LSU Chief of Staff Jason French Will Depart University
Jason French announced he will conclude his tenure as Louisiana State University Chief of Staff this November.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in People
LSU Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of External Relations Jason French announced his resignation on September 24, 2026. He is scheduled to complete his final day at the university on November 5, 2026.
Why it matters
French held the role for one year under a specific agreement designed to lead the university through a presidential transition period. He plans to return to his private public affairs firm, French Cole Strategies, following his departure.
Jason French served a one-year term as the Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of External Relations at LSU. He oversaw administrative restructuring and launched a chancellor search during his time in the post.
The players
Jason French
He is the outgoing LSU Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of External Relations who previously worked at the firm French Cole Strategies.
Wade Rousse
He serves as the President of Louisiana State University and was previously advised by Jason French.
French Cole Strategies
This is a private public affairs firm that Jason French will return to following his departure from LSU.
The details
French previously served as a senior adviser to LSU President Wade Rousse before stepping into the Chief of Staff role. In addition to his administrative duties, he managed the university through its leadership transition phase.
Timeline
November 5, 2025: Jason French began his tenure at LSU.
September 24, 2026: Jason French announced his departure on LinkedIn.
November 5, 2026: Jason French will complete his final day at LSU.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition follows the conclusion of the university's presidential transition framework. The departure marks the completion of a tenure aligned specifically with these organizational goals at the state institution.
The transition to a new Chief of Staff may shift administrative priorities at the university as the search for a permanent successor begins. Students and faculty can monitor official university communications for updates on how this change affects ongoing initiatives.
The takeaway
French's exit underscores the temporary nature of transition-focused leadership roles within large academic institutions. His return to private practice reflects the typical rotation of executives moving between high-level public administration and private consulting.
Further reading
For more updates on leadership changes in the region, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Reveille.
