John Thomas is dean of the School of Business and Management and Bashir Hasso Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship at La Sierra University in Riverside, Calif. A creative thinker committed to integrity, compassion, and social entrepreneurship, Thomas has led La Sierra University's business school in radically redefining its mission to incorporate a focus on global service and entrepreneurial creativity, and in identifying distinctive market niches ideally suited to its traditions, commitments, and capacities. He is an effective administrator, teacher, and scholar who has spearheaded ambitious fundraising efforts and championed innovative academic and co-curricular programs. Thomas holds a doctorate in political economy and master’s degrees in marketing, finance, and political economy. A member of La Sierra University's business faculty since 1988, he has taught courses in entrepreneurship, management, economics, and finance, and has received numerous teaching awards.