Article – Page 3 – Mark A Kern, DBA

Operating a Business with a Christian Worldview: Stewardship, Service, and Sustainable Growth

Posted on 28 June 202526 July 2025 by Mark Kern

In today’s fast-paced, profit-driven marketplace, leading with a Christian worldview offers a compass that transcends quarterly results. When our decisions flow from values rooted in Scripture—love, integrity, stewardship, and service—we foster workplaces where people flourish, trust is deepened, and businesses thrive on purpose as much as profit. 1. Stewardship over Ownership Scripture reminds us that…

Faith-Based Leadership: Leading with Purpose Beyond the Bottom Line

Posted on 26 June 202526 July 2025 by Mark Kern

In a world often driven by short-term gains and transactional relationships, faith-based leadership offers a compelling alternative—one rooted in purpose, integrity, and trust. While not exclusive to any particular belief system, it centers on guiding principles shaped by enduring values. At its core, faith-based leadership asks: What anchors your leadership when the path isn’t clear?…

Small Shifts, Big Impact: How Nudge Theory Shapes Smarter Decisions

Posted on 23 June 202526 July 2025 by Mark Kern

Ever found yourself choosing the salad because it was listed first on the menu? Or sticking with a default option just because it was easier? That’s nudge theory at work—subtle design choices that steer our behavior without taking away our freedom to choose. What is Nudge Theory? Popularized by Richard Thaler and Cass Sunstein in…

Letting Go to Lead Forward: The Sunk Cost Fallacy in Leadership

Posted on 23 June 202526 July 2025 by Mark Kern

As leaders, we’re expected to persevere, push through obstacles, and see commitments through. But what happens when that perseverance becomes a liability? Enter the sunk cost fallacy—a cognitive bias where we continue investing time, money, or effort into something simply because we’ve already invested so much. It shows up in clinging to underperforming projects, holding…

Dr. Mark Kern, is a seasoned business administration professional with extensive experience bridging the worlds of federal revenue management and academia.

With a Doctorate of Business Administration from Liberty University, an MBA with a Marketing Concentration, and a BS in Business Administration with an Economics Concentration—both from the University of Kansas—Mark has built a distinguished career that combines practical leadership in large organizations with a passion for teaching and mentoring.

Currently serving in senior roles at the Internal Revenue Service, Mark leads teams dedicated to securing delinquent returns and implementing vital tax enforcement strategies. His expertise spans managing complex projects, mentoring emerging leaders through specialized programs, and driving strategic initiatives that enhance operational efficiency. His leadership experience is further bolstered by previous roles in revenue assurance and security, underscoring a career-long commitment to excellence in public service.

Mark’s multifaceted expertise, rigorous academic background, and real-world leadership make him a unique asset in both industry and higher education. He is continually pursuing innovative research, most recently exploring the dynamics of community engagement and financial stewardship within church organizations.

Whether in the classroom or at the helm of critical projects at the IRS, Mark's career is marked by a commitment to excellence, mentorship, and a strategic vision for the future.

In addition to his federal service, Mark is a dedicated educator. As an Adjunct Instructor at Highland Community College, he has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of business professionals by teaching courses in business fundamentals, accounting, human resources, and personal finance.

His hands-on approach to teaching—characterized by engaging curriculum design, interactive course materials, and individualized support—reflects his belief in empowering students through knowledge.