When the Lundquist College of Business created the Professor of Practice classification at the University of Oregon, it sought to bring game-changing business leaders to campus to create world-class learning experiences for students that could not be replicated anywhere else. The Oregon Advanced Strategy course, developed and led by Michael Crooke, the college's first Avamere Professor of Practice, delivers on that promise.

The Oregon Advanced Strategy course was pioneered by Crooke last year, and this spring a new crop of Oregon MBA students will have the opportunity to participate. The course consists of four eight-hour classes—each designed around the theme of one of the college's four centers: entrepreneurship, finance, sports business, and sustainability.

A former CEO of Patagonia and Revolution Living, Crooke tapped his network to recruit speakers to share their expertise and illustrate core concepts. Last spring's roster included Scott Kerslake, CEO of Prana Living; Rick Ridgeway, vice president of environmental programs at Patagonia, Inc.; and Rick Amodio, managing partner at Center Edge LLC, and more.

“The Oregon Advanced Strategy course is the capstone of our MBA students" experience," said John Hull, Business Innovation Institute executive director and assistant dean for centers. “This innovative course imbues our graduates with the vision and strategic know-how to distinguish themselves and take on leadership roles throughout their careers."

For students, the experience is intensive—and transforming.

“Oregon Advanced Strategy was absolutely the highlight of my graduate education," said Sarah Spring, MBA/JD '14. “The course draws on a wide range of perspectives to really explore what's at the root of long-term, sustainable, competitive advantage in remarkably successful companies."

Hear from Crooke, Hull, and previous course participants in the video above to learn more about how the Oregon Advanced Strategy course prepares our Oregon MBA graduates to be leading-edge business leaders.