In summer 2025, Dr. Bebonchu Atems was appointed as the new Dean of the School of Business at Norfolk State University. Before coming to Norfolk State, Dr. Atems served as the Dean of the David D. Reh School of Business at Clarkson University in Latham, New York. He brings knowledge in macroeconomics, econometrics and energy economics. He received his B.A. in Economics from the University of Maryland and both M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Economics from Kansas State University.
In his work as an economist, he has been widely published in leading academic journals and has frequently presented at national and international conferences. He is also a highly regarded educator, having earned multiple awards for teaching excellence at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
In his role at NSU, which he calls both a privilege and a responsibility, Atems hopes to make the School of Business a recognized leader in preparing students for careers of impact in business, technology and society. He continues this sentiment by saying, “We will build a school that delivers excellent teaching, produces impactful research, and develops graduates who are both career-ready and community-minded. I want us to be known as a hub of innovation, entrepreneurship and societal impact in Hampton Roads and beyond.”
The School of Business offers undergraduate programs in Accountancy, Business and Tourism & Hospitality Management, with a host of concentrations in business intelligence and data analytics, management information systems, marketing and more. They also provide professional development opportunities, internships and experiential learning experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world applications. All the programs are also AACSB-accredited, which places them among the top 6% of business schools worldwide.
“Business is one of the most versatile and impactful career paths. A degree in business opens doors across industries, from finance to technology, healthcare to entrepreneurship, ”Atems expresses. However, what sets Norfolk State apart is the environment thoughtfully crafted by attending a Historically Black College and University. "At NSU, students do not just earn a degree; they gain experiences, mentorship and a network that will set them apart. Choosing business at NSU means joining a community that invests deeply in your success while preparing you to compete on a global stage."
Under Dr. Atems' leadership, the School of Business will strive for excellence and stewardship. “This is a particularly exciting moment for the School of Business. We are building new partnerships, launching innovative programs and working to expand opportunities for students locally and globally,” he states. “My commitment is to ensure that every student who passes through our doors leaves empowered, equipped and proud to be a Spartan.”;redefining busine