Dr. Beverley Hollingsworth Leads Fitchburg State University Online MBA Programs by Putting Students First

In her role as MBA Program Chair at Fitchburg State University, Dr. Beverley Hollingsworth is guided by a straightforward philosophy that embodies her commitment to students and their success. 

“I would describe myself as a servant leader — and I say that sincerely, not as a buzzword,” Dr. Hollingsworth explained.  

“This program doesn’t belong to any one of us; it belongs to the university, its partners, and most importantly, its students. They are our immediate customers. Every decision flows from that.” 

This perspective has helped shape the growth of Fitchburg State online MBA programs. Under Dr. Hollingsworth’s leadership, the University expanded its offerings to incorporate MBA student feedback and better reflect what employers increasingly value in the marketplace. 

“Working with Risepoint, we developed additional concentrations until we reached eight, each one responding to what students were actually looking for,” she said. MBA options in high-growth career fields include Accounting, Business Analytics Management, Finance, Healthcare Management, Human Resources Management, Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management. 

Her dedication to creating quality graduate degrees that meet student needs reflects the family traditions that shaped her and ultimately led her to Fitchburg State after a business career in taxation. “I come from a long line of educators,” she shared. “It’s in my blood, and I just can’t refuse.” 

She believes it’s just as important for MBA instructors to be highly qualified, with industry experience and a focus on students’ long-term success. “I look for good faculty who can teach my students well, and in doing so, perhaps inspire them to become good leaders themselves,” she said. 

Her attention to every detail extends to the professional internship, another defining aspect of the program. It prepares graduates to handle new challenges with confidence and make an immediate impact in business. 

“What I’ve insisted on is quality. I review every job description before approving it. I won’t sign off on something that doesn’t reflect the level of work appropriate for an MBA student,” Dr. Hollingsworth advised. “Since implementing that standard, every student has come away with a role at the management level.” 

Dr. Hollingsworth also points to engagement and collaboration as hallmarks of the Fitchburg State MBA programs, as students and faculty from diverse backgrounds come together to create a supportive learning community online.  

“Different people from different regions and cultures bring different experiences and perspectives, and that enriches every discussion,” she said, noting that each course represents a new opportunity to share knowledge with peers. 

“In our seven-week discussion boards, some students bring years of professional experience, others are learning from that experience for the first time. They teach each other,” she said. “I don’t know how the world would function without that exchange. It’s remarkable.” 

Seeing the success of the MBA program expansion, Dr. Hollingsworth is gratified that her efforts have paid off for students. However, she remains focused on the work ahead. “I believe all people want to learn and to better themselves,” she said, committed to helping others achieve that goal through education every day.  

Prepare for the Future of Business with an Online MBA from Fitchburg State

Build a dynamic leadership skillset for the rapid evolution of business with a Fitchburg State University online MBA program accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).  

Choose from concentrations in Accounting, Business Analytics Management, Finance, Healthcare Management, Human Resources Management, Management, Marketing, and Supply Chain Management to align your degree with your career goals.  

Designed for working professionals, Fitchburg State online MBA programs offer the flexibility to balance graduate study with your everyday responsibilities. With streamlined admissions, no GMAT required, and six start dates each year, you can earn your MBA in as few as 12 months.  

Learn more about Fitchburg State online MBA programs.