Professor Greg Reilly, an advocate for innovative learning and a leading strategic management scholar with extensive experience training executives globally, has been appointed interim dean of the School of Business effective Jan. 3.

Reilly, a faculty member since 2007, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to guide the school during this transitional period. Long-time Dean John A. Elliott, who has served in the role for 12 years, announced his decision earlier this week to step aside and return to the accounting faculty.

“I’m honored to step into this role and to help build on the strong foundation that has been established,” Reilly said. “The School of Business has great momentum, and I’m committed to fostering that progress and ensuring we continue to innovate and thrive in a competitive environment.”

“We have challenges ahead, as all of higher education does, but I have immense confidence in UConn and the School of Business,” he added. “With the shared determination and talent of our community, I know we will continue to excel as a leader in business education.”

Reilly Has Led Educational Innovation

Provost Anne D’Alleva, in announcing the appointment, highlighted Reilly’s dedication to students and his emphasis on advancing educational innovation.

“Dr. Reilly’s leadership, collaborative approach, and commitment to the School’s mission make him an excellent choice to guide the School of Business during this period of transition,” D’Alleva said.

As the head of the Boucher Management & Entrepreneurship Department, Reilly has spearheaded numerous initiatives to expand opportunities for students. Notably, he played a pivotal role in securing an $8 million naming gift from alumna Antonietta “Toni” Boucher ’02 MBA, which has broadened entrepreneurship education across UConn, making it accessible to students from all majors.

Reilly has also been integral in establishing and expanding the Hillside Experiential Learning Programs, which offer students hands-on investing opportunities. These programs, including two venture investing funds and a private capital fund that collaborates with leading private equity firms, have significantly enhanced the School’s real-world learning offerings and reputation. Most recently, a real estate investment fund was added to the portfolio of student-led programs.

“We’ve achieved success by embracing an entrepreneurial mindset,” Reilly said. “We start with bold ideas and take measured risks. The experience of building, learning, and persisting is transformative for our students and aligns theory with practice in meaningful ways.”

Reilly also founded the School’s graduate program in Human Resource Management, further demonstrating his commitment to innovative program development.

Building Stronger Connections

Reilly has consistently emphasized the importance of fostering relationships between students, faculty, and alumni.

“We’ve cultivated strong cohorts and lasting friendships,” he said. “Our alumni play a vital role in mentoring and advising students, creating a reciprocal relationship that benefits everyone involved,” he says.

He added that he values maintaining meaningful connections with former students and encourages them to stay engaged with the School and its community.

Reilly Has Advised Executives Worldwide

Reilly’s impact extends beyond the academic sphere. He has leveraged his expertise in strategic management and human capital to lead executive training programs with organizations such as Travelers, General Dynamics/Electric Boat, and PPG Industries.

D’Alleva praised Reilly for his ability to bridge academic insights with practical applications, a skill that has benefited both his students and the organizations he has worked with globally.

Dean Elliott’s Legacy Continues

Elliott expressed enthusiasm for Reilly’s appointment, highlighting his track record of contributions to the School and his scholarship. “His ability as a creative leader will serve the School of Business well,” Elliott says.

Reilly also expressed admiration for Elliott, whose leadership has significantly shaped the School of Business.

“Dean Elliott has been a remarkable mentor and leader,” Reilly said. “His ability to listen, build consensus, and provide wisdom has been invaluable to me and to the School.”

Reilly earned his bachelor’s degree and MBA from the University of Michigan and his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin. He is married to Judy Reilly, director of the Center for Neurodiversity & Employment at UConn. They have four children, two of whom are UConn alumni.

The university will launch a national search for a permanent dean beginning in January.