As the 24th Annual Compete Through Service Symposium approaches, we thought we would take a few minutes to introduce you to the CSL team. Now that you know us, we’d love to talk to you more at the symposium!
Name: Mary Jo Bitner
Where are you from?
My home town is Seattle, Washington where I grew up and went to university and graduate school. I still visit frequently!
Affiliation with the CSL:
Professor of Marketing and Executive Director, Center for Services Leadership
Time with CSL/ASU:
I have been at ASU for 27 years as a professor and have served in various roles with the CSL during that time, including research director and co-director with Steve Brown.
Background:
Prior to coming to ASU I was in graduate school at the University of Washington. Prior to that, I worked in international student programs at UW and, before that, at Stanford.
What initially drew you to the CSL?
ASU’s forward-looking focus on services leadership even in the mid-1980s was a compelling reason for me to join the faculty. Steve Brown, Michael Mokwa and others sold me on the school and their vision of CSL!
Fun fact:
I am a first-generation university graduate. My father lived the “American Dream” in immigrating to the US from The Netherlands and starting his own small manufacturing business.
Name: Alicia Holder
Where are you from?
I grew up mainly near Roy, Utah – I am an Air Force brat and my dad was stationed at Hill Air Force Base.
Affiliation with the CSL:
Director of Business Partnerships
Time with CSL/ASU:
I’ve been with the W. P. Carey School of Business for 16 years – most of that was been with the CSL. I’ve also worked with our MBA students.
Background:
Prior to coming to ASU, I was Assistant Director of University Events for Old Dominion University in Virginia Beach, VA. I worked with the President’s Office on donor events, so I’ve had a long career in higher education. I was also a certified teacher in Virginia and did some teaching at lower grade levels.
What initially drew you to the CSL?
I loved being at the intersection between business and academics – it is a fascinating blend of people. In fact, I ended up getting my MBA here. I’ve also loved the drive the school has had over the years to be a top player among business schools. It has been amazing to see us grow in quality over the years.
Where would you be if you weren’t working for the CSL/ASU?
I’d probably teaching school if I hadn’t found a role at ASU, given the trajectory I was on before coming here. My “fantasy job” if I were not doing this would involve working with color in some capacity – a designer, decorator, florist, textile designer , etc. Continue reading →
By Stephen Mostrom
Center for Services Leadership Blog 