News Summary
Joseph Savoie, President of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has announced his retirement after a notable 17-year leadership. Under his tenure, ULL achieved R1 status in research, joining the ranks of top universities in Louisiana. Jaimie Hebert, the current Provost, will serve as interim president while the search for a permanent successor begins. Savoie’s impact on widening funding for research and enhancing student experiences has set a strong foundation for the university’s future.
Lafayette, Louisiana – Joseph Savoie, the President of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL), has announced his retirement effective this week after a distinguished 17-year tenure. Mark Romero, Chairman of the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors, made the announcement during a special board meeting held on Wednesday. The board voted unanimously in favor of designating Savoie as ULL’s president emeritus upon his retirement.
Since assuming the presidency in 2008, Savoie has overseen considerable advancements at ULL, leading the university through a transformative era of growth and development. A significant achievement during his leadership was ULL being granted R1 status in the Carnegie Classifications of Institutions in 2022, which signifies the institution’s very high levels of research activity. ULL is now recognized as one of only three R1 universities in the state of Louisiana, joining ranks with Louisiana State University (LSU) and Tulane University.
In light of Savoie’s planned departure, Jaimie Hebert, who currently serves as the ULL Provost, has been appointed to take on the responsibilities of interim president. The search for a permanent successor to Savoie is underway, although no specific timeline for the appointment has yet been disclosed. The situation remains a developing story as the university community anticipates the next steps in this transition.
Joseph Savoie’s contributions to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette extend beyond academic achievements. During his presidency, he has been pivotal in advocating for increased funding for research and development, as well as enhancing student experiences and opportunities on campus. His leadership has left a lasting impact on the university, shaping it into a key player in the realm of higher education within Louisiana.
In addition to the news of Savoie’s retirement, there are several community developments that have been highlighted recently. Nominations for the Women of the Year award, as well as the best nonprofits that support women and children, are due by August 4 at 5 p.m.. This initiative seeks to honor individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the welfare of women and children in the community.
Furthermore, the Ronald McDonald House in New Orleans has unveiled a new playground designed for children undergoing medical treatment. This addition aims to provide a comforting space for young patients and their families during challenging times.
Additionally, Herzing University located in Metairie has recently launched an online Bachelor of Social Work program, focusing on social justice and mental health. The initiative reflects the university’s commitment to addressing pressing social issues and equipping students with essential skills for meaningful careers in social work.
In an effort to support workforce development, more employers in the region are beginning to cover college costs upfront, allowing employees to pursue higher education without accumulating debt. This trend is seen as a significant move towards enhancing access to education and creating opportunities for career advancement for workers.
As the University of Louisiana at Lafayette prepares to bid farewell to Joseph Savoie, the institution looks ahead to the future while embracing his legacy of leadership and progress.
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