The Poets&Quants publication released this week named Neeley School of Business professors Zachary Hall, an associate professor of marketing, and Renee Olvera, a professor of professional practice in accounting, to the top 50 list, a global honor.
December 08, 2023
By Alexandria Salinas
The Poets&Quants recognition of Top 50 Undergraduate Business School Professors of 2023 includes two TCU Neeley School of Business faculty members - Zachary Hall and Renee Olvera.
Poets&Quants, a publication known for its extensive coverage of business schools, announced the best undergrad professors based on more than 500 nominations, placing two TCU Neeley leaders on the prestigious list.
To be included in this globally curated list, Olvera, director of the Master Accounting Program and a professor of professional practice in accounting, and Hall, director of the TCU Sales Center and an associate professor of marketing, had to stand out in a cohort of notable educators.
Both Neeley professors demonstrate exceptional commitment, innovative teaching methodologies and remarkable impacts on their students’ futures.
“Dr. Hall has developed an incredibly hands-on,real-world curriculum to develop the foundation for future sales leaders,” said Preston Yale ‘17, a marketing graduate who lauded Hall’s influence in his career trajectory.
Similarly, Carlee Young ‘19, an alumna from the accounting program, expressed profound admiration for Olvera’s teaching style and dedication.
“Dr. Olvera is truly the most passionate person and professor I have ever had,” said Young, highlighting Olvera’s ability to make learning impactful and comprehensive.
In addition to their exemplary teaching abilities, both professors garnered recognition for their outstanding contribution to academia. Hall, a visionary who elevated the TCU Sales Center into a highly coveted program, has received prestigious teaching awards and accolades for his research and fostering a generation of sales professionals.
On the accounting side, Olvera’s expertise in audit and assurance, coupled with her innovative teaching methods, earned her several esteemed awards, including the Outstanding Accounting Educator Award for the Texas Society of CPAs.
“I truly believe in the emotional connection to learning,” Olvera said, adding that she is committed to engaging students through interactive methodologies. Hall echoed this dedication, noting the importance of hands-on learning experiences in shaping future business leaders.
Both professors share a belief in staying ahead of the evolving landscape of business education, advocating for more technology integration and inclusiveness in organizations. Hall’s passion for sales education and Olvera’s research on technology’s role in accounting underscored their attentiveness to preparing students for the dynamic business world.
Hall’s initiatives in mentorship programs outside the classroom and Olvera’s efforts in fostering diversity and inclusion were pivotal in their selection for the Poets&Quants honor. Their ability to go beyond traditional teaching roles, guiding students towards holistic growth, serve as a testament to their dedication and impact on the academic community.
