The University of Louisiana System's Board of Supervisors has unanimously selected Dr. Jim Henderson as the next president of Louisiana Tech University. Dr. Henderson has been serving as the president and CEO of the University of Louisiana System for almost seven years.
Dr. Henderson expressed his delight in succeeding President Guice and leading Louisiana Tech into its next era of excellence. He has a deep-rooted relationship with the university, dating back to 1941 when his father signed up to play football for Joe Aillet. Dr. Henderson's youngest son is currently a sophomore at Louisiana Tech.
The Board voted to suspend its Board Rule guiding presidential searches and named Dr. Henderson as the sole finalist for Louisiana Tech's presidency during a meeting earlier this month. Board Chair Liz Pierre stated that Dr. Henderson is uniquely qualified to lead the institution towards an even brighter future.
Dr. Les Guice, Louisiana Tech's current president, announced his retirement last month after serving the Tech community for more than 45 years, including 10 years as president and seven years under Dr. Henderson's leadership.
Dr. Henderson, a Shreveport native, previously served as president of Northwestern State University and Bossier Parish Community College, where both institutions experienced significant enrollment growth during his tenure.
Ruston Mayor Ronnie Walker says he is excited to welcome Dr. Henderson to Ruston to lead Louisiana Tech and continue the close relationship between Tech and the City of Ruston.
Dr. Henderson will assume his role as president on January 1.