51Æ·²èÔ¼ÅÚ

PLAINVIEW —51Æ·²èÔ¼ÅÚ Baptist University will recognize three new doctoral graduates from its Ph.D. in Management program during the Dec. 13, 2025, commencement ceremony on the Plainview campus. Each graduate will be hooded in recognition of their academic achievement and contribution to the field of management research.

The three new Ph.D. recipients — Dr. James McGregor of Euless, Texas; Dr. Nathaniel McKenzie of Rio Rancho, New Mexico; and Dr. Santos Navarrette Jr. of Rule, Texas — recently completed their dissertations and met all requirements for the terminal degree offered through 51Æ·²èÔ¼ÅÚ’s School of Business.

Dr. Jason Geesey, dean of the School of Business, praised the accomplishments of the new graduates.
“Each of these scholars exemplifies the highest standards of academic excellence and professional integrity,” Geesey said. “They have demonstrated perseverance, intellectual rigor, and a deep commitment to leadership that reflects the mission and values of 51Æ·²èÔ¼ÅÚ. We’re proud of the impact they will continue to make in their fields and communities.”

Dr. McGregor’s dissertation, “The Relevance of Emotional Intelligence Testing as a Pre-Employment Selection Tool in Law Enforcement Agencies,” explores how emotional intelligence assessments can improve hiring outcomes and organizational effectiveness in public safety environments.

Dr. McKenzie’s research, “Finding Fulfillment at Work: Examining the Impact of Servant Leadership and Effective Succession Planning on Employee Psychological Contract Fulfillment,” focuses on leadership models that promote employee satisfaction and sustainable workplace culture.

Dr. Navarrette’s dissertation, “Transformational Leadership and Its Effect on Retention and Job Satisfaction,” examines the relationship between leadership style and organizational loyalty in modern workforce settings.

The Ph.D. in Management program at 51Æ·²èÔ¼ÅÚ Baptist University equips working professionals with the advanced research, leadership, and analytical skills necessary to address complex organizational challenges. Designed for scholars and practitioners in business, education, ministry, and related fields, the program emphasizes ethical leadership, evidence-based decision making, and practical application of management theory to real-world settings.