The Human Side Of Technology

Since it was established in 1992, NC State’s College of Management has carved a niche for itself as a comprehensive business college with uniquely focused graduate and undergraduate programs that prepare individuals for careers in today’s dynamic, technology-rich, global business environment. The college’s faculty integrate real world experiences with classroom instruction, drawing on their research and practical experience. Project-based classes have student teams working with companies to provide solutions to real issues being faced by businesses and industries today. This approach is particularly effective for students transitioning from a technical background to management roles.

Perhaps no one exemplifies how successful such a transition can be better than Benjamin Jenkins (’68), vice chairman and president of the General Bank, Wachovia. A longtime supporter and friend of NC State, Jenkins earned his bachelor’s degree in textiles chemistry before pursuing an MBA from the University of Alabama. Jenkins’ impressive business career exemplifies the power of channeling a technology-oriented undergraduate experience into senior management leadership.

The Jenkins Graduate School of Management

In recognition of Jenkins’ financial support of NC State, his model career, and ongoing commitment to excellence, NC State named the graduate programs in the College of Management the Jenkins Graduate School of Management. “The College of Management is very pleased to be associated with the values and achievements that have marked Ben’s 35-year career with Wachovia,” notes Ira R. Weiss, dean of the college. Weiss adds, “His career path — transitioning from a technology-focused undergraduate degree to senior leadership positions with Wachovia — parallels the transition that many of our technology-oriented graduate students seek in coming to our programs.”

Ben Jenkins’ gift will go to support three endowed professorships, one each in the departments of accounting, business management and economics. A related gift from Wachovia supports fellowships for students in the Jenkins Graduate School’s three programs — the Master of Accounting (MAC) and Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs, as well as the Graduate Economics Program, offered jointly by the College of Management and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

The Jenkins Graduate School will continue to advance its mission of helping technically-trained undergraduates become top-notch graduate business students and ultimately, future business leaders. “Ben’s financial support and ongoing relationship with the college will help us continue to strengthen and grow our uniquely technology-focused graduate programs in accounting, management and economics,” Weiss said.

Jenkins has long supported the college’s mission: “It’s not just the technical skills that you need to be successful,” says Jenkins. “It’s the people skills. Management programs round out a person’s prior education, providing the skill sets needed for success in business today. This is what I think the college and this graduate school can offer to technology-based graduate students. That’s why I’m so excited about this honor.”