The Presidents of Southeastern

THE

PR E SI DE NTS OF SOU T H EA STER N

THE

PR E SI DE NTS OF SOU T H E ASTE RN 1925–2025

Linus Arthur Sims 1925–1933

Clea Edward Parker 1968–1980

Yves Leon Fontenot 1933–1937

James Larry Crain 1980–1986

Joseph Leon Clark 1937–1944

Grant Warren Smith 1986–1995

George William Bond 1944–1945

Sally Ilene Clausen 1995–2001

Gladney Jack Tinsley 1945–1951

Michael Randolph Moffett 2001–2008

Clark Leblanc Barrow 1952–1953

John Luther Crain 2008–2023

Luther Haley Dyson 1951–1952 and 1953–1967

William Scott Wainwright 2023–Present

J. B. Wooley 1967–1968

For a century, Southeastern Louisiana University has stood as a beacon of educational excellence, community engagement, and transformative leadership. From its humble beginnings in 1925, when Linus Sims dreamed of establishing a college to serve the citizens of Hammond and beyond, Southeastern has grown into a thriving institution that inspires generations of students, alumni, staff, and faculty. The university’s legacy is inseparable from the visionaries who have guided its path forward—the presidents whose dedication and leadership have shaped Southeastern’s identity and secured its place as a cornerstone of higher education in Louisiana.

This book celebrates the extraordinary leaders who have held the presidency at Southeastern, each of whom brought unique perspectives to their tenure, navigating the challenges and triumphs of their time. From the pioneering efforts of Sims, who laid the foundation for what would become one of the region’s most respected institutions, to the innovative strategies of William S. Wainwright, who is charting a bold course for Southeastern’s future, these presidents have embodied the values of perseverance, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Through their stories, we glimpse the evolution of Southeastern—its physical campus expanding to accommodate growing student populations, its academic programs diversifying to meet the demands of an everchanging world, and its cultural and community impact deepening with each passing decade. Together, these narratives form a rich tapestry that honors the past while illuminating the path to Southeastern’s next century.

Linus Arthur Sims 1925–1933 Linus A. Sims, the founding president of

of smaller class sizes, quality instruction, and

Southeastern, is celebrated as the visionary who

affordable education. Operating initially out of two

transformed Hammond’s aspiration of becoming

rooms in Hammond High School, the fledgling

a “college town without a college” into reality.

college rapidly outgrew its facilities, prompting

Educated at several different universities across

Sims to lead efforts to acquire the Hunter Leake

the US, Sims brought a diverse background to

estate in 1927, which became the heart of

his role, including experiences as a streetcar

Southeastern’s current campus.

conductor, shoe salesman, farmer, and preacher.

His declaration “We started with nothing but faith” epitomizes his relentless determination to establish the institution. Inspired by a 1925 speech

by Louisiana’s Superintendent of Public Education T. H. Harris, advocating for locally supported junior colleges, Sims seized the moment and galvanized community leaders like Oscar Donaldson and Lucius McGehee to champion the cause. Their efforts culminated in the establishment of Hammond Junior College on September 14, 1925, just nine months after Sims conceived the idea.

Sims’ leadership in the institution’s early years was marked by his unwavering commitment to its survival and growth. He personally oversaw the hiring of faculty, including D Vickers, whose contributions helped shape Southeastern’s academic foundation, and recruited students, ensuring the college had a graduating class in its first year. His pioneering vision extended beyond

Sims’ personal sacrifices underscore his dedication to the institution. From returning his paycheck to keep the college running to involving his family in unpaid roles, Sims exemplified selflessness in service to education. Despite facing fierce political and financial challenges, he secured state recognition for the college’s curriculum and ensured the transferability of its credits, which bolstered its reputation and credibility. By the time he left in 1933, Sims had laid a sturdy foundation for Southeastern, setting it on a trajectory of growth and excellence.

Even after leaving his post, Sims continued to contribute to Louisiana's education system, reinforcing his belief that education transforms lives and communities. His legacy lives on through Southeastern’s enduring commitment to access and quality education, a vision that continues to shape the institution a century later.

academics, as he also emphasized the importance

We started with nothing but faith. . . . The ambition of my entire life is now being consummated, and it is only natural that the advancement of our school in prestige and usefulness should be the greatest personal desire I might have.

Yves Leon Fontenot 1933–1937 Y. L. Fontenot assumed the Southeastern

buildings, including McGehee Hall. These

presidency during the Great Depression, a time

structures not only advanced the college’s

of immense financial strain. A Louisiana native

development but also offered jobs to struggling

with decades of teaching experience and a term

families in the Florida Parishes.

in the state legislature, Fontenot brought both educational and political expertise to the role.

