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Business School Dean Filiz Tabak Named Interim Dean of ESU School of Business and Technology

Emporia, KS (07/06/2026) — A business school dean and professor at the University of Mary Washington will begin her new role as interim dean of Emporia State University's School of Business and Technology on July 20.

Dr. Filiz Tabak will join ESU after serving as dean and professor of management for the College of Business at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She brings extensive academic leadership experience and an international educational background to Emporia State.

Tabak earned three degrees from institutions in Istanbul, Turkey: a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering, a master's degree in marine physics and chemistry and an MBA with an emphasis in leadership and management. She later earned a Ph.D. in business administration from Oklahoma State University after spending several years in the Midwest.

Before joining the University of Mary Washington in 2023, Tabak advanced through the faculty ranks and held leadership positions in the College of Business and Economics at Towson University in Maryland.

"I was attracted to Emporia State's School of Business and Technology because of its strong commitment to student success, career readiness and innovation," Tabak said. "The integration of business, technology and applied learning creates a powerful environment for preparing graduates to thrive in a rapidly evolving economy."

Tabak will serve as interim dean beginning July 20 while the university conducts a national search for the school's next dean.

"The School of Business and Technology plays an important role in the future of Emporia State University," said Dr. R. Brent Thomas, ESU provost and vice president for academic affairs. "Dr. Tabak brings a wealth of experience, accomplishments in academic leadership and a strong commitment to student success. I am excited to welcome her to Emporia State and look forward to the leadership and perspective she will bring to the school during this transition."

As she prepares to join Hornet Nation, Tabak said she is eager to begin working with the campus community and external partners.

"During my time as interim dean, I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, alumni and industry partners to expand opportunities for experiential learning, enhance community and business engagement, strengthen academic programs and ensure that graduates are well prepared for the workforce of the future," she said. "My focus is entirely on serving Emporia State University and supporting the School of Business and Technology during this transition period."

About Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, Library and Information Management and Library and Archives, Science and Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.

ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.

For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.

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Dr. Filiz Tabak will join ESU on July 20 as interim dean of the School of Business and Technology.

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