MURFREESBORO – Dr. Gladys DeJesus served Chowan University as a Professor of Economics for 25 years prior to announcing her retirement in May 2018.

Dr. DeJesus joined the Chowan University faculty in 1993 as Associate Professor of Economics. She brought with her previous experience from East Carolina University, as well as other universities in the United States and abroad. She earned her bachelor degree from National University in the Dominican Republic, graduating summa cum laude and valedictorian, before traveling to the United States when she received the Fulbright Scholarship in 1974 and studied at Stanford University. She continued her studies in America at the Ohio State University earning a Master of Arts and the PhD in economics, making her the first woman from her home country to earn a PhD in economics.

Dr. DeJesus taught at her alma mater and later relocated to North Carolina to serve as an Assistant Professor of Economics at East Carolina University. She took a leave of absence from East Carolina University (ECU) for three years to return home and serve as the main international trade representative. After returning to ECU Dr. DeJesus got married and had a daughter. Her priorities shifted and she left the research heavy institution to join the Chowan faculty.

“My employment fit into Chowan’s transition plan from a junior college to a four-year college, so I joined ready to participate in this project,” said Dr. DeJesus.

In 2005, Dr. DeJesus was promoted to full Professor of Economics, and was later awarded the rank of Distinguished Professor of Economics and Chair of the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies in 2012. In 2011 she received the Faculty Advisor of the Year Award, and received the Excellence in Teaching Award in both 2012 and 2002.

Professor Patsy Taylor, colleague and friend, said of Dr. DeJesus, “She is thoughtful, kind hearted and tenacious, and in my opinion that is a winning combination.”

Dean of the School of Business Dr. Linda Miles added, “Dr. DeJesus is a welcoming presence in the School of Business. The warmth of her personality combines with the ambience of an office filled with plants and artwork. We truly appreciate her many contributions to the School of Business.”

Twenty-five years after joining the Chowan faculty Dr. DeJesus has made a tremendous impact and is ready for her well-earned retirement. Although she will no longer be in the classroom, she will remain in Murfreesboro and plans to continue her involvement in church and community organizations.

For more information about Chowan University, visit www.chowan.edu or call 1-888-4-CHOWAN.