When James Kahler took the reign as executive director of the ASU Master of Business Administration Sports Business Program, his goals for students went beyond classroom instruction.
"I can quickly help them in search for employment," Kahler said. "It is important to see their strengths and put them in a place to succeed."
Kahler previously worked with the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing but always saw teaching in his outlook.
"I've always had a vision of returning to the classroom," Kahler said. "This may be the best position in the country of its kind."
The ASU MBA Sports Business Program is only in its third year of existence, but Kahler said it could quickly become the top school of its kind in the nation.
"This will become the premier program," he said. "I wouldn't have the job otherwise."
According to Dennis Hoffman, associate dean of the ASU MBA daytime program, Kahler was hired to make an immediate impact on the University.
"Our challenge is to demonstrate that we are producing students of the highest quality with a passion for the sport," Hoffman said. "Kahler's presence will help us with that message."
Outside of guest lecturing for Ohio University, Kahler has had minimal teaching experience.
Despite that fact, marketing department chair Michael Mokwa said Kahler can quickly adapt to teaching.
"I think it's a challenge for him but he's got the motivation to succeed," Mokwa said. "He has been looked at in the industry as being an exceptional mentor."
Kahler said he will be able to make the switch with no problems.
"I'm not worried about it at all," he said. "The skills transfer real well. I bring over 20 years of practiced experience in the industry."
Sean Pyatt, a sports management graduate said Kahler's presence has already had an influence on the sports business program.
"He gave us validity to lead a position as well regarded as he is," said Pyatt. "Where we want to be in 20 years is where he is now."
Reach the reporter at andrew.bernick@asu.edu.
