Meet The Dean
T. Russell Crook, PhD
E. j. Ourso Distinguished Professor of Business and dean endowed chair
T. Russell Crook is the newly appointed dean of the LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business, Louisiana’s flagship business college. In this role, he begins his tenure leading a vibrant academic community dedicated to educating current and future business leaders, producing impactful research, and strengthening the state’s economy. As dean, Crook will guide the college’s strategic direction, champion innovation in business education, and foster connections across industry, government, and academia to expand the college’s reach.
Prior to joining LSU, Crook held multiple roles at the University of Tennessee’s Haslam College of Business. He served as the First Horizon Foundation Distinguished Business Professor, Cheryl Massingale Business Faculty Scholar, and Head of the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship, one of UT’s largest and fastest-growing departments. Under his leadership, the department earned national recognition for its thought leadership and teaching excellence.
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.
His academic honors include the University of Tennessee’s prestigious 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 is also a former president of the Southern Management Association, an organization dedicated to advancing professional development, high-impact scholarship and teaching, and engagement programs for faculty and PhD students in the field of management.
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 and active community volunteer, supporting organizations such as the Community Coalition Against Human Trafficking.
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.