Former Business Professor Tony Akel Dies

Anthony M. Akel, former director of international business programs and professor of management at the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University, passed away Nov. 8, 2007 at the age of 63. Dr. Akel began his career at C.W. Post in 1980 and taught for almost two decades. Most recently Dr. Akel was dean of the School of Business Administration at Holy Family University in Philadelphia.

An expert in organization development, strategic planning and policy formation, Dr. Akel earned his doctorate from Northwestern University and a post-doctorate certificate in Education Management from Harvard University. Dr. Akel was involved with several government- and industry-sponsored research projects during his career, including projects with the National Science Foundation. His work was published in dozens of professional journals, and he co-authored two books.

"As the Director of International Programs he brought to Long Island University new and innovative programs for our international students,” said Dr. Baichun Xiao, chairman of the Department of Management in the School of Business, College of Management. “Dr. Akel was responsible for molding this department into what it is today. He was a loving and caring mentor for many new faculty members starting out here at Long Island University and a good friend to everyone."

Dr. Akel is survived by his wife, Catherine, children, Tommy and Catherine Mary, his son-in-law Kevin and grandson, Aidan.

Posted: December 6, 2007