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Todd Milbourn, a corporate finance expert and an experienced, visionary academic leader, is the 10th dean for the Edwin L. Cox School of Business. He joined ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ on June 1.

Learn more in the Q&A below about Dean Milbourn’s views on entrepreneurship and the future of business, what it means to be part of the Cox legacy, and his greatest adventure sitting on the summit ridge of Artesonraju in Peru.

Q: How do you see the role of business education evolving?

Business education must continue to rapidly evolve to meet the demands of a complex, interconnected world. Experiential learning will remain essential, with students tackling real-world challenges rather than learning in isolation. Advances in AI and technology are reshaping business strategy, operations and decision-making. Today’s organizations seek leaders who combine technical expertise with strategic thinking, adaptability and strong team management. Effective business schools must find even more creative ways to blend rigorous academics with practical, future-focused experiences. I am excited to see how we will further expand Cox’s experiential opportunities to an even greater audience by leveraging the amazing economic engine of the region.

Q: What are your top priorities when it comes to student experience, both inside and outside the classroom?

My priority is to champion a new strategic plan that further accelerates the Cox School academically and its broader impact. This means continuously challenging what and how we teach, creating even more opportunities for students to apply their learning. Innovation will remain paramount in driving the Cox School’s curriculum, research and community engagement. Further strengthening our connections across Dallas and beyond – including the incredible Cox alumni network – will give students even greater access to valuable experiences and professional networks. Everything we do helps students grow as learners, professionals and leaders.

Q: What role do partnerships with industry leaders and alumni play in enhancing student outcomes and school reputation?

The Cox School has already done an incredible job establishing corporate partnerships, but there is such a great opportunity for more. Our goal is for ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ Cox to be at the center of anything and everything that is stimulating and driving the economic engine and entrepreneurial ecosystem of first Dallas, then Texas and beyond. We have seen that the involvement of industry leaders and alumni positively influences the student experience. We want to foster even greater involvement to continue to help shape our graduates into the next generation of leaders in the workforce. These partnerships are jointly beneficial – as the quality of education improves, so does the quality of the workforce.

Q: How important is entrepreneurship in the future of business?

Entrepreneurship is essential to the future of business and leadership development. It goes beyond starting new ventures – it involves cultivating a mindset focused on innovation, problem-solving and initiative. These qualities are invaluable in any professional context, whether leading a startup or contributing within an established organization. At ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ Cox, our goal is to ensure students understand the principles of entrepreneurship and develop the skills and confidence to apply them effectively. This enterprising spirit enables them to make meaningful contributions and drive progress throughout their careers, and we will seek to further infuse entrepreneurial thinking into everything we do. This school and our graduates must be as entrepreneurial and ambitious as the companies that define Dallas. 

Q: What does being a part of the Cox legacy mean to you?

I’m excited to be an advocate for ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ Cox and build upon its strong position, unique community and unrivaled assets. I have watched this school’s upward trajectory for years. At this moment in time, the Cox School of Business is poised for greatness with untapped potential to become an elite business school in an elite business city. I’m so very grateful to take the reins and build on the exponential momentum of Cox, ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½, and Dallas.

Q: What are your early impressions about the ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ community?

I’ve already discerned that ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ Cox is strengthened by a tight-knit, welcoming alumni network that opens doors. The same is true of the Cox School’s faculty and staff, and even our non-alumni supporters. A can-do attitude is the norm here. It creates incredible energy and potential for us to build upon.

Q: What are you most excited about in your role?

The distinct strengths of our school and our city uniquely position us among the few universities nationwide with access to top business and research talent. ÕýÆ·À¶µ¼º½ Cox is committed to dramatically increasing our reach and relevance across Dallas and beyond. Empowered by Mustang Momentum, I’m excited to continue elevating our programs and national reputation.

Q: What are your hobbies outside of work?

I like to spend time with my family and stay physically active. With a family of avid sports fans, I find that we often stay well connected with conversations about sports as an impetus. When not watching the pros, I enjoy working out and have spent some time in the mountains, both with alpine and ice climbing. My greatest adventure was sitting on the summit ridge of Artesonraju in Peru, famously known as the branding for Paramount. A new challenge I took on this past academic year was jumping into a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym. The craft is both physically and mentally challenging. And sometimes, I even “enjoy” it.