UAA College of Business and Public Policy

John Nofsinger Named Dean of the College

July 12, 2021

Dr. John Nofsinger has been selected as dean of the UAA College of Business and Public Policy (CBPP). He has served as interim dean of CBPP since spring 2020 and as professor of finance and the Seward Chair in international finance at UAA.

As interim dean, Nofsinger transitioned to an administrative role during the heart of the pandemic, as well as at a pivotal time during CBPP’s business accreditation process. “I loved being a faculty member and to some extent still view myself that way,” he said. “Fortunately, I had good relationships with my colleagues that I routinely interacted with. But I had to develop relationships with many people whom I didn't know well. Luckily, everyone was patient as I learned the administrator role.”

As interim dean, he was inspired by the College’s faculty, staff, and students, which led to his decision to apply for the permanent Dean’s position. “The faculty and staff work hard and creatively to accomplish our student-centered mission. It is an honor to lead and facilitate their efforts. We accomplished a lot during the short time I was the interim dean. Together, we can maintain our momentum and accomplish much more.”

As Dean of the College, Nofsinger aims to expand student experiences, education, and career opportunities through community and industry partnerships. One example he cites is the new UAA Student Investment Fund that allows students to invest and manage a $1 million donation. “Students will get real world experience along with their top-notch education,” he said. “We are pursuing similar projects in data analytics and finance, and seeking partnerships in everything from accounting to economics to management.”

Nofsinger grew up in Pullman, Washington, where his father was a professor at Washington State University. A proclivity in math and science first led him to a professional life in engineering. “I soon realized it was more fun to use that ability in business. Formal education in MBA and doctorate programs helped me repurpose those skills for finance.”

Throughout his career, Nofsinger has authored and co-authored 12 finance trade, text and scholarly books that have been translated into eight languages. His book, The Psychology of Investing, is popular with investment advisors. He is a prolific scholar, having published over 70 articles in prestigious scholarly and practitioner journals.

He and his wife Anna relocated to Anchorage from Eastern Washington seven years ago after raising two sons. “We were thrilled that a position opened up for me at UAA so that Anna could return to Anchorage, where she grew up. It has been quite an amazing adventure!” Their home life now is dominated by Denali, their new yellow lab puppy.

In his spare time, Nofsinger said he enjoys doing what most Alaskans like to do: “fish, hike, and avoid getting mauled.” In addition, six years ago he decided to do long triathlons and honed his swimming, biking and running ability. Since then, he has completed five full length Ironman triathlons.