Despite limited funding, he aimed to elevate Southeastern by advocating for accreditation, improving faculty pay, building academic facilities, and establishing a proper collegiate library.

Fontenot’s insistence on prioritizing academics over athletics often placed him at odds with community and state leaders, who pushed for a larger football stadium. Nevertheless, his leadership coincided with federally funded New Deal projects, such as those by the Works Progress Administration, which provided Southeastern with its first permanent campus

Fontenot’s lobbying efforts bore fruit in 1937 when Southeastern was authorized to offer bachelor’s degrees, cementing its place as a four-year institution. However, his confrontations with the State Board of Education over funding priorities ultimately led to his dismissal.

After leaving Southeastern, Fontenot continued his career in education as superintendent of the State School for the Blind in Baton Rouge. His tenure at Southeastern is remembered for his unwavering focus on academic excellence and his role in guiding the institution through one of its most formative and challenging periods.

McGehee Hall, 1934

Joseph Leon Clark 1937–1944 J. Leon Clark’s tenure as president was shaped

spaces, dormitories, and social areas. These

by his conservative budget policies and pragmatic

Works Progress Administration projects symbolized

leadership. Born on October 14, 1896, in Walters,

Southeastern’s commitment to growth despite

Louisiana, Clark began his career as a teacher

limited resources.

before earning advanced degrees, including a Ph D from the University of North Carolina in 1931. Before his presidency, he served as a high school principal, Southeastern’s director of teacher training, and a social sciences professor.

While Clark’s leadership advanced Southeastern’s development, his strict financial management and strained relationships with faculty and community members led to growing tensions, culminating in his removal in 1944. However, his contributions

Appointed president in 1937, Clark inherited a

to Southeastern’s growth during a turbulent era

growing institution that had recently transitioned

remain significant.

into a four-year college under his predecessor.

Building on this milestone, Clark played a crucial role in strengthening Southeastern’s academic offerings and implementing a four-year curriculum.

After his departure, Clark remained committed to education, teaching sociology at Louisiana State University until his death in 1961.

His tenure also saw significant infrastructure expansion, including projects like Strawberry Stadium, a dual-purpose facility housing athletic

The Apostle Paul beheld in a vision a man of Macedonia beseeching him to come over into Macedonia and help them in their great need. Although we have had no Pauline vision, we are facing the vivid realization that Southeastern is in great need and, like the man in Paul’s vision, we are sending our distress signal to the friends of Southeastern for increased support in forwarding the work that has already begun.

George William Bond 1944–1945 George W. Bond served as acting president during

During his brief presidency, Bond focused

a transitional period from 1944 to 1945. A quiet and

on maintaining continuity and addressing the

business-oriented leader, Bond was known for his

administrative needs of the growing college. His

strong organizational skills and ability to maintain

steady leadership ensured that Southeastern’s

stability during a critical time for the institution. His

academic programs remained stable and prepared

tenure was marked by the challenges of managing

the institution for future growth under new

the college in the aftermath of World War II, a

leadership. Although his tenure was short, Bond’s

time when higher education institutions across

ability to navigate the challenges of this period

the country were beginning to see an influx of

helped set the stage for the dynamic expansion

returning veterans and shifting societal priorities.

that would follow under Gladney Tinsley.

Born on April 6, 1891, in Summers, Arkansas, Bond

After his time at Southeastern, Bond returned to

brought extensive experience in education to his

Tech, where he served as a dean until 1956. He

role. Before his time at Southeastern, he served

later joined Harding College in Searcy, Arkansas,

as a superintendent of schools in Arkansas, a high

as a professor of education, where he continued

school principal, a professor and then dean at

his lifelong commitment to fostering academic

Louisiana Tech University, and president of Tech

excellence until his retirement in 1964.

from 1928 to 1936. His background in education and administration made him well-suited to lead Southeastern during a year of transition.

Meade Hall, 1945

Gladney Jack Tinsley 1945–1951 Gladney J. Tinsley is remembered as one of

1946, an accomplishment he regarded as his

Southeastern’s most transformative and beloved

greatest contribution.

presidents. His tenure, beginning in July 1945, marked the start of Southeastern’s “Golden Era,” coinciding with post-war optimism and growth.

