LSU Board to Elect New University President Today
The LSU Board of Supervisors is preparing to elect the university’s 29th president today. Three candidates are vying for the position: Wade Rousse, James Dalton, and Dr. Robert Robbins. Each candidate brings a distinct vision for LSU’s future.
Candidate Profiles
- Wade Rousse: Current president of McNeese State University, Rousse has a strong business background. He aims to engage companies for research funding and improve success metrics across the LSU system.
- James Dalton: The executive vice president and provost at the University of Alabama, Dalton prioritizes a “student-centric” approach. He emphasizes the importance of support services to boost student graduation rates.
- Dr. Robert Robbins: Former president of the University of Arizona, Robbins highlights the need to double research funding at LSU, a feat he achieved in Arizona.
Expectations for the New President
The next president will succeed William Tate IV, who left LSU earlier this year for Rutgers University. Under Tate, LSU’s research spending reached $540 million, mostly from federal grants, reflecting a significant increase from previous years.
Potential backing for Rousse comes from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry. However, Rousse’s credentials have drawn criticism. Some argue that his experience at a smaller institution may not sufficiently prepare him for LSU’s dynamic environment.
Concerns Over Academic Background
Several LSU faculty members have expressed their concerns regarding Rousse’s lack of a strong research background. Political Science Professor Belinda Davis articulated worries about faculty retention and recruitment under Rousse’s leadership.
During the search committee meeting, Rousse defended his nontraditional path. He compared his career to that of a CEO navigating various companies, asserting that effective university leadership does not solely rely on a research-centric background.
Organizational Structure Review
Following the presidential election, the LSU Board is set to evaluate the organizational structure of the university system. Discussions may include reinstating separate president and chancellor roles, which were merged in 2012 to streamline operations.
Rousse is a strong advocate for reinstating the chancellor position, arguing that it is essential for leading each campus effectively. The outcome of today’s election will set the tone for LSU’s future direction and governance.
