Southern University Board Of Supervisors: Governance And Leadership

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The Southern University Board of Supervisors plays a crucial role in the governance and leadership of the Southern University System, which is a public university system in Louisiana. As the governing body of the university system, the Board of Supervisors is responsible for setting the overall direction and policies of the institution.

History and Background

The Southern University System was established in 1880 as a land-grant college for African Americans in Louisiana. Over the years, the university system has grown to include five campuses: Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, Southern University at New Orleans, Southern University at Shreveport, Southern University Law Center, and the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. The Board of Supervisors was established to provide oversight and governance to the university system.

Structure and Membership

The Southern University Board of Supervisors is composed of 16 members, including the Commissioner of Higher Education, who serves as an ex-officio member. The remaining 15 members are appointed by the Governor of Louisiana, with the consent of the Louisiana Senate. Members serve six-year terms, with three members' terms expiring each year.

The Board of Supervisors is led by a chairman, who is elected by the members of the Board. The chairman serves a two-year term and is responsible for presiding over meetings of the Board and setting the agenda.

Responsibilities and Powers

The Southern University Board of Supervisors has a range of responsibilities and powers, including:

• Setting the overall direction and policies of the university system
• Approving budgets and financial plans
• Overseeing the management of the university system's facilities and resources
• Approving academic programs and curricula
• Evaluating the performance of the university system's presidents and chancellors
• Approving personnel actions, including appointments and promotions

The Board of Supervisors also has the power to establish committees and task forces to advise it on specific issues and to conduct investigations and hearings as needed.

Academic Governance

The Board of Supervisors has a significant role in academic governance, including approving academic programs and curricula. The Board also has the power to establish academic policies and procedures, including those related to admissions, student affairs, and faculty evaluation.

Challenges and Opportunities

The Southern University Board of Supervisors faces a range of challenges and opportunities, including:

• Ensuring the financial sustainability of the university system
• Improving academic outcomes and student success
• Enhancing diversity and inclusion on campus
• Building partnerships with businesses and community organizations
• Responding to changing state and federal policies

Despite these challenges, the Board of Supervisors has a number of opportunities to make a positive impact on the university system and the state of Louisiana.

Strategic Planning

The Board of Supervisors has developed a strategic plan to guide the university system's development over the next five years. The plan includes goals and objectives in areas such as academic excellence, student success, diversity and inclusion, and community engagement.

Conclusion

The Southern University Board of Supervisors plays a critical role in the governance and leadership of the Southern University System. With its responsibilities and powers, the Board has the opportunity to make a positive impact on the university system and the state of Louisiana. As the university system continues to evolve and grow, the Board of Supervisors will be essential in shaping its future.

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