The College of Business is pleased to announce that Jon Leinonen, teaching professor in management, has been appointed assistant dean for the College of Business and director of Husky innovate.
“I’m thrilled that Jon has accepted these new responsibilities,” says Dean Johnson, dean of the College of Business. “He brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to both of these roles.”
“I’m excited to be working more closely with the COB administrative team as assistant dean,” says Leinonen. “I look forward to working with the College of Business and partners across Michigan Tech to help students reach their goals and position them for future success.”
As assistant dean, Leinonen is helping to administer college courses, participating in collaborative efforts to establish an Essential Education entrepreneurial pathway, and working to support the college’s AACSB accreditation renewal process, among other duties.
As director of Husky Innovate, Leinonen is helping both current and future Michigan Tech students see Michigan Tech as a path to entrepreneurship.
“Many students may not realize the extent of entrepreneurial services that exist at Michigan Tech,” says Leinonen. “Husky Innovate was established in 2019, with roots that extend much further back. Throughout the program, many students have developed marketable products, refined their business models and pitches, won thousands of dollars through competitive awards, and attracted investment,” Leinonen says.
Husky Innovate students are currently working on a 2024-25 roster or activities, workshops and a business pitch competition. The events calendar will be announced soon.
Leinonen also advises a chapter of the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization, which added 35 students to their roster at this fall’s K Day event.
“For the most part, students haven’t come to Michigan Tech with the intention of starting a business, but once they recognize the breadth and depth of support that is available, they can start to see their potential as business owners.”