Mark Hearn

Mark Hearn is a tenured Full Professor and Associate Dean of the College of Business and Industry at Jacksonville State University (JSU), where he has served since 1989. Previously Head of the Department of Management and Marketing, he holds administrative leadership within JSU's AACSB-accredited business college—one of the top 5% globally.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Business Administration, University of Arkansas
• MBA, University of North Alabama
• B.S., University of North Alabama

Research centers on community outreach and regional economic conditions surrounding JSU, with significant contributions to questionnaire design and comparative analysis of online versus face-to-face evaluation. His work bridges academic theory with practical community development, emphasizing university-industry partnerships and educational assessment innovation.

Publication trends reveal evolving interdisciplinary scholarship: recent work (2012-2017) focuses on virtual collaboration and community engagement, while earlier research (1988-2007) spans retirement planning gender disparities, international business case studies, and employment law communication. This trajectory demonstrates consistent application of business principles to societal challenges.

No specific scientific awards are documented in available materials.

As an educator, Dr. Hearn teaches Business Communications, Organizational Behavior, and International Management with a philosophy emphasizing real-world readiness: "I feel that it is my task to prepare our students for that future employer that will never understand any excuse or forgive any failure." His community service includes the Alabama Military Stability Foundation, Calhoun County Military Affairs Committee, Berman Museum Board, and Chamber of Commerce—reflecting deep regional engagement.

While not leading a formal laboratory, he actively collaborates with JSU's Center for Economic Development and Center for Manufacturing Support, contributing to workforce development and industrial partnerships that serve Northeast Alabama's economic ecosystem.