Bryan McCannon '98 Named Director of New School of Business and Economics

March 23, 2023

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Bryan C. McCannon '98 has been selected as the new director of Illinois Wesleyan University’s School of Business and Economics, effective July 1, 2023.

“We're absolutely delighted to have Dr. McCannon return to his alma mater as the leader of our new School of Business and Economics. He is an accomplished economist with a broad understanding of not just economics and the business disciplines — he understands and fully embraces the liberal arts as well,” said IWU Provost Mark Brodl. “He brings with him powerful insights from a range of institutional and program types that will both inspire innovation and support the ongoing strengths of our current programs.”

McCannon is currently an associate professor of economics at West Virginia University, where he also directs the Center for Free Enterprise. He previously served on the faculties of Saint Bonaventure University, Wake Forest University and Elmira College.

“I have found quite a bit of pleasure in the leadership experiences I have had previously and have been craving to take on a more substantial role. I just would never have believed that this opportunity would come at my alma mater. I feel incredibly fortunate,” said McCannon.

After graduating from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1998 with a bachelor of economics and business administration, McCannon earned a Ph.D. in economics from Pennsylvania State University. While studying at IWU, McCannon recalls the rigor, passion and energy he and his peers received from faculty. 

“I cherish my time at IWU. I truly believe it was the right environment for me when I was young. There is such a wonderful commitment to student success by the faculty. I take it as an honor to be able to contribute to this culture and to be a part of ensuring that IWU maintains this high level of success going forward,” he said. 

McCannon will be leading the newly formed School of Business and Economics, a program that he said stands out among other business schools in the country due to the commitment toward a well-rounded, liberal arts education — “something that provides broad exposure to ideas, perspectives and subjects.”

“Ultimately, leadership in higher education is all about searching for ways to provide the best, most-valuable learning experience for students,” said McCannon. “As the world is constantly changing, this requires innovation. I hope my experiences finding ways to promote student success in the past carries me forward in this new role.”

McCannon will succeed John Camey, who has served as interim director of the School of Business and Economics while the search for a permanent director was launched. 

By Julia Perez