Mary Beth Marrs

Mary Beth Marrs is an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Management at the University of Missouri’s College of Business. She holds dual roles as the Harry M. Cornell, Jr. Director of the Cornell Leadership Program and Director of the Heartland Scholars Academy. Previously, she served as Assistant Dean (2003–2007) and Associate Dean (2007–2018) overseeing undergraduate programs and strategic initiatives. She rejoined MU in 2000 as a visiting professor after teaching at Idaho State University.

Educations:

• PhD in Industrial Engineering, University of Missouri (1999)
• MBA, University of Missouri (1995)
• BS in Industrial Engineering, University of Missouri (1987)

Research & Leadership: Her work focuses on organizational behavior and workplace dynamics, particularly aggressive/deviant workplace behavior. Her research has been published in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes and cited in Workwise and USA Today. She pioneered leadership development programs like the Cornell Leadership Program, integrating global corporate trips to Wall Street, Chicago, and international locations. The Heartland Scholars Academy supports first-generation rural students.

Awards & Recognition:

• First MU College of Business recipient of the Distinguished Faculty Award (2021)
• Four-time recipient of the Student-Voted Faculty Member of the Year (2002–2005)
• Inducted into MU’s IMSE Hall of Fame (2012)

Advising & Outreach: Advised Alpha Kappa Psi for 21 years and currently advises ProCLAIM. Active in community engagement, including travel-based learning and family-focused initiatives. Resident of Ashland, Missouri, with her husband Alan and children Justin and Brooklyn, all MU alumni.

Labs & Teams: Oversees the Cornell Leadership Program and Heartland Scholars Academy, collaborating with corporate partners for experiential learning opportunities.