A visionary, Tinsley emphasized shared governance and sought to foster community among students and faculty. He created teacher

Born on June 19, 1896, in Haynesville, Louisiana,

training conferences and introduced programs

Tinsley earned a doctor of education from Stanford

in industrial arts and business, diversifying

University in 1931. He brought to Southeastern

Southeastern’s academic offerings. His charisma

not only his academic expertise but also a

inspired confidence in Southeastern’s future, a

dynamic personality and unwavering dedication to

sentiment captured by his contemporary Luther

institutional progress.

Dyson: “Dr. Tinsley’s greatest contribution—and

Tinsley oversaw unprecedented growth during his presidency. The student body swelled, largely due to returning veterans under the GI Bill, and campus infrastructure expanded to accommodate the surge. The footprint of campus also greatly grew through the purchase of surrounding land, bringing

there were many—was the spirit of optimism, which he generated among the faculty and throughout the area served by the institution. There was a general ‘uplifting of the spirit’ and a feeling of confidence engendered about the future that replaced some of the doubts that had existed.”

Southeastern up to 365 acres. An avid gardener

Tragically, Tinsley’s tenure ended abruptly when

and agriculture expert with a variety of camellia

he passed away from a heart attack on December

named after him, he was also responsible for

8, 1951. His loss was deeply felt across campus,

implementing the camellia garden behind present-

and the legacy of his leadership endures.

day Garrett Hall.

Landmarks such as Tinsley Hall and the Tinsley

Notable other achievements included obtaining Southeastern’s full accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in

Camellia Gardens stand as enduring tributes to his contributions, while his influence continues to shape Southeastern’s mission and identity.

Southeastern Louisiana College has been a rapid and successful accomplishment in a short, hectic quarter-century. The personalities involved deserve much credit. Their success and the spirit and support of the people of the area furnish conclusive evidence of the need and the soundness of their vision.

Clark Leblanc Barrow 1952–1953 Clark L. Barrow’s presidency, though brief, left

Barrow emphasized community engagement and

an indelible mark on Southeastern history. Born

bolstered Southeastern’s reputation in the region.

in Plaquemine, Louisiana, on June 8, 1894,

While he only served for a year, his impact was

Barrow held extensive experience in education

felt in his efforts to strengthen the university’s

before joining Southeastern, having served as a

connections with its surrounding community.

teacher, principal, superintendent of East Baton Rouge Parish Schools, and in various roles within Louisiana’s State Department of Education. His academic credentials included a doctorate in education from Columbia University in 1939.

In 1953, Barrow left Southeastern to become the director of higher education in the Louisiana State Department of Education, a role for which his presidency had uniquely prepared him. Despite the brevity of his time at Southeastern, Barrow’s

Barrow’s leadership style was characterized by

colorful personality and dedication to education

accessibility and a hands-on approach. He was

remain fondly remembered as part of the

known for taking horseback rides across campus,

university’s history.

often peeking into classrooms and greeting students, adding a personable and memorable flair to his presidency. During his short tenure,

Classroom, 1953

Luther Haley Dyson 1951–1952 | 1953–1967

Luther Dyson’s 14-year presidency was a

also saw a rise in academic standards, requiring

transformative era for Southeastern, marked by

students to maintain higher GPAs to progress in

significant academic and physical expansion.

their studies and professionalizing faculty hiring

Known as the “Gentleman Scholar,” Dyson brought

and evaluation practices. His tenure established

a measured, diplomatic leadership style that

Southeastern as a leader in regional higher

balanced practicality with an unwavering focus on

education, earning respect for its academic rigor

improving the institution. Born and educated in

and campus improvements.

Louisiana, Dyson obtained his PhD from Louisiana State University and began his career teaching in Tangipahoa Parish schools in 1930. His experience as a teacher, school supervisor, and director of teacher training first led him to Southeastern in 1945, where he served as dean of the college,

Dyson’s collaborative approach extended beyond campus, as he worked closely with state officials to secure funding for Southeastern’s expansion.

His efforts laid the foundation for many of the university’s hallmark programs and facilities.

acting president in 1951 to 1952 following his close

When Dyson retired, Southeastern had evolved

friend Tinsley’s death, and then finally president

from a young college into a mature institution,

following Barrow’s resignation.

prepared to meet the demands of an ever-growing

Under Dyson’s leadership, the college experienced exceptional growth. He spearheaded the addition of new classroom buildings, science

student population. His many years of leadership left an enduring legacy of progress and excellence that continues to define Southeastern to this day.

facilities, dormitories and married student housing, a cafeteria, and a coliseum. Dyson’s administration

I’m very proud to see the growth that’s taken place in the years I’ve been away. It’s just nostalgic. I miss it, really. It was a very rewarding 23 years—possibly the best part of my professional life.

