Business Commons^™

Barriers To Machine Learning Adoption In Regulated Electric Utilities, Donald R. Shiflet Jr.

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Machine learning (ML) technologies have the potential to revolutionize regulated electric utilities by improving operational efficiency, enabling predictive maintenance, and optimizing energy management. Despite these advantages, the adoption of ML in this sector lags other industries due to technical, organizational, and regulatory barriers. This research, grounded in the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework, explores these barriers to uncover actionable solutions for integration. The study identifies key challenges, including explainability, cybersecurity, workforce resistance, and regulatory ambiguity to ML adoption in electric utilities. Utilizing an exploratory qualitative methodology, this approach integrates insights from the literature and industry interviews to rank barriers by frequency, severity, …

"What's A Computer?" Exploring Insurance Agents' Role In Small Business Cyber Insurance Transactions, Dalton A. Crabtree

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This mixed-methods study examined how insurance agents' role identity impacts cyber insurance transactions, addressing gaps in professional practice and academic literature. Small businesses increasingly rely on cyber insurance for protection as cyber risk continues to evolve. The study employed sequential explanatory methodology with 25 interviews across three groups: insurance agents (n=15), corporate cyber insurance professionals (n=5), and small business owners (n=5). Thematic analysis using Katz and Khan's Role Episode Model informed development of the Cyber Insurance Role Identity Scale (CIRIS), tested with 100 agents. Six themes emerged. Key findings reveal that successful cyber insurance transactions require agents to transition from …

Toxic Leadership And Employees' Silence In The Public Sector: The Mediating Role Of Emotional Exhaustion And The Moderating Effect Of Cultural Values, Zubair Ahmed Pirzada, Shoukat Ali Mahar, Naveed Ahmed Mahar

Business Review

This study examines the impact of toxic leadership on employee silence in public healthcare institutions within Sukkur Division, Sindh, Pakistan. Although prior studies have mostly focused on corporate settings, little is known about how toxic leadership shapes employee silence in public healthcare systems of developing countries. This study proposes emotional exhaustion as the mediating variable and cultural value as a moderating variable for the indirect effect. The study employed a cross-sectional and quantitative design, collecting data from 255 employees working in District Health Offices, Basic Health Units, and public hospitals. Validated measurement scales were applied, and data were analyzed using …

Spiritual Awakening For Christ's Church: A Strategic Leadership Approach To Equipping Believers Through Discipleship And Encounter In A Christian University Context, Luke R. Rachels

Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) Capstone Abstracts

Project Overview: This presentation examined the spiritual wilderness as a critical environment for genuine formation in the life of a believer. Drawing from your doctoral capstone, it explored how confronting what you described as “Carnival Cruise Ship Christianity” becomes necessary for believers who desire depth rather than ease, conviction rather than comfort, and spiritual fire rather than passive faith. The session highlighted how practicing the presence of God in hidden seasons produces authentic Pentecostal identity marked by hunger, holiness, and continual encounter with the Holy Spirit.

Project Themes: The central theme of the presentation was that the wilderness is not …

Relational Realities Of Readiness: What Managers Wish Colleges Knew About Business Communication, Karen Mccullough, Laura N. Miller

Applied Business Faculty Publications

This grounded theory study, informed by Communication Accommodation Theory, explores how frontline managers (n = 11) support early-career employees’ communication development. Findings identify three support strategies—structured scaffolding, adaptive leadership, and onboarding for cultural fit—and suggest colleges emphasize verbal and intercultural communication, applied learning, and professional presence. These insights reframe communication readiness as a relational process shaped by emotion, power, and organizational norms. The study calls for stronger collaboration between higher education and employers.

The Role Of Employee Relationship Orientation In The Value Co-Creation – Firm Performance Link, Perry L. Parke, Prachi Gala, Pramod Iyer, Stefan Sleep, Mona Sinha

Faculty Scholarship

Purpose – This paper links employees’ relationship orientation, or their sense that the organization respects their contribution, to value co-creation and overall firm performance. It also measures the effects on innovation and knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach – A total of 301 US product and marketing managers participated in a survey. Measurement and structural models were evaluated using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings – Main findings suggest that increased value co-creation (VCC) activity has a significant effect on employee relationship orientation. This study also finds that employee relationship orientation plays a mediating role in the relationship between VCC and firm …

Beyond Compliance: Investigating The Motivational Power Of Equality, Diversity And Inclusion (Edi) In European Hospitality, Alessandro Ferrazza Dr

