Meet Our Faculty

The LSU Aviation faculty represents a blend of industry experience, academic excellence, and passion for preparing the next generation of aviation leaders. Our instructors bring expertise from commercial airlines, airport management, the U.S. military, and the FAA.

Jackson Baldassaro

Dean of Aviation

Jackson Baldassaro is the Dean of Aviation at Louisiana State University, where he combines his background in aviation operations and legal studies to prepare students for the complex regulatory landscape of the modern air industry. A graduate of the LSU Law Center, Mr. Baldassaro’s research and instruction center on aviation compliance, airport governance, and transportation policy. His teaching emphasizes critical thinking, safety leadership, and strategic management within collegiate aviation programs.

Areas of interest: Aviation Law, Airport Administration, Air Transportation Policy

Thomas Avery

Assoisiate Dean

Thomas Avery serves as the Associate Dean of LSU Aviation, bringing more than two decades of experience in academic administration and flight operations. Before joining LSU, he held leadership roles with regional airlines and collegiate flight programs, where he oversaw curriculum development and student training initiatives. At LSU, he focuses on expanding the aviation program’s infrastructure, faculty development, and industry partnerships to strengthen Louisiana’s growing aerospace community.

Areas of interest: Program Leadership, Flight Operations Management, Aviation Education Strategy

Dr. Sarah McConnell

Chief Flight Instructor

Dr. Sarah McConnell is LSU Aviation’s Chief Flight Instructor, combining over 10,000 hours of flight time with extensive experience in collegiate aviation education. A former airline captain and FAA-certified flight examiner, she specializes in advanced instrument and commercial training. Dr. McConnell leads the development of LSU’s pilot curriculum and mentors students as they progress from their first solo flight to professional certification.

Areas of interest: Commercial Flight, Instrument Training, Safety Management Systems