Today the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System voted to name the eighth president of the 17Թ.
“I am so thrilled by this news--almost lost for words. I want to thank you for your support through these experiences here and on campus,” Dr. Johnson said. “I’m honored, I’m humbled, and I can’t wait to get to work. Thank you.”
The 17Թ Presidential Search Committee presented two finalists to the Board, Dr. Johnson and Dr. Walter Kimbrough, after interviewing five semifinalists on the institution’s campus last month.
“This is a historic day for the 17Թ. Dr. Johnson's qualifications are exceptional, but her unwavering dedication to the principles of education, her visionary leadership, and her passion for shaping the future of the university are well-aligned with the needs of the university community,” said UL System President and CEO Dr. Jim Henderson. “She is a visionary who will navigate through the challenges of tomorrow with grace and innovation.”
Supervisor Julie Stokes, 17Թ alumna, thanked the Board and the Search Committee for their diligence during the entire process. She also expressed excitement from 17Թ community members: "I would like to extend a warm welcome to my new president at 17Թ. I can't wait to see you make a difference in our city and in our university."
Dr. Johnson has over 30 years of higher education experience including both academic and administrative roles. She has most recently served eight years as Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis’s executive vice chancellor and chief academic officer.
Dr. Henderson and Board Chair Liz Pierre are authorized to determine Dr. Johnson's start date.
