Posted on Wednesday, May 06, 2026
Dr. Rhett Yates M’99, a leading expert in the field of aviation, is joining LaGrange College in the upcoming school year as its new Director of Aviation and Professor of Business Management after receiving approval from the college’s Board of Trustees.
He will be coming from Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Florida, where he taught for more than two decades first as a Business faculty member and then Professor of Aeronautics. Dr. Yates helped push forward its aviation program through his leadership, serving an instrumental role as an advisor for multiple student chapters of aviation organizations.
Throughout his career, he has developed aviation management curriculum for colleges as well as presented and published research at professional aviation conferences.
“Dr. Yates’ extensive experience in Aviation Education, focusing on Aviation Management, aligns perfectly with our Aviation Leadership (Professional Pilot) major program beginning in fall 2026,” said Dr. Maranah Sauter, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs. “His enthusiasm for aviation is infectious and his excitement in helping to build a strong aviation program here at LaGrange College is remarkable.”
Dr. Yates received a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management/Flight Technology from the Florida Institute of Technology, a master’s degree in Business Administration from LaGrange College and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Lynn University.
At LaGrange College, he served on the Board of Trustees, and in 2022, received the Distinguished Alumni Award.
Dr. Yates and his wife, Mandy, have two children, Mattie Belle and Coleman.
Category: College, Academics
Keywords: Leadership, Aviation
