Lewis Hershey

Dr. Lewis Hershey serves as Professor of Marketing at Eastern Michigan University, where he directs the EMU Sales Center and co-directs the Disability Planning Center with Annemarie Kelly from the College of Health and Human Services. His academic career spans multiple institutions across North Carolina, Louisiana, Missouri, and Georgia, complemented by industry experience as a former financial planner and business owner who pioneered computer-based lecturing systems for business education.

Education

• Ph.D. from Louisiana State University
• M.A. and B.A. from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Research Interests

Dr. Hershey's scholarly work spans financial planning, marketing theory, management theory, and communications disciplines including narrative criticism and intercultural communication. Since 2015, his research has focused intensely on disability financial planning, examining ABLE accounts, special needs trusts, guardianship laws, and retirement planning solutions for individuals with disabilities. This interdisciplinary work bridges finance, law, and social policy to address critical gaps in financial services for vulnerable populations.

Publication Trends

His 15 most recent publications (2015-2024) reveal a concentrated evolution toward disability financial planning, with 14 of 15 articles addressing specialized aspects like guardianship coordination, ABLE account implementation, and pandemic impacts on disability financial health. Published primarily in the Journal of Financial Service Professionals, these works demonstrate rigorous analysis of state laws, tax strategies, and practical frameworks that directly inform financial planners serving clients with disabilities.

Scientific Awards

• First place, Kenneth Black Jr., Journal Author Award 2024
• Second place, Kenneth Black Jr., Journal Author Award 2023
• Second place, Kenneth Black Jr., Journal Author Award 2019
• First place, Kenneth Black Jr., Journal Author Award 2017

Professional Contributions

Beyond research, Dr. Hershey developed over fifty computer-based lecture systems used by 3+ million business students, covering disciplines from marketing principles to engineering materials. His industry credentials include Series 7, 63, and 65 licenses plus specialized insurance certifications. He actively contributes to The Society of Financial Service Professionals, American Marketing Association, and Society for Marketing Advances while teaching courses ranging from Marketing Principles to Special Topics in Marketing Research.

Centers and Leadership

Through the Disability Planning Center, Dr. Hershey leads interdisciplinary collaboration between business and health sciences to advance evidence-based financial planning practices. The EMU Sales Center under his direction provides practical sales training and industry partnerships, reflecting his commitment to bridging academic theory and professional application.