2017 Top 40 Undergraduate Professors Kevin Michels, The College of New Jersey

2017 Top 40 Undergraduate Professors: Kevin Michels, The College of New Jersey by: Andrea Carter on September 18, 2017 | 0 Comments Comments 383 Views September 18, 2017Kevin MichelsProfessor and Director of the School of Business Center for Innovation and EthicsThe College of New Jersey School of BusinessThe annual tradition at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) is for graduating seniors to nominate a member of the school’s faculty to deliver a keynote address. One year ago, that honor was bestowed upon Professor Kevin Michels. Michels teaches courses in law, ethics, and innovation and is the director of the business school’s Center for Innovation and Ethics. As a law expert and a former law practice director, Michels also publishes frequently. His work has been published in the Rutgers Law Review, the Georgetown Journal of Legal Ethics, and the Case Western Reserve Law Review. He’s also the author of New Jersey Attorney Ethics, a treatise on the law of lawye ring in New Jersey, which has been cited in the published opinions of state and federal courts in New Jersey.Inside the classroom, he is known for incorporating a unique presentation style in his lectures; rarely using any form of technology such as powerpoint slides and instead centering class time around dialogue and discussion. Michels has received two teaching awards at TCNJ.Age:   56At current institution since: 2006Education:  BA, History/Political Science (Double Major); Philosophy Minor, Rutgers College 1983;  JD, Rutgers Law School Newark, 1986List of courses currently teaching: Innovation,  Business Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility,  The Legal  Environment of BusinessFun fact about yourself: Loves innovation but revises drafts with a fountain penâ€Å"If I weren’t a business school professor†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I’d be writing articles and books anyway  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"One word that describes my first time teaching†   Conversation   Wh at do you enjoy most about teaching undergraduate business students? Sparking curiosity, original and deep thinking; the beauty of conversation designed to learn from each other; and the capacity to change one’s mind in the presence of a better reason.   What is the biggest challenge that comes with teaching undergraduate business students? Helping them see business as part of the larger human enterprise.   What does a student need to do to get an A in your class? Think deeply and originally and express those thoughts clearly.   What are your hobbies? Writing, reading, golf, hiking, tennis, and guitar.   How did you spend your summer? Teaching law students to be agents of change at Gonzaga Law School.   Favorite place to vacation: Pacific NorthwestFavorite book: The five that I have out from the library at any given timeFavorite type of music and/or favorite artist: Classical, blues and indie, depending on the moment   Bucket list item #1: Rent a house with family and friends in Augusta, Ga. for Masters week   What professional achievement are you most proud of? Election to the American Law InstituteWhat is your most memorable moment as a professor? The first class I taught within minutes we were engaged in conversation rather than lecture. Professor you most admire and why: Doug Husak, Rutgers Philosophy.   He showed me the power of an interesting problem and the joy of working it carefully.   What are you currently researching and what is the most significant discovery youve made from it?  I  am writing a book on innovation, which proposes a way to connect knowledge from various disciplines to create something new.   Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"If I had my way, the business school of the future would have much more of this†¦Ã¢â‚¬    Courses and centers on innovation and value creation that have genuine connections with the liberal arts and other professional schools.   Looking ahead 10 years from now, describe what â€Å"successâ₠¬  would like for you:  Personally Lots of time with family and friends; Professionally Still on fire with ideas and possibilitiesStudents sayIt should be noted that there are never enough words nor ways to express my gratitude for this individual in helping me become a better thinker, writer, and global citizen. His contributions to higher education are incalculable, and certainly transcend the general expectations of college students. Page 1 of 11