Augustine Lado

Dr. Augustine Abulu Lado, beloved father, husband, brother, scholar, mentor, and devoted servant to his community, passed away on March 9, 2026, after a life marked by courage, humility, and a deep commitment to others.

Augustine was born on January 1, 1960, in Kajo Keji, South Sudan, to his father, Mikaya Lobia Lodi, and his mother, Monica Wude Godi. As a young child, he and his family fled the violence of civil war in Sudan and lived as refugees in northern Uganda. Even in his youth, Augustine demonstrated extraordinary courage and responsibility. As a teenager, during the turmoil of the Idi Amin regime, he traveled south, against the flow of those fleeing violence, to locate his younger siblings and bring them safely back to South Sudan.

A gifted student, Augustine earned a full scholarship to study business at the University of Khartoum, beginning the academic path that would define his career. Raised in a devout Episcopalian family, he remained deeply committed to his faith and served as an accountant for a large church network.

He later came to the United States to continue his studies, earning a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Memphis in 1992. His academic work would influence students and scholars across the world.

Approximately twenty-five years ago, Augustine moved to Potsdam, New York, where he joined the faculty of Clarkson University’s School of Business. Over the course of his career, he served as a professor of strategic and international management and held the Richard C. ’55 and Joy Dorf Chair in Innovation and Entrepreneurship. He taught courses in strategic planning, international management, and organizational strategy, and was known for challenging students to think broadly and act with purpose.

In recognition of his leadership, he was appointed Interim Dean of Clarkson’s David D. Reh School of Business in 2018 and later became Dean in 2020. He also served as Senior Adviser to the University President on Anti-Racism initiatives, reflecting his commitment to justice and institutional progress.

Augustine was an active scholar whose research focused on strategic management and international business, particularly how organizational capabilities and cooperation shape business performance. His work appeared in leading academic journals, including the Strategic Management Journal, Academy of Management Review, and the Journal of Operations Management, among others.

Augustine was truly global in both outlook and experience. He spoke multiple languages, including English, Swahili, Acholi, Luganda, Kuku, and Arabic, and he traveled extensively, visiting more than 35 countries across every continent. Beyond the classroom, he was deeply committed to global engagement and frequently brought students, colleagues, and friends with him to East Africa, believing strongly in the power of education, cultural exchange, and firsthand experience.

Yet perhaps the most defining aspect of Augustine’s life was his quiet and unwavering dedication to helping others. He supported many individuals and families in South Sudan, often providing financial assistance while living a modest lifestyle himself. His generosity was rarely spoken of, but it transformed the lives of many.

In recent years, Augustine devoted significant energy to supporting the economic development of his home region. He served as chair of a committee working to restore the road connecting his home village to Juba, the capital of South Sudan, an effort aimed at improving access to markets, healthcare, and opportunity for communities long underserved.

In his final days, after choosing to transition to comfort care, Augustine remained remarkably at peace, smiling and sharing moments of laughter with friends and family.

Augustine is survived by his son, Yengi Lado. His wife, Betty Hinds, and his older son, Duku Lado preceded him in death. He is also survived by his siblings Rejoice Juan Lobia, Philister Poni Lobia, and Mustapha Maring; his adopted daughter Peace Abulu, as well as by countless cousins, nieces, nephews, students, colleagues, friends, and community members whose lives were shaped by his wisdom, generosity, and example.

A viewing, memorial service, and reception in celebration of Augustine’s life will be held on April 11, 2026, at the Church of the Nazarene, 11 NY-72, Potsdam, NY 13676, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Augustine’s life was a testament to the idea that scholarship and service can be lived as one. Through his work, his faith, and his quiet generosity, he built bridges across continents, communities, and generations. Arrangements are with the Garner Funeral Service and condolences can be shared @www.garnerfh.com.