Southern University Board Selected Three Finalists
The board identified candidates for the system president role following interviews with six semifinalists.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in People
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The Southern University Board of Supervisors has selected three finalists to lead the university system. The decision followed a series of interviews conducted with six semifinalists.
Why it matters
The appointment will determine the future leadership of the Southern University system, which operates campuses across the state including locations in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport.
The committee narrowed the search from six initial semifinalists to three finalists. Finalist Larissa Littleton-Steib previously secured over $60 million in philanthropic investments during her tenure at Delgado Community College.
The players
Brian Bridges
He is a former secretary of higher education for the state of New Jersey.
Roscoe Jones
He is a former dean of the Drake University Law School.
Larissa Littleton-Steib
She serves as the chancellor of Delgado Community College.
Southern University Board of Supervisors
This is the governing body responsible for overseeing the Southern University system and appointing its leadership.
The details
The search committee met in Baton Rouge to conduct interviews with candidates in executive session. Each candidate was provided the opportunity to deliver opening remarks to the public before the search committee concluded the evaluation process.
Timeline
Friday, October 9, 2026: Search committee interviewed six semifinalists.
Market Landscape
This selection process follows the established guidelines of the Southern University presidential search process. The board is working to fill a vacancy in a system that maintains significant operational footprints in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport.
The appointment of a new president will influence administrative policy and future development across the university's various state campuses. Local stakeholders and students may see shifts in institutional priorities depending on the candidate selected by the board.
The takeaway
The board is now evaluating the three finalists to determine the best candidate for the university system. Interested parties should monitor upcoming board meetings for the final confirmation of the new president.
Further reading
Learn more about organizational leadership changes in the People section.
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