ICHRIE Research Reports

The base concept of this study is to explore the interrelationship between Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) practices, employee motivation and performance within the European Hospitality Industry. The research aims to identify the barriers and facilitators that shape motivational synergies stimulating performance outcomes, particularly for underrepresented employee groups. The researcher employed a mixed-methods approach underpinned by a pragmatic interpretivist framework. The findings revealed that there is wide use of discriminatory practices, limited career progression and poor work-life balance which act as significant demotivators (Siu et al., 1997). The study also reconceptualises EDI not merely as a compliance requirement, but as …

Building Spiritual Resilience Through Generational Connections In Military Chapels, Dexter (Dj) Brock

Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) Capstone Abstracts

This presentation, 'Building Spiritual Resilience Through Generational Connections in Military Chapels,' explores how intentional organizational design can turn generational divides into opportunities to strengthen faith communities. This research is based on qualitative ethnographic study of three Protestant chapel services—Traditional, Gospel, and Contemporary—to evaluate how different worship styles and cultural expectations affect engagement among retired military members (Baby Boomers and Gen X) and active-duty service members (Millennials and Gen Z). Using Senge’s (2006) systems thinking, Galbraith’s (2014) Star Model, and Schein and Schein’s (2016) organizational cultural framework, the study identified four essential pillars for building resilient chapels: valuing connections, fostering mentorship, …

2025 Campus Master Plan, Morehead State University. Board Of Regents.

Morehead State Board of Regents Agenda Books and Meeting Minutes

The 2025 Morehead State University Campus Master Plan.

Exploring The Role Of Transformational Leadership In The Health And Growth Of Nazarene Churches In The Africa East Field, Warren W. Rogers Iii

PhD in Organizational Leadership

The transformational leadership model is associated with positive outcomes in the follower experience, as well as in educational, healthcare, and business sectors. There is limited research on the impact of transformational leadership on church health and growth (George & Sreedharan, 2023; Kouni et al., 2018; Rahmatulloh et al., 2023; Tian & Guo, 2024). The purpose of this general qualitative study was to explore how transformational leadership contributes to the health and growth of Nazarene churches in the Africa East Field (comprising Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda). Eight pastoral leaders were interviewed to share their thoughts, perspectives, …

An Exploration Of How Internally Driven Faith Leaders Attribute Outcomes: A Qualitative Case Study., Evelyn Cardenas

PhD in Organizational Leadership

Control is a key factor for understanding behavior, decision-making, and leadership. Whereas locus of control (LOC) explores a person’s belief about how much influence they have over their life (Rotter, 1966), God control explores how much influence a person believes God has over their life (Welton et al., 1996). In the context of faith leaders, the topic of control is nuanced, as two entities cannot be in control simultaneously (Slatinsky et al., 2022). There is ample research on LOC, sense of control, and leadership. There is also extensive research on faith leaders. However, research exploring internally driven individuals and faith …

Women Leaders, Personality Traits, Leadership Self-Efficacy, And Leader Role Occupancy, Lisa M. Bragg

PhD in Organizational Leadership

The purpose of this quantitative, correlational study was to examine the relationships among personality traits (extraversion), leadership self-efficacy (LSE), and leader role occupancy (LRO). Grounded in trait theory and social-cognitive perspectives, the study examined whether (a) LSE related to LRO, (b) personality traits (extraversion) related to LRO, (c) personality traits (extraversion) related to LSE, and (d) LSE moderated the personality trait–LRO relationship. Participants completed the Big Five Inventory (John et al., 1991) and the Multidimensional Leadership Self-Efficacy Scale (Bobbio & Manganelli, 2009). The correlational methodology involved descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, chi-square test of independence, one-way analysis of variance, and Hayes’ …

Followership Theory In The Age Of Artificial Intelligence: A Phenomenological Study Of How The Integration Of Ai Into An Ai-Human Hybrid Cancer Research Team Affects Followership Characteristics, John F. Carrera

PhD in Organizational Leadership

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming part of cancer research teams, helping with data analysis, pattern recognition, and decision support. Although AI changes how work is completed, little is known about how AI changes how followers adapt when AI becomes part of the team. This study examined how AI influences followership characteristics within AIhuman hybrid cancer research teams. A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to explore the lived experiences of nine cancer research professionals who interacted with AI as part of their routine work. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and analyzed through multiple rounds of qualitative coding to find …

Understanding Career Advancement Challenges Of Mid-Level African American Leaders: A Phenomenological Case Study, Adrienne N. Long

