MSU Announces Formation of Dillard Center for Energy Management

Midwestern State University is pleased to announce the formation of the Center for Energy Management in the Dillard College of Business Administration. The goal of the center is to develop graduates who have business knowledge, skills, and competencies to be successful as they enter the exploration, production, and acquisition areas of the oil and gas industry. A concentration of energy management will be offered through the Master of Business Administration beginning in the Fall of 2015.

 "I believe that this is one of the most significant steps taken in the Dillard College of Business Administration since its accreditation by the AASCB International," said MSU President Jesse W. Rogers. "There should be a significant demand for a program like this, especially in our immediate area."

The Dillard Center for Energy Management was made possible through the generosity of Mrs. A.R. Dillard Jr. The $3.1 million pledge will provide for the development of the center as well as creation of the Sam Rugeley Distinguished Professorship of Energy Accounting, the Dillard Distinguished Professorship of Energy Management, and the Dillard Distinguished Professorship of Energy Finance.

A seven-member advisory committee comprised of successful energy professionals has identified the knowledge base that is essential for an understanding of the oil and gas business and identified the skills desired for graduates entering the industry.

 "We believe that tying the Center for Energy Management to our business community will yield many benefits to all," said Dr. Terry Patton, Dean of the Dillard College of Business Administration. "By garnering local expertise in the industry, the center will bring real-world experience to the classroom. Through internships to our students, local energy-related businesses will be able to find the qualified employees they need."

The formal announcement of the Dillard Center for Energy Management was made October 2 during the dedication of the Spirited Thunder statue in the Dillard Atrium. The statue, donated by Mrs. Dillard, was created by Chester Armstrong of Oregon in 2006, and was carved from California black walnut.

"We are grateful to Kay and her family for their generous gifts to Midwestern State University," said Rogers. "Kay has vision for this university and its students."