Part of my being is still at Southeastern; it always will be.

J. B. Wooley 1967–1968 J. B. Wooley stepped into the role of acting

of the institution while maintaining its high

president during a critical period, at the time of the

academic standards. Colleagues praised Wooley’s

illness of President Luther Dyson in 1967. While

firm yet compassionate leadership, with many

his tenure as acting president lasted less than a

describing him as a strong advocate for faculty

year, Wooley’s leadership ensured stability and

and students alike.

continuity during a time of uncertainty. Known for his straightforward, no-nonsense approach, Wooley ran the college with efficiency and a deep sense of responsibility.

After Dyson formally retired in 1968, Wooley returned to his previous administrative duties, stepping aside for Clea E. Parker to take over as president. Although Wooley’s time at the

Before his time as acting president, Wooley built

helm was brief, his steady hand and pragmatic

a distinguished career in education, including

leadership ensured that Southeastern continued

administrative roles at Southeastern that prepared

to thrive, setting the stage for the college’s next

him to lead during this transitional period. His

era of growth and development.

experience as an educator and administrator equipped him to manage the operational demands

Pottle Music Building, 1968

Clea Edward Parker 1968–1980 Clea E. Parker holds the distinction of being the

connections with students, staff, and faculty.

first Southeastern alumnus to serve as the school’s

Although his time was often stretched thin in the

president. Born in Mandeville, Louisiana, Parker

course of managing and advancing the institution,

was deeply connected to the institution and its

he could still be seen every morning having coffee

mission, having earned his undergraduate degree

in the cafeteria while engaging in conversations,

at Southeastern before acquiring master’s and

earning him a reputation as an approachable and

doctorate degrees in education from Louisiana

empathetic leader. Parker also expanded student

State University. His tenure as president marked

involvement by appointing attendees to university-

a period of substantial growth and transformation

wide committees and prioritizing their voices in

for Southeastern, which achieved university status

decision-making processes.

during his leadership.

Beyond infrastructure and student engagement,

Parker’s presidency was characterized by

Parker championed employee well-being,

significant infrastructure development and a

advocating for improved working conditions and

commitment to academic expansion. Under his

pay. His efforts to enhance graduate programs and

guidance, Southeastern saw the construction

foster academic excellence left a lasting impact

of major facilities, including the University

on Southeastern’s reputation as a regional leader

Center, Cate Teacher Education Center, and the

in higher education. After retiring in 1980, Parker

Humanities Building (now D Vickers Hall). He was

was named president emeritus and continued

also instrumental in securing legislative approval

contributing to education as an evaluator and

for the current Sims Memorial Library and the

liaison with the Louisiana State Board of Education.

School of Nursing building in Baton Rouge. These advancements not only supported a growing student population but also reflected Parker’s vision for a modern, forward-thinking university.

Parker’s 12-year tenure left an enduring legacy, shaping Southeastern into a university poised for future success. His leadership combined practical decision-making and energetic advocacy for the

A hallmark of Parker’s leadership was his open-

university with a personal commitment to fostering

door policy, which allowed him to build meaningful

a supportive, vibrant academic community.

I spend 50 to 60 percent of my time trying to find sources of revenue to aid in the development of this school.

James Larry Crain 1980–1986 J. Larry Crain led Southeastern through a period

development, emphasizing the institution’s role

of modernization and academic enhancement. A

in advancing the Florida Parishes.

native of Mississippi, Crain earned his PhD from the University of Southern Mississippi. His connection to Southeastern began as a faculty member in the biology department. He later ascended to administrative roles, including secretary of the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism, before returning to lead Southeastern as its president.

One of the most challenging decisions of Crain’s presidency was the discontinuation of Southeastern’s football program in 1985. Facing mounting financial pressures and mid-year budget cuts, Crain prioritized academic programs over athletics, reallocating the football budget to bolster library collections, student recruitment, and teaching resources. Though controversial, the

Crain’s tenure as president was marked by a shift

move reflected his commitment to Southeastern’s

toward strengthening the university’s academic

long-term stability. Reflecting on the financial

reputation. He focused on raising academic

struggles of his time, Crain said, “I really wonder

standards, promoting faculty research, and

what we could have done if we had money.”

introducing a university-wide honors program to recruit top students. His administration also achieved significant milestones, such as acquiring the Turtle Cove Environmental Research Station, a facility dedicated to environmental studies and research. Crain sought to position Southeastern as a regional leader in both education and cultural

Sims Memorial Library construction, 1984

Crain resigned in 1986 to become the system president for the Board of Trustees for State Colleges and Universities. His tenure remains notable for its emphasis on academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and a forward-thinking vision for Southeastern’s future.

