Big Changes Ahead: LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil Announces Retirement!

After eight years leading Louisiana State University of Alexandria, Chancellor Paul Coreil has announced plans to retire on July 1, 2026.

Coreil’s leadership marked a period of significant transformation for the university. Since 2019, LSUA has experienced major growth, with enrollment increasing by 145 percent as the university expanded academic programs aimed at meeting Louisiana’s workforce and healthcare demands.

Coreil previously served as interim chancellor in 2013 before returning to lead the university again in 2019. His approach emphasized bold thinking and strong connections between the university and the communities it serves.

“Serving as Chancellor has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” Coreil said when announcing his retirement.

During his tenure, LSUA saw enrollment climb to more than 8,000 students, making it the fastest-growing university in Louisiana over the past four years and now the fifth-largest university in the state. National data has also ranked LSUA among the fastest-growing regional universities in the country.

Under Coreil’s direction, the university expanded several programs designed to address workforce shortages. These efforts included growth in the Professional Aviation program at England Airpark, along with initiatives such as Accountants for the Future and Educators Rising, which aim to strengthen pipelines into key professions.

LSUA also broadened opportunities for students pursuing healthcare careers. Programs such as the IPP Pre-Med program, the LEAD V Pre-Veterinary program with LSU, and a 3+3 Occupational Therapy pathway with LSU Health Shreveport were introduced to help students move more quickly into high-demand fields.

The university is also planning a Health Education Campus intended to expand nursing and allied health training in central Louisiana.

Throughout his time as chancellor, Coreil often described LSUA as a public institution that belongs to the people of Louisiana and should work to help solve challenges facing the state.

As his retirement approaches, university leaders say the institution is well positioned for continued progress. Enrollment continues to rise, academic programs are expanding, and partnerships with employers and healthcare providers remain strong.

Coreil’s time at LSUA concludes more than four decades of service within the LSU System, leaving behind a university that has grown significantly and continues to build momentum for the future.