SBS Dean Biography

Dr. Tracey J. Riley became interim dean of Suffolk University's Sawyer Business School in July 2026 after serving in several academic leadership roles, most recently as Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs. A professor of accounting and longtime member of the SBS community, she has played a key role in advancing faculty excellence, academic quality, and student success across the business school.
Faculty Portrait of Tracey Riley

Dr. Tracey J. Riley serves as interim dean of Suffolk University's Sawyer Business School (SBS). A respected educator, scholar, and academic leader, Dr. Riley brings more than fifteen years of experience at SBS and a deep commitment to student success, faculty excellence, and innovative business education.

Throughout her career at Suffolk, Dr. Riley has held numerous leadership roles, including Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, Associate Dean of Online Education and Learning Assessment, Director of Graduate Programs in Accounting, and Chair of the Accounting Department. In these positions, she has led major academic initiatives, supported faculty development, advanced accreditation and assessment efforts, and strengthened partnerships with students, alumni, and industry leaders.

An accomplished scholar in accounting, auditing, and financial communication, Dr. Riley's research examines how individuals interpret and respond to financial information and how communication influences judgment and decision-making. Her work has appeared in leading academic journals and has contributed to conversations on accounting education, auditing, and financial reporting.

Teaching remains central to Dr. Riley's professional identity. A recipient of numerous teaching and service awards, she is known for creating engaging learning experiences that connect academic concepts to professional practice. She developed SBS's accounting winter internship program and has championed experiential learning opportunities that help students build confidence, skills, and career readiness.

In addition to her academic leadership and scholarship, Dr. Riley is co-writing a series of children's books with her son. Their stories combine engaging characters with themes of financial literacy, helping young readers explore concepts such as saving, investing, and making thoughtful financial decisions. Through both her teaching and writing, she seeks to make financial knowledge more accessible to learners of all ages.

As interim dean, Dr. Riley is committed to supporting the Sawyer Business School community and advancing its tradition of academic excellence, innovation, and meaningful engagement with the business profession.