Message from the Chair of the Board of Supervisors

The Southern University System is officially launching the search for the next president of the Southern University System. The selection of the next System president marks an important moment in the history of our campuses. On behalf of the Southern University Board of Supervisors, I am confident that we are committed to conducting a thorough, inclusive, and transparent process that will identify an exceptional leader for the years ahead.

In an effort to be transparent and encourage broad participation in the search process, we are launching this dedicated presidential search webpage that will serve as the central repository for updates, documents, and stakeholder engagement.

To our students, alumni, faculty, staff, and partners, I want to extend my sincere appreciation for your ongoing support and steadfast commitment to the Southern University System. I assure you that this search will be conducted with the highest integrity, using a smooth, organized, and well‑structured approach.

Guiding this work is the 2026 Presidential Search Committee. This body reflects a distinguished and diverse group of key stakeholders representing faculty, staff, business and industry, community partners, alumni, and students. Their collective expertise, perspectives, and commitment to Southern University's mission will ensure a smooth search process that reflects the values we hold as the nation’s only historically Black university system.

The search committee is charged with identifying and evaluating interested individuals who demonstrate the qualities and professional acumen essential for leading a complex, multi‑campus system in a rapidly evolving higher‑education landscape. Some qualities include:

• Visionary leadership capable of articulating and advancing a bold, future‑focused strategic agenda
• A steadfast commitment to student success, academic excellence, and the University’s land‑grant mission
• Strong operational and financial leadership to sustain, strengthen, and advance the System and its campuses
• A collaborative leadership style that builds trust, inspires innovation, and enhances stakeholder engagement
• Established relationships with business and industry, supported by a demonstrated record of philanthropic support
• A proven record of leading and advancing large‑scale enterprises with measurable success.

The search committee will be tasked with recommending one to three highly qualified finalists for the Board of Supervisors’ consideration no later than the scheduled May meeting of the Board.

In the coming weeks, additional details regarding the search process, along with opportunities for engagement, will be shared.

Thank you again for your continued service and unwavering dedication to the Southern University System. I look forward to working with you as we select the next leader of the Southern University System!

Serving Southern,

Tony Clayton
Chairman
Southern University Board of Supervisors