Early Bird

In memoriam

MSU Denver remembers Laszlo Pook, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Computer Information Systems.

By Lindsey Coulter

March 1, 2021

The Metropolitan State University of Denver community remembers Laszlo “Laci” Pook, Ph.D., professor emeritus, Computer Information Systems, who died Feb. 15.

Pook joined MSU Denver in 1985 to teach in what was then the Department of Computer Management and Sciences, having previously taught at Colorado College and the University of Southern Colorado (now Colorado State University Pueblo). Pook was one of the architects of MSU Denver’s Computer Information Systems program and retired from the University in 2009 after a long and distinguished career.

During his time as a Roadrunner, Pook co-developed and coordinated at various times several Information Systems courses, including the business core course Foundations of Information Systems as well as Systems Analysis and Design and Management Information Systems. His scholarly work focused on diverse information-systems topics, often within an international context. He was a staunch believer in offering a relevant and high-quality curriculum, delivered rigorously by a fully committed faculty. He authored numerous peer-reviewed articles published in prestigious journals, presented widely and maintained high standards for himself and his students. This commitment to academic excellence earned him a Fulbright Fellowship to study at the University of Veszprem in Hungary, during which he received special recognition from the Fulbright Foundation for his work.

“Laci was a gentleman, athlete, scholar and just a wonderful human being,” said Raj Khandekar, Ph.D., professor of Management. “I consider myself privileged for his friendship and the times when we had discussions on all kinds of topics. He was certainly a pillar of the CIS Department. I am saddened by the news of his passing, but I will never forget his slow-spreading smile.”

“Laci Pook will always be part of the fabric of the CIS and BA Department,” said Abel Moreno, Ph.D., professor and chair, Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics. “His countless professional accomplishments and contributions while at MSU Denver and before pale in comparison to his many personal qualities, in particular his genuine kindness and humility. He was a devoted teacher, committed to conducting his courses with the highest standards. He was a kind and humble person, quick with a joke and always willing to be of service. He will be dearly missed.”

Information about memorial arrangements will be shared as it is available.