Wine Business Institute Reunites with Former Executive Director

A well-known figure is being welcomed back to the Wine Business Institute (WBI) at Sonoma State University.

It was announced on Tuesday that Linda Nowak, Ph.D., will serve as the interim executive director.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Nowak rejoin Sonoma State University,” stated Dean Elisabeth Wade from the College of Science, Technology and Business. “Her leadership and expertise will be crucial as we strive to enhance WBI’s programs and fulfill its mission of providing innovative education and research for the wine industry.”

“I’m thrilled to be back at the WBI and Sonoma State University,” Nowak expressed. “I eagerly anticipate collaborating with the faculty, staff, and Board to further WBI’s position as a frontrunner in wine business education and research that supports the development of future industry professionals,” she added.

Nowak previously held this position from 2007 to 2010, during which she also worked as a marketing professor at the university. She takes over from Ray Johnson, who stepped down as executive director in May.

She obtained a Ph.D. in business administration with a focus on marketing and a minor in international business from Saint Louis University. Her MBA was awarded by Mercer University, and she completed her Bachelor of Science at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

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