THE RALPH W. KETNER SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

The mission and vision of the Ketner School of Business follows the lessons of our namesake, Ralph W. Ketner, the co-founder, President, and CEO of Food Lion (Food Town, est. 1957).

Through determination, creativity, and insight, Ketner was an entrepreneur and business leader that transformed the retail food industry in the Southeast. He understood that success could not be gained simply by the application of “me too” competition using standard business practices. Success requires an understanding and larger comprehension of the current state of business affairs – and the determination to re-think the working rules.

Ketner succeeded in his mission, in the larger service to his community. He saw the work of the businessperson as a service to the community – working hard to do good work and improve the condition of his fellow man. 

The faculty of the Ketner School of Business wish to remain true to the message of Ralph W. Ketner.  To help our students on a path of success, we seek to combine a technical training in business competence with the desire and inspiration to transform the world. 

Our Mission Statement
The mission of the business school is to prepare students for successful personal and professional careers by blending a strong foundation in the liberal arts with the highest quality undergraduate and graduate business education.

We achieve our mission in an environment characterized by personal attention and experiential learning using innovative teaching techniques with the latest technology. We strive to develop our students to become business and professional leaders with a unique combination of academic excellence, individual creativity, and moral character.

Our Vision Statement
We develop successful students who embrace challenges, develop new ideas, and positively influence the world.

For more information on The Ralph W. Ketner School of Business visit: catawba.edu/ksob.