Dr. Onur Arugaslan: Faculty Service Award Recipient

Three students standing with Dr. Arugaslan with stock ticker overheadFrom his impactful research, to his commitment to advancing Western Michigan University, the Haworth College of Business, and its finance and personal financial planning programs—there are plenty of reasons to celebrate Dr. Onur Arugaslan, professor of finance and director of the personal financial planning program. But perhaps none are more important than his dedication to students. For these reasons and more, Onur was recognized this year with the college’s Faculty Service Award.

Every day since joining the faculty in 2002, Onur has worked tirelessly to provide the best curriculum and experiential learning opportunities possible for business students. His approach is hands-on, engaging students in case competitions, financial coaching, internships and professional experiences that provide a well-rounded education in finance and financial planning.

As director of the personal financial planning program and founding co-director of the Sanford Center for Financial Planning and Wellness, Onur completes the processes for the Certified Financial Planner Board Registered Program Renewal each year, ensuring that WMU students have a competitive edge in obtaining careers in the industry. He meets regularly with all personal financial planning majors and networks with employers to involve them with the program. Additionally, Onur finalized the syllabi for two new personal finance courses, which will be offered in fall 2020. The result: WMU students pass the CFP exam at a rate 27.5% higher than the national average.

Beyond teaching and mentoring students, Onur is involved with a number of committees dedicated to advancing the college and University. He is also an avid researcher and contributes to the academic world of finance by reviewing papers for a number of esteemed journals. 

“Onur has provided extensive service to the department, college, University, the academic community and the Kalamazoo community at large,” says Dr. Jim DeMello, chair of the Department of Finance and Commercial Law. “His efforts are deserving of the Faculty Service Award!”

“I feel very fortunate to be a part of the business college, where we make a difference in our students’ lives every day,” Onur says. “I cannot think of a more satisfying career.”