From the U.S. Army to the boardroom: A career of leadership

A Soldier First

Before Dr. Bob Duesing ever set foot in a college classroom, he had already led thousands. His full career in the U.S. Army, serving in Infantry, Armor and Cavalry units worldwide, took him through progressive leadership roles with organizations of 20 to 17,000 soldiers. That foundation of discipline, strategy and people leadership turned out to be the perfect preparation for what came next.

Bringing Leadership to the Classroom

When Duesing transitioned to academia, he brought that same orientation to Georgia College & State University, where he has spent his career teaching strategic management and entrepreneurship at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, including the WebMBA program. His academic credentials are equally impressive: a Ph.D. in strategic management from Oklahoma State University, an MS from the University of Southern California and a BBA from the University of Cincinnati.

Research That Reaches Beyond Campus

His research has taken him across the U.S. and Europe, with 14 published articles in journals including the Journal of Managerial Issues and the Journal of Strategic Management Education. But Duesing has never been content with keeping his expertise in the classroom or on the page. He has consulted with small businesses, nonprofit organizations and individual startups, including many former students striking out on their own, and has provided community seminars on strategic management for years.

Building the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Perhaps his most lasting contribution to student life at Georgia College is the GC Entrepreneurs Club, which he founded and has led for years, bringing in speakers from across the region to inspire the next generation of business leaders.

A Record That Speaks for Itself

And then there's Capsim, the business simulation platform where Georgia College students manage every functional area of a virtual company over an eight-year cycle, competing against thousands of teams worldwide. Duesing has coached over 40 teams to top 10% finishes globally. It's a quiet statistic that speaks volumes.

Beyond the Office

When he's not in the classroom or consulting, Duesing can be found exploring. He has visited every state in the U.S. and nearly every country in Europe.

We are proud to celebrate Dr. Bob Duesing as he heads into retirement and receives the title of Professor Emeritus, a recognition as well-traveled and well-earned as the man himself.