Brett H. Neely, Jr.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business
“Before I enrolled in his class, I struggled with many aspects of my college experience. I found it difficult to apply myself and had trouble finding the connection between what I learned and how I would use it in my real life. After taking this class with Brett, my perspective flipped completely. His teaching style along with his enthusiasm for the content kept me engaged and even excited to go to class where I was reluctant in the past. Brett told us about a volunteer opportunity called Camp Kesem, an organization/summer camp for children affected by cancer which he is a part of. I decided to sign up as a counselor for the next session. I loved the experience and have been a member since then. In short, Brett has had a huge impact on my life both in college and outside.” – Devon Ackles
Brett Neely, 34, is an Assistant Professor of Management in the College of Business at The University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
His research focuses on leadership and interpersonal dynamics at work, particularly the ways in which leaders facilitate and empower positive outcomes for employees. His research has been published in Academy of Management Journal, Journal of Applied Psychology, Journal of Management, and Leadership Quarterly.
He has previously won awards for his research and teaching and is proud to have served on local non-profit boards and advised student organizations.
BACKGROUND
At current institution since what year? Fall 2020
Education: B.S. – UCLA; PhD – Pennsylvania State University
List of Undergraduate courses you teach: Organizational Behavior
TELL US ABOUT LIFE AS A BUSINESS SCHOOL PROFESSOR
I knew I wanted to be a business school professor when … I really wanted a career that would let me work to understand what makes people tick, especially in ways that can improve their lives and well-being. I became interested in research and teaching in college and after some twists and turns I realized that being a professor studying Organizational Behavior was a career path where I could pursue many of my interests all at once.
What are you currently researching and what is the most significant discovery you’ve made from it?
My research has mostly been about leadership, but lately I’ve been extending that into work on topics around the ways that work can improve peoples’ lives. For example, right now I’m working on a project examining how people with a criminal record can increase their chances of getting a job by disclosing certain information about their backgrounds, reducing harmful stereotypes, gaining support, and improving their job prospects. In another project, we examine the impact of pay gaps between different levels within organizations on employee well-being. Together, this work highlights how thoughtfully designed workplace practices can support both individual well-being and broader social outcomes.
If I weren’t a business school professor, I’d be … a therapist, that’s what I originally wanted to do before I found this field!
What do you think makes you stand out as a professor? I try to tailor my courses to my current group of students – so incorporating examples, activities, assignments, and guest speakers that are relevant to students’ interest and goals. Beyond that, I ask my students to be kind – to themselves, to each other, and to me – and I try to reciprocate that with them.
One word that describes my first time teaching: Energizing
Here’s what I wish someone would’ve told me about being a business school professor: There are so many different paths to making impact – in the research we do, our teaching, and the ways we work with students and colleagues. It has taken me some time to realize how many paths to “success” there are and I’m still working to figure out mine. I’ve been fortunate to have many great mentors along the way, which has reinforced the importance of having people who support you and care about you (and doing the same for others).
Professor I most admire and why: I’m fortunate to have trained and collaborated with great people so I’m hesitant to name just one but if I must, I’d go with my advisor Sam Hunter. I’m beyond grateful for his support across the many ups and downs I’ve faced since I first started working with him in 2013 and he is a relentless advocate for his trainees while making real impact through his work.
TEACHING BUSINESS SCHOOL STUDENTS
What do you enjoy most about teaching business students? Business students tend to be very interested in the practical implications of what they are learning. I think Organizational Behavior lends itself well to that, so it’s a fun challenge to find ways for them to apply what we’re learning about to their past, present, and future jobs.
What is most challenging? Finding ways to keep my content (and instructional methods) updated and relevant with the rapid changes occurring in the world.
In one word, describe your favorite type of student: Engaged
In one word, describe your least favorite type of student: Disengaged?
When it comes to grading, I think students would describe me as: Reasonable
LIFE OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
What are your hobbies? I’m a huge soccer (especially Arsenal) fan, and love watching sports in general. I’ve also really grown to enjoy cooking over the last few years. That said, the hobby I like to spend the most time on is hanging out with my wife, Giorgia, and our dog, Marko.
How will you spend your summer? Hopefully traveling to spend time with friends and family, working on research, teaching in our MBA program, and spending some time outside after a cold Nebraska winter (and likely Spring).
Favorite place(s) to vacation: Given how far we are from the coasts in Nebraska, definitely somewhere with a beach.
Favorite book(s): Nudge; Give and Take; Game of Thrones
What is currently your favorite movie and/or show and what is it about the film or program that you enjoy so much? Great British Bake Off is a favorite in our house, but I also love comedies that are easy to have on in the background and leave you feeling good when you watch them – shows like The Office, Brooklyn 99, and Bob’s Burgers.
What is your favorite type of music or artist(s) and why? We were recently gifted (thanks A&T) a record player, and my mom (thanks mom) gave us some records from the 70’s and 80’s which have been fun to listen through. I also listen to a lot of pop-punk from my middle school days while I’m driving.
THOUGHTS AND REFLECTIONS
If I had my way, the business school of the future would have much more of this … emphasis on how businesses (and the people in them) can make a positive impact.
In my opinion, companies and organizations today need to do a better job at … Finding ways to support employee well-being and show compassion and care for them when they face challenging circumstances.
I’m grateful for … the support of so many people who have helped me to get to where I am and who will help me face whatever challenges come next.
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