PhD in Organizational Leadership

As workplace demographics become increasingly more diverse globally, the curation of organizational inclusion is becoming more dire (Shore et al., 2018). One workforce dynamic, however, has fundamentally remained unchanged: the underrepresentation of African Americans in executive or senior leadership roles (Beckwith et al., 2016). Despite tremendous legislative progress in gender and racial equality, a pervasive gap persists in organizational cultures that fail to intentionally and consistently provide equitable career advancement opportunities for African Americans to attain senior leadership roles. This study employed a phenomenological qualitative research methodology to examine the career advancement challenges faced by mid-level African American leaders and …

Entrepreneurship At The Base Personal Business Plan Assignment, Ouafaa Hmaddi

Open Educational Resources

No abstract provided.

Diffusion Of Innovation Of Port Decarbonization Measures : A Case Study Approach, Clint Rocky Mcculloch, Lucas Fernando Vaquero Roviriego

Port Management Dissertations

The dissertation is a study of how stakeholders diffuse innovation in port decarbonization strategies through a case study approach, with emphasis on the Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) relating to the technical and operational measures in the developing regions. Port, being a critical hub in global supply chains, have to manage the increasing pressure of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in alignment with International Maritime Organization (IMO) 2023 GHG strategy as well as the Paris Agreement. However, there is a gap in empirical research, specifically in non-European regions like South America and the Caribbean, highlighting the need for insights from stakeholders’ …

Leaders: To Be Or Not To Be?, William Chase Dds, Maom

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

A guest editorial by former MDA Journal editor Bill Chase discusses the importance of becoming an effective leader, drawing inspiration from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Dr. Chase highlights key leadership qualities: positive influence, being a role model, competence, charisma, assertiveness, and conflict resolution skills. Successful leaders are transformational, inspiring others and demonstrating competence and confidence. Importantly, they should handle conflicts by initiating dialogue rather than debate, respecting all followers’ opinions. The former editor believes these traits reflect high Emotional Intelligence (EI), which includes self-awareness, motivation, empathy, and social skills, adding that the Michigan Dental Association (MDA) promotes leadership development through its LEAD …

Staff Matters: Maintaining Empathy And Respect When Performance Issues Occur, Jodi Schafer Sphr, Shrm-Scp

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

In her monthly column, human resource expert Jodi Schafer provides guidance on managing employee performance issues and terminations with empathy and respect. She highlights that a practice's reputation is influenced by how it treats people, especially during difficult moments. Strategies include early intervention—documenting specific incidents and giving timely feedback instead of waiting until frustration builds. Leaders should foster open dialogue to offer support, such as training refreshers, before resorting to discipline. Difficult conversations should be held in private with honesty and compassion. If termination is necessary, leaders should "exit with grace," clearly explaining final steps and making a neutral announcement …

An Effective And Organized Mentorship Model: Does It Affect The Emerging Leaders’ Call To Ministry And The Longevity Of The Universal Church?, Linda F. Parker

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

The concept of mentorship is undeniably a fundamental tool for personal and professional growth. Statistics show that mentorship has a vital impact on both individuals and organizations. Could having a strategic mentoring plan in ministry make a meaningful difference for individuals and the Universal Church? This dissertation has explored the effects of mentorship and models based on experiences and strategies from those who identify as ministry leaders. For the Apostle Paul, Christ's life serves as a model and example, as he states, “Follow my example, as I follow Christ” (1 Cor 11:1). These words are the exact phrase that Jesus …

J Mich Dent Assoc October 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, the Journal of the Michigan Dental Association delivers news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It remains the main publication reaching Michigan dentists and is available worldwide through ADACommons. The October 2025 (Volume 107, No. 10) issue of the Journal is published in a digital-only format to provide updates and insights for Michigan's oral health community and MDA members. Print editions will resume in November. The October issue highlights the critical importance of advocacy through the MDA Dental Political Action Committee (PAC) and provides practical, management-focused information …

The New Professional: The Unspoken Costs Of Saying ‘Yes’ To Everything, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Dr. Amrita Patel’s regular New Professional column guides new dentists who often feel pressured to say "yes" all the time to build goodwill and prove themselves. It warns that this mindset can lead to burnout, resentment, and loss of personal time. The outdated belief that professionalism requires constant sacrifice is considered harmful. Boundary-setting is shown as a vital skill, not a character flaw, for a sustainable career. The author offers scripts for politely turning down requests when at capacity. By emphasizing well-being and demonstrating healthy boundaries, new dentists gain respect and foster a more sustainable workplace for everyone, reinforcing that …

News You Need: How Many Of These Ada/Mda Practice Resources Are You Using?

