School of Business & Economics
Tara Gerstner
Assistant Professor of Business and Marketing
Mon: 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Tue: 12:10-1:10 p.m.
Wed: 12:30-4:30 p.m.
Thr: 12:10-1:10 p.m.
Bio
Dr. Tara Gerstner is a scholar-practitioner and educator specializing in entrepreneurship, business management, and marketing.At Illinois Wesleyan University, Dr. Gerstner created the entrepreneurship major, ranked #1 in a five-state region and #9 nationally by College Factual in 2022. Dr. Gerstner’s research explores entrepreneurship education, problem-based learning, AI in the classroom, and crowdfunding. She has published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at international conferences, and serves as a reviewer for multiple academic journals and conferences in business and entrepreneurship.
Prior to academia, Dr. Gerstner co-founded and led the Peoria Promise Foundation, supporting over 1,300 students and raising $2M for college readiness and workforce development. Her professional experience includes leadership roles in nonprofit, corporate, and entrepreneurial contexts, bringing a practical, real-world perspective to her teaching and mentorship.
Education
- D.B.A. in Business Administration, DePaul University, 2021
- M.B.A., University of Texas at San Antonio, 2004
- B.A. in Business Administration, Illinois Wesleyan University, 2001
Research Interests
- Entrepreneurship Education
- AI & Technology
- Crowdfunding
- Organizational Culture
- Inclusive Teaching
Frequently Taught Classes
- Introduction to Entrepreneurship
- Starting a Business
- Project in Entrepreneurship