Published May 19, 2025
MONROE, LA – The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors has named Carrie Castille,
Ph.D., the tenth president of The University of Louisiana Monroe. Castille is the
first female president in the university’s nearly 94-year history.
“I am incredibly honored and grateful to be named the tenth president of this incredible
institution," said Castille. "I believe that great days are ahead for The University
of Louisiana Monroe. I look forward to working hard alongside the faculty, staff,
and community to provide the best education, experience, and opportunities for our
students. Go Warhawks!”
Castille’s appointment as president was made after the final round of interviews with
the Board of Supervisors in Baton Rouge on Monday, May 19. Castille was one of two
finalists interviewed for the university’s top position.
Following her appointment, Castille reflected on her journey to becoming president.
“It’s been an incredible process and an incredible journey. Going through this process,
you really learn a lot about yourself and your capabilities. You ask yourself if you
can meet the expectations of the role. Then you say, ‘I can do this’ and make the
decision and you commit to it,” said Castille.
Dr. Castille will assume the presidency following Board approval of her appointment
and contract.
About Carrie Castille
Carrie Castille most recently served as an Agriculture and Natural Resources Consultant,
providing strategic advice on agricultural policy and technical assistance at the
national, state, and local levels. She has held significant roles such as Senior Vice-Chancellor
and Senior Vice-President at the University of Tennessee, where she led agriculture
research and extension programs, and Director of the USDA’s National Institute of
Food and Agriculture, overseeing over $1.9 billion in funding for university partnerships.
Additionally, she has held leadership positions in the USDA, where she contributed
to policy development, crisis management, and economic recovery efforts.
Castille holds a Ph.D. in Renewable Natural Resources from Louisiana State University,
with a focus on environmental and public policy. She also holds a Master of Science
in Environmental Studies, with an emphasis on environmental policy and toxicology,
and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the University of Louisiana
at Lafayette.
