Odette School of Business Dean Dr. Josianne Marsan joins Beyond 2 Bridges podcast hosts Matthew Dumouchel (left) and Ryan Donally (MBA ’14), president and CEO of the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce (right), for a conversation on regional collaboration and innovation. (BEYOND 2 BRIDGES/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Dr. Josianne Marsan has a three-word plan for the Odette School of Business: Rise. Connect. Create.
The Odette dean recently joined the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce's Beyond 2 Bridges podcast — co-hosted by University of Windsor alumnus Ryan Donally (MBA '14) and Matthew Dumouchel — to talk about what that vision means for the school and the region.
Since beginning her term on July 1, 2025, Marsan has focused on building deeper connections with students, faculty and the wider business community.
She described the community's reception as immediate and warm, noting Windsor's diversity and openness felt familiar from her years in Montreal.
“Stakeholders loved this vision — and once I arrived, they said, ‘We want that vision implemented.’ Students are even printing it on their club shirts,” she said during the podcast.
A key priority for Marsan is expanding opportunities for collaboration between Odette researchers and industry partners.
Some research explains the past so that we learn from it. Other research helps businesses envision the future,” she said, emphasizing her goal of creating more spaces where scholars and the business community can work together.
She also shared optimism for the region’s long-term outlook, highlighting its talent, ideas and strategic advantages.
“We have everything we need to become an outstanding region — great people, strong ideas, strategic location,” said Marsan. “If we combine our strengths, we’ll rise, connect and create the future we envision.”
Reflecting on her own journey as the first woman to serve as dean of the Odette School of Business, Marsan spoke about the values instilled during her upbringing in subsidized housing and how they guide her commitment to supporting learners from diverse backgrounds.
“Being a role model for women, first-generation scholars, or students from low-income families means a lot to me,” she said.