RUSTON, La. — Willis Knighton Health has established a new endowed professorship in Louisiana Tech University’s College of Business, honoring the legacy of William Jefferson Cole, a distinguished alumnus and longtime strategic advisor to the health system.
The Willis Knighton Health Endowed Professorship in Memory of William Jefferson Cole will provide research support to a faculty member whose work strengthens both academic innovation and student learning within the College of Business.
“We’re grateful to Willis Knighton for honoring Jeff’s memory in this impactful way,” said Dr. Chris Martin, dean of the College of Business. “Professorships allow us to attract and retain top faculty, and support research and curricular innovation while providing long-term financial stability for the University.”
The $100,000 endowment was made possible through a gift of $80,000 from Willis Knighton and a $20,000 match from the Louisiana Education Quality Support Fund, a state program designed to enhance higher education through private-public funding partnerships.
Cole, a Louisiana Tech graduate with a degree in accounting, served in the U.S. Air Force before beginning his professional career in 1965 at what is now Cole, Evans & Peterson, where he eventually became managing partner. In 1967, he began a decades-long advisory relationship with Willis Knighton Health, contributing significantly to its growth into the largest healthcare provider in the region.
In recognition of his contributions to the field and the university, Cole was named Distinguished Alumnus of the College of Business in 2017.
“Through this endowed professorship we honor the memory of Jeff Cole,” said Jaf Fielder, president and CEO of Willis Knighton. “He not only shared his vast intellectual gifts with Willis Knighton for nearly 60 years, his generosity extended to countless others in Northwest Louisiana.”
The professorship ensures Cole’s legacy will continue to inspire innovation in business education while supporting future generations of students and faculty.
For more information about establishing an endowed professorship at Louisiana Tech’s College of Business, contact Mary Susan Britt, Executive Director of Development, at [email protected].
About the College of Business
Louisiana Tech’s College of Business offers market-responsive programs, a student-focused culture, and a commitment to innovation and impact. Accredited by AACSB International, the college provides eight undergraduate degrees along with MBA, Master of Accountancy, and Ph.D. programs. Learn more at business.latech.edu.