Robert H. Brockhaus, a prominent figure in the academic field of business entrepreneurship, passed away at the age of 84. Born on April 18, 1940, in St. Louis, he was known for his pioneering work in entrepreneurship education and research.
Brockhaus began his career at Saint Louis University (SLU) in 1973 and started teaching entrepreneurship a year later. His efforts helped make SLU one of the first institutions globally to offer such courses. In 1987, he founded what is now known as the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship at SLU.
Lewis Sheats, director of the Chaifetz Center for Entrepreneurship, remarked on Brockhaus’s supportive nature: “Bob called me on my first day at SLU (in 2021) to let me know he was here for me if the need arose,” adding that his kindness and dedication were remarkable.
His academic journey included earning degrees from Missouri University of Science and Technology, Purdue University, and Washington University in St. Louis. Jerome Katz, who holds the Robert H. Brockhaus Chair in Entrepreneurship at SLU, highlighted Brockhaus’s significant contributions to entrepreneurship research: “Bob’s doctoral dissertation at Washington University had an unusual impact.”
The entrepreneurship program under Brockhaus’s leadership received several awards. He held key positions in professional organizations such as the International Council for Small Business and served as founder and director of Missouri Small Business Development Centers.
Katz noted Brockhaus’s role as a pioneer: “Bob was truly a pioneer with a small group of fellow academics creating a new, research-driven approach to understanding entrepreneurs.” This approach contributed significantly during the entrepreneurial wave of the 1980s under President Reagan’s administration.
Brockhaus also represented academia at White House Conferences on Small Business and held various international academic positions throughout his career. His model of entrepreneurship education remains influential today.
In recognition of his contributions, Saint Louis University established the Robert H. Brockhaus Chair in Entrepreneurship in 2019. He continued contributing to family business studies even after retiring from SLU in 2004.
Brockhaus also served four terms as an alderman in Sunset Hills and received numerous accolades throughout his life including being named Citizen of the Year both in Sunset Hills and Crestwood.
He is survived by his wife Joyce Brockhaus; children Robert H Brockhaus Jr., Lynn Vartanian; and four grandchildren.
