Howard Boyd named Tulane University general counsel

Howard Boyd, a widely respected attorney and longtime member of Tulane University's Office of the General Counsel, has been appointed to the office's top position, effective July 1, 2026.

Boyd has served as deputy general counsel at Tulane since July 2022. He will succeed Victoria "Tori" Johnson, who will step down as Tulane's general counsel after more than three decades of distinguished service to the university.

"Howard is an outstanding lawyer, a trusted adviser and a highly respected member of our university community," said Tulane University President Michael A. Fitts. "He brings deep legal expertise, institutional knowledge and genuine care for Tulane and its people. The Office of the General Counsel has played an increasingly important role in Tulane's growth as a nationally and internationally recognized research university. As we continue our historic expansion and navigate an ever more complex legal and regulatory landscape, he is the perfect choice to lead the office at this vital moment."

Boyd joined Tulane in January 2015 and quickly developed a reputation for building strong relationships across campus and beyond that furthered the university's academic and research mission. He has worked closely with university leaders, faculty and staff on a wide range of regulatory, governance and litigation matters, while helping the university approach multifaceted issues with sound judgment, collaboration and adherence to the highest legal and ethical standards.

As general counsel, Boyd will lead the Office of the General Counsel in advising the university on legal matters that advance Tulane's academic, research, clinical and operational priorities as the university continues it unprecedented upward trajectory.

"The role of General Counsel is central to any organization, but especially a university like Tulane that is currently experiencing exponential growth and momentum." Boyd said. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve Tulane alongside our outstanding legal team of staff and attorneys as we move forward."

After graduating from Georgetown University Law Center, Boyd began his legal career at a large national law firm in his hometown of Houston. He moved to New Orleans in 1999 and worked as a commercial litigator and employment lawyer in private practice before joining Tulane.

"The focus at Tulane has always been to further discovery and the free exchange of information and ideas and to be among the most innovative and impactful universities anywhere," Boyd added. "I'm excited to build on what we've done and to continue supporting the university in a way that is thoughtful, constructive and aligned with its mission."

In recognition of her longstanding contributions to the university, Fitts and the Board of Tulane have appointed Johnson general counsel emeritus. In this role, she will continue supporting Tulane as she advances select projects and helps transition several important initiatives, while ensuring continuity of legal governance and an orderly succession.

"For more than 35 years, Tori has helped guide Tulane through periods of significant growth, challenge and transformation with exceptional judgment, integrity and unwavering dedication to the institution," Fitts said. "Her deep understanding of Tulane, higher education and the law has made her an invaluable advisor not only to me but also to countless university leaders, trustees, faculty and staff."

Boyd credited Johnson as an exceptional leader and mentor who set a "lasting standard for all of us."