MIS Professor Leaves Mark

By Lindsay Anderson

After almost 20 years on the Hilltop, Dr. Chuck West, Executive in Residence for the Management Information Systems (MIS) program in the Entrepreneurship, Technology and Law Department, is retiring at the end of this spring’s semester.

While at the Foster College of Business, West designed and taught numerous courses in MIS, the business application of computers and information systems. West also taught graduate courses tailored for the Master of Business Administration and in the Executive MBA program. Additionally, West won the 2008 Foster College of Business Teaching Innovation Award for his creative approach to instruction design.

“I believe I’ve taught all but two MIS courses since coming to Bradley,” West said. “I’ve enjoyed all of the classes I’ve taught, but one of my favorites was MIS 378 – Human Factors/Usability Testing. What I liked about that class is that it wasn’t just business or MIS students, but a wide variety of concentrations ranging from engineering or fine arts to LAS or computer science.”

In addition to his favorite classes, West always put first priority on his students.

“Chuck has gone out of his way to help so many students both inside and outside the classroom,” said Entrepreneurship, Technology and Law Department Chair and Professor Dr. Matthew McGowan. “He’s helped students get jobs and orchestrated special projects in his courses that would benefit the community, ranging from small businesses to non-profits.”

“Seeing the light bulb light up and witnessing the student understanding everything was a great highlight,” West remarked. “It also was enjoyable to get a call from a former student thanking you and telling you your teaching is something that he or she put into practice.”

Fellow faculty applauded his service to the University.

“I have worked with Chuck for 16 years,” Associate Professor Dr. Paul Stephens said.  “He has a real passion for both education and technology, and he hasn’t lost any of the spark needed to be an educator that connects with students. For many years, Chuck taught extra classes, new preparations, and well-timed electives.  Not only do we lose a fine educator, but we also lose someone with strong ties to the community. “ 

“Chuck has been an outstanding faculty member,” added Foster College Dean Dr. Darrell Radson. “His drive to always help students and his passion for technology will be missed. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

West is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Sherril, who is also retired. They reside in Washington, Illinois. He is also planning on working with the Central Illinois Center of Excellence for Secure Software (CICESS) to bring close to 500 “super-techy” jobs to the community.