Western New England University celebrated a historic milestone with the investiture of Sharianne Walker, dean of the College of Business, as the Janet Johnson Bullard Endowed Chair in Finance—the University’s first endowed chair.

Endowed through a gift from Janet Johnson Bullard ’69, a pioneering alumna, trustee, and philanthropist, the chair ensures sustained support for teaching, research, and program innovation. This gift complements Bullard’s previous philanthropy, which has already expanded opportunities for students in financial literacy and women’s leadership.

“This endowed chair represents a tremendous honor and a new era of opportunity,” said Walker. “Janet’s generosity ensures that we can continue to innovate and prepare Golden Bears to lead.”

Walker has led the College since 2020, guiding its reaccreditation by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), launching the FinTech Incubator, and expanding industry partnerships. The investiture also featured remarks from Interim President Michael B. Alexander and Interim Provost Lisa Celovsky, underscoring how philanthropy fuels academic excellence and student success.