Dr. Savoie Steps Down As University President

Dr. E. Joseph Savoie, a two-time graduate of UL and the university’s sixth president, officially announced his resignation on July 30, 2025, concluding a 17‑year tenure of transformative leadership. With his last day set for Thursday, July 31, 2025, the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors has named him President Emeritus.

Savoie’s tenure, which began in 2008, was defined by expansive growth across research, infrastructure, fundraising, academic programming, and community engagement.

Key Accomplishments Under Savoie

• Carnegie R1 Status: UL achieved the elite R1 classification in 2022, marking it among the top 5% of U.S. research universities.
• Research Funding Milestone: External research awards surpassed $250 million annually for the first time in school history.
• Largest Fundraising Campaign: The most ambitious and successful fundraising drive in university history launched and closed under his leadership.
• Campus Development: Major building projects and renovations included expansion of academic and research facilities, student housing, athletic facilities, plus new construction of a Student Union and Our Lady of Lourdes Stadium.
• Academic Expansion: Numerous new undergraduate and graduate programs were introduced, including the Health Sciences Campus, supporting both workforce readiness and academic excellence.
• Leadership in Statewide Higher Education: Prior to his presidency, Savoie served 12 years as Louisiana Commissioner of Higher Education, working under three governors and championing accessibility and affordability.

Interim President: Dr. Jaimie L. Hebert

With Dr. Savoie’s departure, Dr. Jaimie L. Hebert, UL Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs since 2018, has been appointed Interim President while the search for a permanent successor proceeds.

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Dr. Hebert’s Credentials & Career Highlights

• Long-standing ties to UL: A native of Abbeville, Louisiana, Hebert earned all three of his degrees—B.S. (1986), M.S. (1988), and Ph.D. in Statistics (1990)—from UL.
• Leadership across institutions:
  
  
  • Served as President of Georgia Southern University (2016–2018), where he managed the consolidation with Armstrong State University.
  • Prior roles include Provost and VP for Academic Affairs at Sam Houston State University (2011–2016), Dean of Arts & Sciences (2005–2011), and Department Chair and Professor of Statistics (1999–2005).
  • Began his academic career as Assistant Professor of Mathematical Science at Appalachian State University (1990–1995).
    

Leadership Focus as UL Provost

Since taking office at UL, Dr. Hebert has spearheaded the university’s strategic plan, overseen academic program expansion and accreditation, and advocated for student success and faculty excellence. President Savoie described him as deeply committed to empowering the institution and continuing the momentum built over nearly two decades.

Moving Forward

Dr. Savoie departs with deep gratitude from the university and the state, described by system leadership as “a once‑in‑a‑generation leader.” Meanwhile, Dr. Hebert, an alumnus with proven administrative experience, is well positioned to guide UL through this transition with continuity and vision. The official search for a permanent President will start in the near future.

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