Grant Warren Smith 1986–1995 G. Warren Smith, a chemist with an affinity for

support for incoming students with deficiencies

the arts, presided over Southeastern during its

in key areas, thus broadening access to higher

most significant growth period. Before becoming

education through Southeastern.

president, Smith served as Southeastern’s vice president for academic affairs beginning in 1984, following a distinguished academic career that included teaching posts at Cornell University and the University of Alaska and a deanship at the University of Houston. His tenure as president began in 1986 and spanned nearly a decade of remarkable achievements.

Under Smith’s leadership, enrollment doubled at Southeastern, increasing from approximately 7,000 students in 1986 to over 14,000 by 1995, making it the fastest-growing university in the nation during that time. Despite facing persistent budget challenges, Smith focused on strengthening academic programs. The College of Business and its accounting department earned national accreditation, the College of Education excelled in national exams, and the Nursing School commonly saw all its graduates pass their licensing

A champion of the arts, Smith supported the creation of Fanfare, which evolved into a regionally acclaimed month-long celebration of the arts, humanities, and social sciences. His holistic vision for the university included enhancing faculty research, securing external grants, and adding over 150 new faculty positions to support the rapidly growing student body.

Although well liked among the university community, Smith’s presidency ended in 1995 amidst tension with the Board of Trustees for State Colleges and Universities. He remained at Southeastern as a professor of chemistry and violinist in the university chamber orchestra before becoming president of Pennsylvania’s Slippery Rock University in 1998. His legacy at Southeastern is remembered as one of extraordinary growth, resilience, and academic advancement.

examinations. Smith also established the College of Basic Studies, designed to provide academic

My fondest hope is that the state of Louisiana will someday recognize what these valiant folks (Southeastern faculty, staff, community) have accomplished here.

Sally Ilene Clausen 1995–2001 Sally Clausen became Southeastern’s first

In 1998, Clausen reinvigorated the university’s

female president in 1995, distinguishing herself

historic “Macedonian Call,” urging the

as a dynamic and proactive leader with a deep

Southeastern community to appeal to state

commitment to advancing higher education. Her

legislators for better funding. Her approach

background included roles as a student affairs

mirrored the strategy used decades earlier by

officer and legislative liaison at Southeastern, as

Clark and reinforced the university’s commitment

well as a leadership position in Governor Edwin

to overcoming financial inequities. Clausen also

Edwards’ administration. This blend of institutional

spearheaded substantial improvements to the

knowledge and political acumen uniquely

campus infrastructure, including the construction

equipped her to tackle the challenges facing

of a new biological sciences building; renovations

Southeastern during her tenure.

to the Cate Teacher Education Center; and

When Clausen stepped into her role, Southeastern was grappling with a severe financial shortfall, exacerbated by years of underfunding. The university’s enrollment, close to 15,000 students, far exceeded the resources designed for a much

the development of Southeastern Oaks, which provided modern housing options for students.

Her tenure also marked a significant shift toward private fundraising, leading to the creation of endowed professorships and scholarships.

smaller population. Faculty salaries had stagnated

Clausen concluded her presidency in 2001 to

for nearly a decade. Clausen addressed these

become the first female president of the University

issues head-on, leveraging her advocacy skills

of Louisiana System, continuing her advocacy for

to secure increased funding. Her efforts led to

education at a statewide level. At Southeastern,

long-overdue salary increases, elevating faculty

her legacy is defined by her tireless efforts to

pay above the state average and boosting morale

secure resources, support faculty, and improve the

across campus.

university’s standing in the region and beyond.

Pennington Student Activity Center construction, 2000

Michael Randolph Moffett 2001–2008 Randy Moffett’s tenure as president was marked

school spirit, increased community engagement,

by his strategic vision and dedication to enhancing

and enhanced the university’s public image.

the university’s academic and athletic profile.

Moffett’s association with Southeastern began as a professor of education, where his leadership abilities quickly propelled him into administrative roles, including provost and vice president for academic affairs. When Sally Clausen transitioned to the presidency of the University of Louisiana

In addition to athletics, Moffett emphasized academic excellence and institutional growth. He was instrumental in the creation of “Vision 2005,” a strategic five-year plan designed to elevate Southeastern’s educational standards and expand its influence within Louisiana.

