Rate My Professor Dave Wood

Dr. Dave Wood holds the Tommy T. Martin Chair of Insurance in the Department of Economics and Finance at Middle Tennessee State University’s Jennings A. Jones College of Business. A Professor with a Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.), he possesses professional designations as a Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) since 1994 and Certified Risk Manager (CRM). Dr. Wood directs the Risk Management and Insurance B.B.A. program, where he has driven substantial growth since 2016 by transforming the insurance concentration into a standalone major. He teaches courses in finance and economics, contributing to the department's academic offerings. His leadership has elevated the program's profile through strategic initiatives, including student competitions, industry partnerships, and professional development opportunities.

Under Dr. Wood's guidance, MTSU's Risk Management and Insurance program earned the number one national ranking from industry professionals in 2020. He led the MTSU 'Lightning Agency' student team to a national victory in the Selective Insurance competition in 2021. As faculty advisor for the Gamma Iota Sigma insurance student organization, he fosters professional networking and skill-building. Dr. Wood organizes the annual Risk Management & Insurance Career Fair, Tommy T. Martin Chair Golf Tournament for scholarships, and Robert E. Musto Tennessee Insurance Hall of Fame inductions. He has hosted high-profile events, such as the 2021 webinar with international risk management expert Dr. David Hillson on strategies for handling disruptions and moderated panels on risk management topics. Affiliated with the Center for Student Coaching and Success, Dr. Wood received the Distinguished Lecture Fund award alongside colleague Melinda Korzaan for a virtual speaker event. He also leads study abroad programs like Financial and Insurance Markets in London. Through these efforts, Dr. Wood has enhanced career preparation for students, positioning MTSU as a leader in risk management and insurance education.