Southern University System Selected Three Finalists
The system presidential search committee named three candidates to advance for interviews by the Board of Supervisors.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in People
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The Southern University System search committee has officially identified three finalists for its next president. These candidates will now undergo interviews with the Board of Supervisors to determine who will lead the institution.
Why it matters
The appointment of a new system president is a critical step in providing leadership for the university system as it manages campuses across Louisiana. The chosen leader will oversee more than 12,000 students across the system's various locations.
The Southern University System currently serves a student population of more than 12,000 across campuses in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport. The search committee is moving forward with three finalists for the permanent presidential vacancy.
The players
Dennis J. Shields
He is the former president of the Southern University System whose tenure concluded at the end of 2025.
Orlando F. McMeans
He is the current interim president of the Southern University System who began his leadership role in January 2026.
Brian K. Bridges
He served as the New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education until the end of 2025.
Roscoe Jones
He has served as the dean of the historic Drake University Law School since July 2024.
Larissa Littleton-Steib
She has served as the chancellor of Delgado Community College since 2019.
The details
The finalists were chosen to succeed former president Dennis J. Shields, who finished his term at the end of 2025. Orlando F. McMeans is currently serving as the interim president of the system while the board conducts its search.
Timeline
2019: Larissa Littleton-Steib began her term as chancellor of Delgado Community College.
November 16, 2020: Brian K. Bridges started his role as New Jersey Secretary of Higher Education.
July 1, 2024: Roscoe Jones began his tenure as dean of Drake University Law School.
December 31, 2025: Dennis J. Shields concluded his presidential term.
January 1, 2026: Orlando F. McMeans began his service as interim president.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition follows the standard governance protocols set for the Southern University System. The move positions the institution to maintain continuity across its multi-campus network in Louisiana.
The selection of a new president will directly influence the strategic direction and administrative policies affecting students at Southern University campuses. Future updates regarding the final candidate will determine the long-term executive management of the state system.
The takeaway
The Board of Supervisors will soon conclude the search for a new president to provide stable leadership for the university system. Students and faculty can expect a formal announcement once the board completes its interview process with the finalists.
Further reading
For more updates on state leadership changes, visit Louisiana People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Journal of Blacks in Higher Education.
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