Southern University System Presidential Search Committee announces finalists for system president

The Southern University System Presidential Search Committee today announced the selection of three finalists for the position of president of the Southern University System, marking a significant milestone in the search for the next leader of the nation's only historically Black university system.

Following a comprehensive review and evaluation of candidates, including in-person interviews with six semifinalists, the committee selected the following individuals to advance to the final stage of the search process:

Brian K. Bridges, Ph.D.
Senior Advisor, Whiteboard Advisors
Former Secretary of Higher Education, State of New Jersey (2020-2025)

Roscoe Jones, J.D.
Former Dean, Drake University Law School

Larissa Littleton-Steib, Ph.D.
Chancellor, Delgado Community College

The finalists were selected following a thorough evaluation of their professional qualifications, leadership experience, demonstrated accomplishments, and vision for advancing the Southern University System's mission of academic excellence, research, innovation, and public service.

"This has been a thoughtful, rigorous and deliberate process, and I commend the members of the Southern University System Presidential Search Committee for their dedication and commitment to identifying exceptional leaders who understand the unique mission and opportunities of the Southern University System," said Jason Hughes, chair of the Presidential Search Committee. "Our committee approached this responsibility with a shared commitment to transparency and fairness to identify candidates with the experience, vision, and leadership necessary to guide the System into its next chapter. We are confident that the finalists we are advancing to the Board of Supervisors represent strong candidates who are well-positioned to build upon Southern's legacy while advancing its future."

The national search has been conducted with the assistance of TM² Executive Search, which has supported the committee throughout the recruitment, candidate evaluation and selection process. The search has also included opportunities for engagement with faculty, staff, students, alumni and other stakeholders across the Southern University System.

Next Steps in the Presidential Search
The finalists will now advance to the Southern University System Board of Supervisors for interviews and further consideration. The Board will conduct interviews with the finalists before making its final selection of the next System president.

Additional information regarding the schedule and format of the Board interviews will be announced as details are finalized.

The next president will succeed Dennis J. Shields, who concluded his tenure on Dec.31, 2025. Orlando F. McMeans has served as interim president since Jan. 1.

For more information on the search, go towww.sus.edu/presidentsearch2026.

About the Southern University System
The Southern University System is the nation's only historically Black university system, encompassing five campuses and units across Louisiana: Southern University and A&M College, Southern University Law Center, and Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center in Baton Rouge; Southern University at New Orleans; and Southern University at Shreveport. The System is committed to providing accessible, high-quality educational opportunities, advancing research and innovation, and serving communities throughout Louisiana and beyond.