Beta Gamma Sigma recognizes the best in business through our programs, awards, and events. It is crucial for us to recognize those individuals who play a leading role in Beta Gamma Sigma members becoming the best in business: our Deans.

The Dean of the Year Award is a recognition awarded by Beta Gamma Sigma to an outstanding Dean who made significant contributions to the success of his or her chapter while supporting the Beta Gamma Sigma mission throughout the course of the academic year.

Beta Gamma Sigma invites our Highest Honors Chapters to nominate their Deans to be honored as a recipient of the Dean of the Year Award.

The 2019 Dean of the Year Award nomination process is now closed. Applications were due by December 18, 2018. If you have any questions, please contact Denise Cage at dcage@betagammasigma.org.

Betty Jo Licata, Ph.D.

Dean, Williamson College of Business Administration
Youngstown State University – Youngstown, OH

Dr. Betty Jo Licata joined Youngstown State University (YSU) as dean of the Williamson College of Business Administration in July 1995.  For several years prior, she served as the dean of the Dahlkemper School of Business Administration at Gannon University.

YSU earned initial AACSB accreditation in April 2000 and installed its BGS chapter the same year.  Since that time, YSU has inducted more than 800 members and been recognized as a Highest Honors Chapter numerous times – much as a result of Dean Licata’s unwavering support.  

For example, she sent 30+ students to the Global Leadership Summit, provided reimbursements for completion of the Ethical Leadership Certification and enabled chapter officers to attend collegiate chapter training seminars.  From her presence at taping ceremonies, to funding of honor stoles and dinners for new inductees and their guests, Dean Licata’s selflessness is well known.  Thanks to her involvement, the BGS key is now proudly displayed at YSU. 

Dr. Licata is immediate past chair of the BGS Board of Governors and has served in various capacities on numerous AACSB International committees, councils and teams.  These include the AACSB Continuous Improvement Review Committee, AACSB Business Accreditation Policy Council, AACSB Peer Review Team, and AACSB Board of Directors.

Extremely active as a leader within her Youngstown-Mahoning Valley community, Dr. Licata has served as chairperson or board member with Mercy Health-Youngstown, the United Way, Junior Achievement, the Better Business Bureau, Catholic Health Partners, and her Youngstown diocese.  Recognition awards for her community service are numerous, with Junior Achievement and Ohio Small Business Development Centers among them.