Robert Brown|Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jimmy Genovese to lead Northwestern State

NATCHITOCHES,Robert Brown La. (AP) — Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jimmy Genovese has been named as Northwestern State University’s next president by the state board that regulates the school.

The University of Louisiana System board on Thursday named the associate justice to replace Marcus Jones, who is taking a senior position with the University of Louisiana System. Genovese, of Opelousas, will assume his new role in August.

Genovese, 74, does not have experience in higher education or overseeing a large institution, but he is well-liked for his outgoing personality, The Advocate reported. He has been a judge at various levels since 1975 and spent the past eight years on the seven-member state Supreme Court in a district that stretches along the western border of Louisiana.

“Throughout his career, Justice Genovese has demonstrated exemplary public service and leadership,” said Mark Romero, chair of the UL System’s Board of Supervisors. “I’m confident in President Genovese’s ability to rally the NSU community and make a significant impact in driving positive change. His commitment to strengthening NSU’s legacy is evident, and we are dedicated to supporting him.”

In a statement, Genovese said he’s excited about his new role.

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“Northwestern holds a special place in my heart,” he said. “As an alumnus, returning to lead this remarkable institution is a privilege. My vision is to foster a collaborative and innovative environment that not only prioritizes student success but also increases enrollment to shape future leaders for Louisiana and beyond.”

Genovese’s departure from the state’s high court, two years before his 10-year term ends, will lead to an election in the spring of 2025 to replace him.

The decision by the University of Louisiana System board was expected — Genovese had the support of Gov. Jeff Landry and key leaders, and the board chair truncated the selection process, the newspaper said.

A presidential search process began in June and candidate interviews were held Tuesday. The board interviewed the finalist and selected the new president Thursday.

In his remarks to the board, Genovese said he is concerned about the university’s decline, which includes a 22% drop in enrollment over the past four years, the newspaper reported. He said he would aggressively market the university to potential students and use his contacts with state legislators to seek more funding for the school.

“Northwestern is a diamond in the rough,” he said.