Caryn Beck-Dudley, the fifth dean and the first woman to lead the Florida State University College of Business, led the college to the precipice of preeminence during her nine years as dean. Perhaps most notably, she intensified and expanded the college’s advancement infrastructure and launched funding for Legacy Hall, the college's world-class new home.
75th Anniversary News
Fourth dean: Stith helped college achieve ‘global distinction’
Melvin Stith succeeded E. Ray Solomon as dean of the Florida State University College of Business in 1991 and embarked on 13 years of collaboration and transformation. He remains beloved for the warmth he carried into every room, respected for his ability to connect on a meaningful level and celebrated for laying the groundwork for the largest gift in the university’s history.
Third dean: Ray Solomon forged ‘a path to growth and preeminence’
E. Ray Solomon (1929-2019) oversaw explosive student enrollment, initiated a commitment to research and service, established a fundraising program and led the effort to build a new wing for the Rovetta Business Building (RBB) -- the Rovetta Business Annex (RBA), completed in 1984. All those accomplishments positioned the FSU College of Business for the international standing it boasts today.
Second dean: Charles Rovetta launched FSU Business into the modern era
Charles Rovetta (1907-2004), who served as FSU’s second business dean, more than doubled the faculty size and recruited new hires from top U.S. universities. He also compelled his faculty to provide “a variable, resilient education for those who will be leaders in this society.” No name is more synonymous with the FSU College of Business.
First dean: Frank Dame created a buzz around business
J. Frank Dame led the FSU School of Business – formerly FSU’s Department of Commerce -- from 1950 to 1953 and helped establish three core principles that the college embraces to this day: comprehensive academic offerings, responsiveness to industry needs and commitment to student success.
