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The Southern University System Board has appointed Senator Joe Bouie as chancellor of Southern University at New Orleans. His tenure begins August 1, 2025, with a contract extending until July 31, 2028. Bouie’s extensive background in education and governance, coupled with his previous role as chancellor, positions him to lead the university effectively. His return to SUNO comes after a notable previous dismissal, reflecting his deep connection to the institution and his commitment to advocate for equity in education.
The Southern University System Board of Supervisors has announced the appointment of Louisiana State Senator Joe Bouie as the new chancellor of Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO). This decision was made during a board meeting on July 18, 2025, with a unanimous vote by board members. Bouie is set to assume his role officially on August 1, 2025, with a contract extending until July 31, 2028, and a salary of $275,000.
Joe Bouie, who is 78 years old, has an extensive background in both education and state governance. He has served in the Louisiana State Senate since 2020 and was previously a member of the Louisiana House from 2014 to 2020. He is eligible to continue his tenure in the Senate until the end of 2032, pending re-election. Upon accepting the chancellor position, Bouie has indicated he will resign from his Senate seat “at the appropriate time,” adhering to state laws that prohibit individuals from holding office in two branches of government simultaneously.
Bouie’s appointment is particularly notable considering his past with SUNO. He previously held the chancellor role but was dismissed in 2002. This marks a significant return to an institution that he credits for profoundly impacting his life. In his own words, he stated that SUNO “raised” him and “saved” his life, underscoring the university’s importance in his personal and professional journey.
Before this recent appointment, the position was held by James Ammons, who did not announce his departure ahead of the board meeting. The Board of Supervisors opted to appoint Bouie without conducting a search for his replacement, favoring his established qualifications and prior connections to the university. Bouie has been vocal about his commitment to ethical standards in university leadership and had been previously critical of the administration during his earlier tenure as chancellor.
After his dismissal, Bouie did not leave SUNO altogether but instead returned to the faculty, serving as the president of the SUNO Faculty Senate. His involvement in higher education and advocacy extends beyond his administrative roles. Bouie has actively campaigned for equitable education funding, social justice, and health equity during his legislative career. His position as the former chairman of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus lent him visibility and influence, particularly concerning issues of inequality within the education sector.
Senator Bouie is a graduate of SUNO, holding a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from the institution. He further pursued advanced education with a Master of Social Work from Tulane University and earned his Ph.D. from Clark Atlanta University. His diverse educational and professional background equips him well to lead SUNO, known for its commitment to serving a diverse student body.
His predecessor in the Senate, Wesley Bishop, has faced scrutiny from federal authorities regarding payroll abuse during his time at SUNO, which adds context to Bouie’s new appointment as the university seeks to move forward under fresh leadership. Bouie’s extensive experience in higher education, social work, and community advocacy positions him to reinforce SUNO’s mission and objectives in the years to come.
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