Br. Leo Ryan, CSV, served as dean of DePaul University’s College of Commerce — known today as the Driehaus College of Business — from 1980-1988, before continuing to serve as a professor of management until 1999.

photo by Darryl Hammond

photo by Darryl Hammond

At DePaul’s recent graduation, university officials acknowledged Br. Ryan’s impact on its business college, in awarding him a Doctor of Humane Letters honorary degree, a first for a former faculty member. In remarks made at the commencement ceremony, university officials credited Br. Ryan with helping to transform its business college into a nationally ranked and internationally known institution.

They pointed to key programs he created, including the School of Accountacy, the Institute for Business Ethics, the Kellstadt Marketing Research Center and the first endowed professorships in entrepreneurship and finance. They also credited him with adding faculty and new graduate programs in association management, business ethics, entrepreneurship, international business and management information systems, which helped to elevate the business college.

Finally, they pointed to Br. Ryan’s formation of the College of Commerce Advisory Council, saying that it fostered channels of communication between DePaul and Chicago businesses, industries and various professions.

These vital links, university officials said, have enhanced the university’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the city’s business future.