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This October, MDA offers updates and resources including support for human resources, ongoing education, and professional tools. Michigan was selected for the Medicaid Oral Health Workforce Implementation Learning Series to enhance access to care. The MDA launched HERM-E, an AI-powered digital assistant providing 24/7 access to resources and quick answers. Supporting chairside advocacy for community water fluoridation, the News reports that a national survey indicates 81% of Americans support or are neutral about water fluoridation. Applications are now open for the 2026 MDA LEAD Program, and nominations are being accepted for MDA awards and leadership positions. The News column further …

Dentistry And The Law: Sponsoring A Foreign National To Work As A Dentist, Kate Mccarroll Jd

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

To employ a foreign national as a dentist in the U.S., a valid immigration status that permits employment is necessary, usually requiring employer sponsorship. The H-1B visa is the most common option, and requires the individual to hold a bachelor's degree and a state license for patient care. H-1Bs are limited in number, with far more applicants than available visas, and selections are made through a random electronic lottery every March. Exceptions to the cap exist for foreign nationals changing employers and those sponsored by cap-exempt institutions, such as universities, allowing private practices to “borrow” this status. For Canadian or …

Mda Insurance: Review Your Health Insurance Plan For 2026 Open Enrollment, Craig Start

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

MDA Insurance President Craig Start urges members to review their health insurance ahead of the 2026 open enrollment period. Open enrollment is the annual window to change carriers, elect new plans, or add dependents. Dates vary by plan: the MDA Health Plan runs from October 1–November 15, while Medicare Supplements/Advantage/Medigap Plans run from October 15–December 7. Members must assess anticipated health changes, potential costly prescriptions, and financial comfort with higher deductibles versus higher premiums. MDA Insurance assists members in making informed decisions and acts as the member's agent of record to help resolve claims and issues throughout the year.

From Altamont To Astroworld: An Analysis Of Management Issues In Large Scale Music Festivals, Jennifer Morriss

Honors College Theses

The most common problems in music festivals can largely be broken into two categories: risks to the individual and risks on a grand scale. It is the responsibility of event managers to consider how to best keep everyone safe and maintain proper organization. Risks to the individual are often things like substance use and abuse, harm reduction, and sexual assault or harassment. Meanwhile, broad risks tend to be issues of evacuation and emergency management, crowd safety, stampedes, and casualties or violence. It is crucial to reflect on prior common safety and security issues when setting out to produce a large …

Populism And Its Effect On International Business Strategy, Julio Cesar Martinez Suarez

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation investigates the complex relationship between populism and international business strategy, with a particular focus on how populist mobilizations influence firms' location decisions and strategic planning. As populism continues to shape political dynamics globally, it presents significant challenges for businesses operating in or considering entry into markets governed by populist regimes. Utilizing institutional theory, this study examines the distinct political risks associated with populism, including anti-establishment ideology, the weakening of democratic institutions, and a tendency toward short-term, reactive policymaking. The research explores the consequences of these risks for firms, particularly in emerging markets, where populism often exacerbates uncertainty and …

Stress Management Strategies In An Investment Firm: A Managerial Perspective, Cheri C. Nelson

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative study examined how client relationship managers and market supervision managers in the investment industry experienced, interpreted, and managed workplace stress within the context of organizational culture, leadership practices, and available resources. Guided by the job-demands resources (JD-R) model, semistructured interviews were conducted with participants across multiple markets to investigate the interplay between high job demands, leadership behaviors, and employee well-being. Findings indicated that while trusted colleagues and positive leadership behaviors served as protective resources that reduced strain and fostered resilience, negative attitudes, favoritism, and lack of collaboration among colleagues amplified stress. Communication breakdowns, poorly managed organizational change, and …

Apple Inc.: Strategic Audit, Huy Le

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

An audit and analysis of Apple Inc.'s strategy and positioning within its industry. Recommendations were made based on Porter's Five Forces Analysis for Apple to maintain and grow its market share.

2025 Campus Master Plan, Morehead State University. Office Of The President.

Faculty Senate Records

The Morehead State University Campus Master Plan Update for 2025.

2025-10-01 Teacher Education Council Bylaws Revisal, Morehead State University. Faculty Senate., Professional Education Council., Teacher Education Council.

Faculty Senate Records

The revised Teacher Education Council / Professional Education Council bylaws as submitted to the Faculty Senate on October 1, 2025.