberal arts classes interested me more than talking on the radio or reading the news.”

Doyle credits his time as the BSG President for gaining leadership and management skills while also acquiring a desire to give back. He chaired the Brockport Foundation’s Board of Directors since 2017 until his recent appointment as the interim dean.

The Dean for the School of Business and Management vacancy was incredibly appealing to Doyle. He unapologetically has great admiration for his alma mater. Although he recently retired after several years as the President of Sales Operations for Entercom Communications, he wanted to continue working — but in a new capacity.

“You know there are similarities in running a business and running a school,” shared Doyle, “you know in terms of the problems that you can find in any business situation that are applicable to the challenges that you face in running the School of Business and Management. So, I have knowledge that can be helpful. The reality is, it was intriguing to me because it was so different than anything I ever did in my career and it’s a challenge. And I love a challenge.”