Russell Crook is named dean of LSU's E. J. Ourso College of Business.

With effect from July 28, pending approval by the LSU Board of Supervisors, Louisiana State University (LSU) is pleased to introduce Dr. Russell Crook as the next Dean of the E. J. Ourso College of Business. Dr. Crook provides more than 20 years of expertise in higher education and corporate leadership, along with a remarkable academic and professional background.

A seasoned leader with a wealth of experience

At the Haslam College of Business at the University of Tennessee, Dr. Crook is now the Head of the Department of Management and Entrepreneurship. Crook has fostered business relationships, improved student achievement, and greatly boosted faculty research output in his capacity. The Department of Management and Entrepreneurship has accomplished new heights under his direction and gained a reputation for quality in research and instruction.
 

LSU President William F. Tate IV expressed his enthusiasm for Dr. Crook’s appointment, stating, “Please join me in welcoming Dr. Crook to lead LSU’s E.J. Ourso College of Business, where he will direct a college central to every facet of our Pentagon priorities. Analytics, economics, marketing, management, trade and finance, and all the other focal points of the college drive our state’s and nation’s need for stronger agriculture, biomedical, coastal, defense, and energy research and industries. We look forward to seeing his impact on our community.”
 

Research Focus and Academic Background

Dr. Crook has an MBA from American University and a Ph.D. in Strategic Management from Florida State University. He also received his bachelor's degree in economics from Florida State University. Crook started his academic career at Northern Arizona University as a faculty member before coming to the University of Tennessee in 2007. His research throughout the years has examined how companies might enhance their performance with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and strategic management. Crook is the author of more than 40 academic publications with over 10,000 citations.
 

In his present position at Tennessee, Crook has introduced new courses in technological commercialisation, sustainability, project management, and leadership, among other strategic planning efforts that have revolutionised the department. In addition to improving the curriculum, these efforts have resulted in a 40% increase in departmental majors and a notable increase in the beginning earnings of students.

Improving Economic Growth and Student Achievement

The "TakeOff" program, which aims to assist first-generation college students in adjusting to university life, was launched thanks in large part to Crook's leadership. The initiative has been a huge success, helping to raise overall success and retention rates for students.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Crook,” said LSU Executive Vice President & Provost Roy Haggerty. “His leadership skills, scholarly expertise, and industry experience make him the ideal candidate to lead LSU’s distinguished E. J. Ourso College of Business.”
 

Dr. Crook's Vision for the Future

On his appointment, Dr. Crook shared his enthusiasm for leading LSU's E. J. Ourso College of Business. "I am thrilled to join the E. J. Ourso College of Business and work alongside its outstanding students, alumni, faculty, and staff," said Dr. Crook. “Together, we will not only elevate the college to new heights in student success and thought leadership, but also enhance its role as a catalyst for economic growth and opportunity across the state of Louisiana.”

Acknowledged for Outstanding Career

Dr. Crook has won many honours during his career, such as the Bank of America Faculty Leadership Award, the Martin & Carol Robinson Excellence in Teaching, Research, and Service Award from Haslam College of Business, and the University of Tennessee's Hesler Award for Teaching and Service. In addition, Dr. Crook has been a Fellow and the past President of the Southern Management Association, a prominent management education organisation.

Crook held jobs at IBM, US Airways, and American Airlines in the corporate sector prior to starting his academic career. He gained important insights into the nexus between management and business operations while concentrating on strategic planning and international procurement in these positions.
 

Taking a look Ahead

The E. J. Ourso College of Business at LSU is starting a new chapter with Dr. Crook's appointment, and the campus community is excited to see what developments lie ahead. Dr. Crook is well-positioned to guide the institution to new heights in academic accomplishment and industry partnership because to his extensive expertise, demonstrated leadership, and dedication to promoting innovation. His direction will surely be crucial in determining how LSU's business programs evolve in the future and how they affect the state of Louisiana's economy.