University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics
University of Kentucky’s Gratton College Dean Retires
After nearly eight years at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton College of Business and Economics – and more than three decades in higher education – Dean Simon Sheather is retiring. During his tenure, the college has evolved profoundly under his leadership.
“Since joining UK on July 1, 2018, as the eighth dean of Gatton College, Sheather has led a period of remarkable growth and innovation – expanding enrollment, strengthening academic programs, elevating the college’s national reputation and positioning it for long-term success,” says writer Lindsey Piercy on the university’s website.
DRIVING INNOVATION FROM DAY ONE
Sheather arrived at UK with the seasoned confidence of someone who had spent a lifetime in academia. Within his first year, he saw where the market was heading and he introduced a real‑time online MBA. Soon after, he launched the business analytics minor, which quickly became one of the college’s most popular programs.
“Serving as dean of Gatton College has been the pinnacle of my leadership career and one of the greatest honors of my professional life,” says Sheather.
His leadership has a massive impact which is also reflected in enrollment at the business school. Their student population climbed from 3,809 students in 2018 to nearly 6,000 by 2025, with the freshman class more than doubling.
The academic landscape during Gatton’s tenure has been reshaped with programs that mirrored what students need. More than anything, today’s students want experiences that translate directly into career readiness. A good 77% of students say they enrolled in higher education to obtain a job, according to Cengage.
Under Sheather’s leadership, Gatton’s rankings improved as well. The MBA program climbed from No. 86 to No. 53 overall, and No. 27 among public institutions which has been the highest ranking in its history.
“Dr. Sheather’s impact on UK is both profound and far‑reaching… Just as important, however, is the personal legacy he leaves behind: the mentorship, the steady leadership and the deep care for this community,” shares UK President Eli Capilouto.
STRENGTHENING THE HEART OF GATTON
During his time at the college, Sheather also invested deeply in people. He strengthened faculty excellence, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and built industry partnerships that translated directly into plenty of career opportunities for students.
“Together, we have strengthened Gatton’s culture, expanded opportunities for our students, increased enrollment and positioned the college for an exciting future,” reflects Sheather.
In retirement, Sheather is preparing to return home to Melbourne, Australia. He leaves Gatton as a college that is more connected, competitive, and more attuned to the demands of the current data‑driven world.
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