Pamela Thomas: A UCF Researcher Intertwined with Family, Mentorship, and Advocacy
Pamela Thomas, a researcher at the University of Central Florida (UCF), embodies the idea that professional pursuits are deeply connected to personal experiences, relationships, and a sense of responsibility. Her work is not isolated but integrated with her roles as a family member, mentor, and advocate. UCF remains an integral part of her identity.
The Interwoven Nature of Research and Life
Thomas's experience with a caricature generated by ChatGPT highlighted the interconnectedness of her professional and personal life. The AI accurately portrayed her work alongside her family, underscoring the influence of lived experiences and relationships on her research, mentorship, and advocacy. This depiction serves as a reminder that professional endeavors are not conducted in a vacuum but are shaped by the individual's background and commitments.
Research Focus and the DBA Program
Thomas's research interests lie in understanding factors that hinder business profit maximization and operational efficiency, as well as identifying conditions that foster entrepreneurial success. This aligns with the goals of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, which addresses the gap between business practitioners and scholars.
The DBA program at Warrington, in response to a conundrum affecting the business world, aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice by integrating business practices and applied research to address current issues and develop actionable solutions. The program is designed for seasoned professionals seeking to enhance their strategic decision-making skills or transition to academia.
Curriculum and Structure
The DBA program is structured to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, with on-campus residencies held over immersive weekends. The curriculum includes quantitative courses. Students benefit from interactions with faculty and collaboration with classmates.
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Benefits of the DBA Program
The Warrington DBA program offers several benefits:
- For military personnel: It aids in career advancement or transition to civilian life.
- For Florida state employees: A tuition discount is available for eligible employees.
- Networking: Graduates gain access to a powerful network of alumni and faculty.
DBA vs. Ph.D.
The DBA program differs from a Ph.D. program in its focus and target audience. DBA candidates typically have extensive experience in management or academia and aim to apply research to practical business problems. Ph.D. candidates, on the other hand, focus on developing new business theories.
Dissertation and Research Supervision
The DBA program culminates in a dissertation, which allows students to delve into a topic related to business operations, processes, markets, or trends. Students receive guidance from faculty members throughout the research process.
Impact and Recognition
Thomas's research and dedication have earned her recognition within the UCF community. The University of Central Florida honored faculty and staff.
Examples of Research Topics
The DBA program encourages research into a wide range of business-related topics, including:
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- Data analytics in accounting
- Institutional investor behavior in index funds
- Private equity real estate fund performance
- Embezzlement crimes
- The impact of natural disasters on entrepreneurship
- The economic impact of airport management
Examples of research conducted by faculty and students:
- Tietz, W., Cainas, J.M., & Miller-Nobles, T.L. (2019). Add data analytics to intro accounting.
- Sanchez, E., & Oh, J. (2020). The unexpected and stickiness behavior of institutional investors in index funds.
- Arnold, T.R., Ling, D.C., & Naranjo, A. (2021). Private equity real estate fund performance: A comparison to REITS and open-ended core funds.
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