Michigan Technological University has welcomed a new leader to its College of Business. Sri Beldona, whose first name is pronounced “Shree,” officially began his role on July 1, 2026. With a rich background in academia and industry, Beldona brings a unique perspective to the university, aiming to strengthen the connection between STEM education and business innovation.
Beldona’s journey to Michigan Tech is marked by a diverse career that spans academia and industry. Prior to joining Michigan Tech, he served as the chief academic officer at East Texas A&M University’s Dallas location. There, he pioneered the Executives in Residence program, which pairs students with accomplished leaders and entrepreneurs to gain practical insights and skills. His academic career also includes roles as associate dean at the University of Dallas and dean at Oklahoma City University. Additionally, Beldona has over a decade of experience as a consultant specializing in consumer behavior research and statistical analysis.
Beldona’s Vision for Michigan Tech
Beldona’s initial impressions of Michigan Tech have been overwhelmingly positive. During his first visit in January, he was struck by the university’s culture of excellence and the warmth of its people. His summer arrival provided a different perspective, allowing him to explore the natural beauty of the Keweenaw Peninsula and its rich Finnish heritage.
What attracted Beldona to Michigan Tech was its reputation for solving real-world problems through innovation and technology. He sees the College of Business as a strategic partner in this mission, aiming to prepare graduates who can create meaningful impact in industry and society. Beldona’s background in engineering, marketing, and international business allows him to connect technical disciplines with business strategy, industry partnerships, and global opportunities.
Strengthening Interdisciplinary Programs
One of Beldona’s key goals is to strengthen joint programs and interdisciplinary teaching and research. He believes that Michigan Tech’s greatest strength lies in the depth of expertise across its colleges. By expanding interdisciplinary programs that combine business with engineering, computing, health, and natural resources, Beldona aims to create a more holistic educational experience.
The upcoming Center for Convergence and Innovation, which will house the College of Business and the College of Computing, presents even greater opportunities for collaboration. Beldona envisions a future where students can benefit from a seamless integration of business and technology, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Fostering Alumni Engagement and Industry Partnerships
Beldona emphasizes the importance of establishing and maintaining close relationships with alumni. He plans to engage alumni as mentors, guest speakers, advisory board members, and internship partners. Strong alumni relationships, he believes, will enrich the student experience and strengthen the future of the College.
Innovation, according to Beldona, doesn’t end with discovery. It reaches its full potential when ideas become tangible products and successful companies. The College of Business brings expertise in entrepreneurship, market analysis, finance, strategy, and commercialization. By working alongside colleagues across the university, Beldona aims to help move promising ideas from the laboratory to the marketplace, creating lasting economic and societal impact.
Beldona’s administrative philosophy is mission-driven, student-centered, and outcome-focused. He believes that faculty and staff success is foundational to student success. His role, he says, is to remove barriers, provide support, and create opportunities for faculty and staff to do their best work.
When he’s not on campus, Beldona enjoys exploring the Keweenaw’s hiking trails with his wife. They have fallen in love with the area’s forests, lakes, and waterfalls. Beldona also enjoys traveling, spending time with his family, and engaging in adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving and bungee jumping. More recently, he has developed an interest in astronomy and looks forward to taking advantage of the Keweenaw’s dark skies to learn more about the night sky.
Beldona expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome he has received from the Michigan Tech community. He is excited to listen, learn, and work alongside faculty, staff, students, alumni, and industry partners as they build on the College’s many strengths and shape its next chapter together.
