Bernard M. and Ruth R. Bass Center for Leadership Studies

In 1987, Bernard Bass, distinguished professor emeritus in Binghamton University's School of Management, envisioned establishing a leadership center dedicated to the discovery and verification of leadership research.

The Bernard M. and Ruth R. Bass Center for Leadership Studies at Binghamton University was created as a result of this vision, and has been at the forefront of innovative leadership research for over three decades. Through the theoretical integration of multiple levels of analysis in the areas of strategic leadership, leadership and team decision making, and creatively leading for innovation, the Bass Center for Leadership Studies continues to define the future of leadership research and practice.

Levels of Analysis, WABA, and DETECT

Access at this link.

Learning and research opportunities

The University offers a leadership and consulting concentration for undergraduate students in the School of Management. MBA and Management PhD students have the opportunity to concentrate coursework in areas of leadership & organizational science. Many faculty affiliated with the Bass Center for Leadership Studies serve as instructors, advisors and mentors in these concentration areas.

Research program with undergraduate psychology students

The Bass Center for Leadership Studies and Harpur College Psychology Department offer a joint program in which undergraduate psychology students can collaborate on current projects with School of Management faculty while receiving academic credit from the psychology department.

Independent study

Leadership & organizational science faculty may have independent research opportunities throughout the year. Students interested should consult with individual faculty members if they are interested in researching for course credit. There are two- and four-credit independent research opportunities offered for undergraduate and graduate students.  

Distinguished Speaker Series

To celebrate the lifelong contributions that Dr. Bernard Bass has made not only to Binghamton University, but also to the field of leadership, the Bass Center for Leadership Studies, with generous support from Ruth Bass, hosts the annual Bass Speaker Series every fall.

Past speakers

  • 2023: George Banks (The University of North Carolina at Charlotte)
  • 2022: Roseanne Foti (Virginia Tech University)
  • 2019: David Day (Claremont McKenna College)
  • 2018: John Antonakis (University of Lausanne, Switzerland)
  • 2017: Francis Yammarino (Binghamton University, SUNY)
  • 2016: Shane Connelly (University of Oklahoma)
  • 2015: Steven Markham (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University)
  • 2014: Wayne Cascio (University of Colorado Denver)
  • 2013: Fred Dansereau (University at Buffalo, SUNY)
  • 2012: Terri Scandura (University of Miami)
  • 2011: Leanne Atwater (University of Houston)
  • 2010: Michael Mumford (University of Oklahoma)
  • 2009: Chet Schriesheim (University of Miami)
  • 2008: Dov Eden (Tel Aviv University)