Wednesday, March 18, 2026
The DEC Network Award recognizes the UNT Dallas School of Business
UNT Dallas has been named “University of the Year” by The DEC Network (Dallas Entrepreneur Center), a business and entrepreneurship nonprofit.
Specifically, The DEC Network honor cited the UNT Dallas School of Business, which offers 11 undergraduate programs, 14 certificates and minors, and two graduate programs. The School recently announced
its new Center for Technology, Innovation, Development and Entrepreneurship, known
as TIDE.
UNT Dallas's School of Business Dean, Dr. Jason Garrett, presents an award to a student at the school's Annual Spring Gala
“UNT Dallas is proud to receive this recognition from the DEC Network and looks forward to additional collaboration with them,” said Dr. Jason Garrett, Dean of the University of North Texas at Dallas School of Business. “We are committed to partnering with the thriving Dallas business community and ensuring our students are career-ready for the rapidly changing workforce.”
The DEC Network announced the award during its annual State of Entrepreneurship event
on January 29, 2026, at the SMU Collins Center in Dallas. UNT Dallas was among 15
award winners, all community-nominated and community-voted.
UNT Dallas School of Business graduate Melissa Fogerson found an opportunity at a local auto dealership
“State of Entrepreneurship brings The DEC Network’s mission to life by creating space for our community to discover new ideas, enable meaningful connections, and create opportunities for entrepreneurs across North Texas,” said Bill Chinn, The DEC Network CEO.
The School of Business is the fastest growing School at UNT Dallas. TIDE aims to accelerate
that growth by attracting students who want to ride the wave of innovation in technology
and business. “TIDE is a game changer,” said Dr. Warren von Eschenbach, UNT Dallas
President. “It will have the unique ability to foster progress by linking our academic
expertise with business and industry needs.”
Hiawatha Williams (left), founder of the Williams Chicken Restaurant chain, speaks at a UNT Dallas School of Business Franchise Week Event
TIDE will bridge theory and practice through a curriculum that educates and trains students through a “hub of knowledge.” It is part of the university’s “Classroom to Career” initiative focused on providing students hands-on, real-world experience along with “power skills” such as communication, critical thinking and teamwork.
“Your best future employees are coming from UNT Dallas,” said Dr. Garrett. “The DEC Network “University of the Year” award acknowledges our dedication to providing academic rigor and experiential education to our students.”
The UNT Dallas School of Business plans to add a cybersecurity major in the Fall 2026 semester, pending approval by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, as announced at the UNT System Board of Regents meeting on February 19, 2026.
From UNT Dallas – Featured News