System, Moffett was named acting president and

In 2008, Moffett left Southeastern to follow in

later assumed the permanent role.

Clausen’s footsteps as president of the University

One of Moffett’s most notable achievements was the revival of the football program in 2003 after an 18-year hiatus. Recognizing the program's importance to campus life and alumni relations, Moffett worked to reestablish football and all its surrounding elements as a cherished part of

of Louisiana System, where he continued advocating for higher education throughout the state. His time at Southeastern is remembered for the significant strides made under his guidance and the strong foundation he built for the university’s future success.

Southeastern traditions. This effort revitalized

It is our desire at Southeastern to continue to grow and progress, to offer the academic programs that will enable our region to not just recover (Katrina), but to regenerate into the kind of state we all envision Louisiana becoming. That is our pledge to the people of Louisiana.

John Luther Crain 2008–2023 John Luther Crain, a native of Franklinton,

the completion of a new Student Union and the

Louisiana, saw six decades at Southeastern,

Computer Science and Technology Building; the

beginning with his undergraduate studies in 1978

construction of new residential facilities, including

and culminating in his interim presidency from

the innovative green energy-powered Ascension

2008 to 2009 then presidency from 2009 to 2023.

Hall and Twelve Oaks Hall; and the renovation of

Crain earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting

several academic buildings. Under his leadership,

and an MBA from the university before furthering

the university also launched a unified brand

his education with a doctorate in accountancy

platform to enhance its profile and positively

from the University of Mississippi. His professional

impact student recruitment and retention.

journey at Southeastern began in 1987 as an assistant professor of accounting. Over the years, he held various roles, including department head, president of the Faculty Senate, and provost and vice president for academic affairs. In July 2008, he was appointed interim president, and he officially became the university’s 14th president the following February.

During Crain’s presidency, Southeastern navigated numerous challenges, including significant state budget reductions, natural disasters such as Hurricane Ida, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite these obstacles, he spearheaded major facility and infrastructure improvements, such as

Computer Science and Technology Building, 2018

In recognition of his distinguished service, the University of Louisiana System Board awarded Crain the title of president emeritus in May 2024. Former UL System President and CEO Jim Henderson remarked, “The depth of service Dr. Crain has given to Southeastern over his enduring career is rare and admirable. His invaluable contributions will forever be a source of inspiration to the Lions and the higher education community.”

Crain’s tenure is remembered for his calming, steadfast leadership; commitment to academic greatness; and unwavering dedication to the Southeastern community.

William Scott Wainwright 2023–Present William S. Wainwright became the 15th president

including the D Vickers Hall renovation and the

of Southeastern on April 23, 2023. With over

Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center addition,

24 years of leadership experience in higher

the Dugas Hall renovation, and the construction

education, he previously served as chancellor of

of the academic and athletic training facility

Northshore Technical Community College (NTCC),

addition at Dugas Hall in partnership with North

where he oversaw exponential growth, tripling

Oaks Health System. These developments have

enrollment and expanding campuses. His tenure

bolstered the university’s facilities and reinforced

there earned NTCC recognition as one of the

its commitment to providing a comprehensive and

fastest-growing community colleges in the nation.

modern student experience.

Wainwright’s strong academic foundation includes degrees in criminal justice, adult education, and higher education administration, culminating in a PhD from the University of New Orleans, which prepared him for his impactful leadership roles.

In 2024, Wainwright launched the public phase of Southeastern's largest-ever fundraising campaign to mark its Centennial, which reached over $100 million by April 2025, supporting future growth.

He has also served on regional and state boards,

Since taking office at Southeastern, Wainwright

including Northshore Business Council; Greater

prioritized enhancing the university’s strategic

New Orleans, Inc.; Better Louisiana; and United

vision. He advanced “Vision 2025,” focusing

Way of Southeast Louisiana.

on academic innovation, student success, and regional economic impact. His leadership has included efforts to elevate enrollment and status, ensuring Southeastern remains accessible and competitive in a challenging higher education landscape. Wainwright also oversaw the completion of key campus improvement projects,

Building on a century of dedication and vision from his predecessors, Wainwright’s leadership is ushering Southeastern into a bold era of growth and innovation, strengthening its legacy as a beacon of higher education and a driving force for progress in Louisiana.

My best days are when I’m able to engage with our students and faculty.

I’m able to see the impact of our faculty on our students, whether it’s through their success in the classroom, their success after graduation, or their success as they rise through the ranks in business and industry.

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