K.C. Chen

K.C. Chen's research focuses on the solution of theoretical and practical problems in finance, something his "Student Investment Fund" class puts to the test every semester. To help them learn the risks and rewards of investing, they actually invest $100,000 from the Craig School of Business endowment and private funds. Chen helps them in making the final investment decisions, but he does not prevent them from learning the hard way. "I allow them to make mistakes," he said. "It's part of the educational costs.”

Regarded as the school’s most productive researcher by the former dean of the Craig School, Chen has gained widespread recognition for his work, including the 2001 Provost's Award for Distinguished Achievement in Research, Scholarship or Creative Activity. Known for teaching corporate financial management and investments, his research has led to 23 refereed journals, four book chapters, three instructional books, 21 refereed proceedings and 37 conference presentations.

A past editor of the International Journal of Business and chair of the Fresno State Department of Finance and Business Law, Chen is currently researching pricing new securities and financial engineering. With colleague John Mahoney, he also won funding to sustain the undergraduate degree option in real estate.