Faculty Spotlight - Dr. Carolyn Dang
Five Questions with a Faculty Member...
Dr. Carolyn Dang, Assistant Professor of Management and Organization; Cook Fellow in Ethics
1. Tell us about the classes you teach and the areas you research.
I teach undergraduate classes in organizational behavior (MGMT 326 – Organizational Behavior and Design) and leadership (MGMT 355 – Leadership and Organizational Change). My research focuses on ethical issues within organizations, with an emphasis on behavioral ethics and social issues in management.
2. What do you enjoy most about the work that you do?
As a first generation college student, I understand the challenges that college life can present. The capacity to interact with students from diverse backgrounds, and to see them grow and develop intellectually and professionally, is a rewarding part of my job.
3. How has the pandemic changed the way you approach your role as an instructor?
As an instructor, I think sometimes the focus is on making sure the class progresses through a planned course schedule, and cover planned course content. The pandemic has revealed what likely is a truism, that the best laid plans can and do go awry. Adaptation, being flexible, and being kind and empathetic to those suffering in these times, are themes that I re-visit often in my teaching now.
4. The pandemic has created a wide range of challenges and opportunities for individuals and organizations around the world. How do you believe a student’s management coursework will help them to be successful in a post-pandemic era?
Management to me is about the study of chaos—there are few forces more chaotic, unruly, and unpredictable in life than human behavior. The management coursework encourages students to revel in the chaos, and, importantly, to learn principles and tools to navigate through it and lead the organization to a better end. My hope is that students in the post-pandemic era will be comfortable when things go non-linear, and to be able to lead themselves and their stakeholders to a state of calm.
5. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I believe it is important to make time for yourself, family, and friends. This is especially true during stressful work times, where only family and friends can help rejuvenate you. I also enjoy reading fiction books and watching cooking shows.