Meet Our New Provost

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

Our search for a Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is complete, thanks to input from so many of you.

Our search process was thorough. It yielded two outstanding finalists, Dr. Paula Carson and Dr. James Henderson, from a pool of 72 candidates for this critical position.

I am pleased to announce that Dr. Henderson, currently the Dean of the College of Natural and Social Sciences at California State University – Los Angeles, will serve as our University’s next Provost. Aside from his role as our Vice President for Academic Affairs, he will hold academic rank as professor of mathematics. He will join us in January, subject to approval by the UL System Board of Supervisors.

In my discussions with faculty, staff, students and community leaders, there were several common observations that you shared about Dr. Henderson. He was often described as “approachable.” You commented on his active listening skills. You cited his experience leading a comprehensive college. His record of faculty development and student success, including academic support and retention, also stood out.

Prior to his tenure at Cal State-Los Angeles, Dr. Henderson served as a Vice Chancellor at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and as a Dean and Department Chair at Colorado College. Dr. Henderson is a native of Louisiana and spent considerable time in Acadiana when his parents lived in Lafayette after his graduation from high school, so he understands who we are and appreciates our region’s cultures.

I want to thank the search committee, chaired by Dr. Melinda Oberleitner. She and the committee exemplified collaboration and determination, two key aspects of success. Also, multiple employees, students and community leaders participated in forums and shared observations to the benefit of our search.

We are grateful to Dr. Bradd Clark, who for the last few months has served as Interim Provost, and Dr. Carolyn Bruder for her nearly three years of service as Interim Provost. Both of these faculty members did not simply fill a seat; they are leaders who helped advance the University.

We appreciate Dr. Carson’s ongoing service to the University. She plays a vital role in so many areas important to the University and its progress. As Assistant Vice President for Institutional Planning and Effectiveness she greatly contributes to academic assessments, learning outcomes, strategic planning, and community outreach, ranging from economic development to culture, arts and heritage. She is a valued and important leader in our community.

Dr. Henderson looks forward to returning to Lafayette with his wife. He is eager to facilitate the University’s growing national recognition. He has expressed interest in further developing partnerships and reinforcing the strong sense of community we cherish at UL Lafayette.

We look forward to Dr. Henderson’s arrival to campus in January.

Sincerely,

E. Joseph Savoie
President
president@louisiana.edu