LSU System Names Four Finalists for LSUNO Chancellor
The LSU System has selected four candidates to lead Louisiana State University of New Orleans during its transition.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in People
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The LSU System President announced four finalists to serve as the next Chancellor of Louisiana State University of New Orleans. This selection comes as the university officially transitions into the broader LSU System.
Why it matters
The appointment of a new permanent leader is a critical step for LSUNO as it navigates the administrative and structural changes required by its integration into the LSU System.
The LSU System has identified 4 finalists for the Chancellor position at LSUNO. These candidates represent the short list selected to lead the institution as it moves through a transition period.
The players
Sebastian van Delden
He currently serves as a provost and vice president for academic affairs at Winthrop University.
Michal J. Savoie
He serves as the Vice Provost of the University of North Texas and Dean of the College of Applied and Collaborative Studies.
Jeanette R. Weiland
She serves as the Interim Chancellor and Chief Administrative Officer of LSUNO.
Kent L. Willis
He is the Senior Vice President for Enrollment and Student Engagement at Stephen F. Austin State University.
The details
The four candidates include Sebastian van Delden, Michal J. Savoie, Jeanette R. Weiland, and Kent L. Willis. During their upcoming campus visits, they will meet with university faculty and staff to discuss their vision for the school.
Timeline
The LSU System President announced the four finalists on October 27, 2026.
The finalists will begin their visits to the New Orleans campus on November 3, 2026.
The scheduled campus visits for the chancellor candidates conclude on November 4, 2026.
Market Landscape
The search for a new Chancellor extends the university's efforts to finalize its administrative integration process. This hiring process positions the institution to align its leadership with the strategic goals of the broader LSU System.
The selection of a new Chancellor will directly influence the future academic policies and administrative direction of the university. Faculty, staff, and students can expect changes to campus governance as the new leadership takes over during the transition.
The takeaway
The upcoming campus visits provide a key opportunity for the university community to engage directly with the candidates. Engaging with these sessions helps stakeholders understand the future leadership priorities for the institution.
Further reading
For more information on university leadership shifts, visit the New Orleans People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Fox8live.
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