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Craig Erwin - Associate Professor, Business Administration

Ph.D., University of Arizona

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Craig ErwinHow did you end up at Eastern?

“I was searching for a small university near or on the East Coast where teaching was a priority. I also wanted a location near metropolitan areas, so my wife could find work.”

Your favorite course to teach?

“I love to teach Principles of Management. It's the first business course that many students take, and I love to see them begin to understand how businesses work and how managers improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency. I have students develop plans for businesses they are interested in. As they flesh out these business plans, they develop a better understanding of how to build and manage organizations and people.”

What are your research interests?

“I am interested in investing and retirement. I am particularly interested in the financial challenges women face before and during retirement.” 

What do you like best about teaching at Eastern?

“We have regular events at which current students meet alumni and share information. It is wonderful to see alumni, who were in my classes a few years ago, share wisdom and guidance with current students. Plus, it is very rewarding to hear alumni and students describe the benefits of these exchanges.”

What is your teaching philosophy?

“I believe students haven't learned much if they cannot apply what they have learned. I require them to write business plans or conduct research to put what they have learned into practice. Students are more likely to understand how the pieces fit together if they have had to create and manipulate the pieces.”

I have students develop plans for businesses they are interested in. As they flesh out these business plans, they develop a better understanding of how to build and manage organizations and people.


Craig Erwin teaching in front of class

Memorable moments at Eastern?

“Two life-changing events at Eastern were the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and the period when COVID-19 disrupted our lives severely. In the aftermath of 9/11 and throughout the COVID era, Eastern students, faculty and staff were shaken and tested, but we pulled together and persevered and kept Eastern working to make the University and the world a better place. Both events helped me appreciate the value of a caring, committed community.”

Career advice to students?

“One thing that employers like most about Eastern graduates is that they are not afraid to work hard. Almost all Eastern students work while in school and many work more than one job, so they tend to have a good work ethic, which can serve them well after graduation. I advise students to leverage that strength, being willing to take on new projects and responsibilities.”

Life advice for alumni

“I push students to stay flexible. Few alumni say they followed a linear, predictable career path. They stayed open to opportunities and remained willing to learn. Students need a broader set of skills than ever before, and they must be willing to use them in new and varied ways. I also advise students to start saving and investing as early as possible because retirement will sneak up on them.”