Faculty Focus - Peggy Keiper
Peggy holds numerous degrees, including an MBA from Lynn University in Florida and a Ph.D. in Sport Administration from the University of New Mexico. She just joined the SOM faculty this fall as an assistant professor of business administration.
"What brought you to ÓÐÁϺÐ×ÓÊÓƵ?"
"I spent a summer in Kenai in 2010 and knew ÓÐÁϺÐ×ÓÊÓƵ was where I wanted to live. The timing was perfect in my personal life and the position was an ideal fit for what I wanted in my career."
What do you tell people in the Lower 48 about living in ÓÐÁϺÐ×ÓÊÓƵ?
I tell a lot of people it is very similar to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan but with mountains and different critters. All others who are not familiar with Michigan or who haven’t been to ÓÐÁϺÐ×ÓÊÓƵ, I tell them I live in an igloo and fend off polar bears daily.
This is your first year with SOM. What do you like most about it?
My colleagues and the organizational culture are what I like the most. We are an AACSB accredited school with an ÓÐÁϺÐ×ÓÊÓƵn feel. You would be hard pressed to find a more positive and supportive organizational culture then the one in SOM.
What is on your wish list for your next five years here?
I plan on getting out and exploring all that I can in ÓÐÁϺÐ×ÓÊÓƵ. A dall sheep hunt is at the top of my list for next summer.
Describe your teaching style.
My teaching style is definitely a blended style with an emphasis on practical experience. I spent almost ten years working professionally in various capacities within the sports industry and I bring that experience into the classroom. Also, I integrate humor, professional development, new learning technologies, and games into my classes. I truly love teaching and getting to know my students.
What advice do you have for students?
Be strategic in your academic pursuit, no matter your degree level. Fully understand the return on investment of your education. Know yourself and know your field of study – including what it takes to get a job in your field.
- What do you do when not teaching? I am usually outdoors hunting, fishing, or foraging for something.
- What is one thing you think everyone should own no matter the cost? A dog, though who owns whom is debatable.
- What is your hidden talent? I like to paint and draw when I have time.
- What do you do think about when alone in your car? I am usually thinking about the outdoors or hoping that my year old lab (Boone) didn’t destroy something in my house when I was gone.
- If you were granted one wish to change the world, what would it be? That every individual could spend time alone outside in nature. I think it would solve a lot of problems in regard to how we treat each other and our environment, and it would add some much-needed respect for the lands and waters in which we are fortunate enough to have access to.
