Meet The Dean
T. Russell Crook, PhD
E. j. Ourso Distinguished Professor of Business and dean endowed chair
T. Russell Crook was appointed dean of the LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business, Louisiana’s
flagship business college, in summer 2025. In this role, he leads a vibrant academic
community dedicated to educating current and future business leaders, producing impactful
research, and strengthening the state’s economy. As dean, Crook guides the college’s
strategic direction, champion innovation in business education, and foster connections
across industry, government, and academia to expand the college’s reach.
An award-winning educator and researcher, Crook has published over 40 articles in
the fields of strategy and entrepreneurship. His teaching interests include strategic
planning and implementation, and he frequently collaborates with organizational leaders
to shape their strategies and execute on their long-term goals. He is widely recognized
for his ability to bridge academic theory with real-world business challenges.
Prior to joining LSU, Crook held several faculty and leadership roles at the University of Tennessee, including First Horizon Foundation Distinguished Business Professor, Cheryl Massingale Business Faculty Scholar, and Head of the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship. His contributions to teaching, service, and academic leadership have been recognized through awards such as the L.R. Hesler Award for Teaching and Service, the Martin & Carol Robinson Excellence in Teaching, Research, and Service Award, and the Bank of America Faculty Leadership Award. He also served as president of the Southern Management Association, supporting professional development and scholarship in the management field.
Before entering academia, Crook worked for American Airlines, US Airways, and IBM in roles focused on strategic planning and global procurement. He earned his PhD in strategic management from Florida State University. Outside of his professional life, Crook is a dedicated family man, loves cooking, and plays less-than-average golf.
Past E. J. Ourso College of Business Deans
Jared J. Llorens (2020-2025)
Under the leadership of Dean Llorens, the college established the Office of Graduate Business Programs and the Center for Economics, Business & Policy Research. It also launched a new Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics program. Furthermore, the Flores MBA Program earned STEM Designation for all its tracks.
Richard D. White Jr. (2012-2020)
Under Dean White's leadership, the college established the Energy Program, Professional Sales Institute, Office of Business Student Success, and the Bachelor of Science in the Entrepreneurship program. The college was also reaccredited by AACSB.
Eli Jones (2008-2012)
During Dean Jones' tenure, the college constructed and opened a state-of-the-art building for business studies, the Business Education Complex. The college also celebrated the inaugural LSU100 awards, celebrating the fastest-growing Tiger-led businesses.
Robert T. Sumichrast (2003-2007)
Under Dean Sumichrast, the college established the Stephenson Disaster Management Institute and renamed the Entrepreneurship Institute, in honor of Emmet and Toni Stephenson, to the Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute. The AACSB also reaccredited the college during this time.
Thomas D. Clark Jr. (1996-2002)
During Dean Clark's tenure, two of the college's academic units, the Flores MBA Program and the Rucks Department of Management, were named in honor of committed donors. The college also established the Hall of Distinction, recognizing the accomplishments of individuals with strong associations with the college.
James B. Henry (1985-1995)
Under Dean Henry's leadership, the college established three innovative units, the Center for Internal Auditing, Real Estate Research Institute, and Louisiana Business & Technology Center.
Donald L. Woodland (1977-1984)
During Dean Woodland's tenure, the college moved into a new facility, the Center for Engineering and Business Administration (CEBA).
William D. Ross (1957-1977)
Under Dean Ross' leadership, the college was reorganized and renamed the College of Business Administration, and LSU Executive Education was established.
J.B. Trant (1928-1957)
In 1928, the University Board of Supervisors established LSU College of Commerce, and J.B. Trant was named the first dean. Under Dean Trant’s leadership, the college received its first accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and began offering the Master of Business Administration.