SLU Cook School of Business

Our Mission

The mission of the John Cook School of Business is excellence in business education inspired by the Jesuit ideals of seeking truth, educating the whole person, and serving others.

History of the School

Founded in 1910, the John Cook School of Business is the 15th oldest business school in the nation.


Although Saint Louis University had awarded commercial certificates to students since 1862, the students were still part of the regular collegiate department of the University. The idea of a separate school within a university for studying business was a new concept in the United States, even in the early 20th century.

In 1910, however, Saint Louis University established a separate School of Commerce and Finance (C&F) due primarily to the hard work and persistence of Father Joseph L. Davis, S.J. Besides practical training in disciplines such as accounting and economics, Father Davis also believed that the modern businessman needed a general background in the liberal arts, particularly literature and grammar.

In the early years of the School, classes met in Du Bourg Hall. But in 1931, C & F moved into its permanent home in a new building on Lindell Boulevard slightly west of the Law School. This building eventually would be named Davis-Shaughnessy Hall in honor of Father Davis and Martin Shaughnessy, a prominent St. Louis businessman, a graduate of the University and the primary donor for the construction of the building.

A Comittment For the Future

As the oldest business school west of the Mississippi, in the heart of a large metropolitan area, the school is well connected and respected in the business community. Classes are small so that professors and classmates can work together closely. At the same time, we think big when it comes to career planning, internships and opportunities to make contacts with business professionals in several disciplines of choice.