January 6th 2024.
On January 4th, Grambling State University announced Dr. Connie Walton as their Interim President. Walton had previously served the university as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. She replaces Rick Gallot, who was named the University of Louisiana System President in October 2023. Gallot is also chairing a committee leading the search for the university's next president.
Walton expressed her excitement about her new role in a statement to KSLA 12, stating that it was an additional way for her to serve the great institution and help shape the lives of students. She had known as an undergraduate student at Grambling State University that she wanted to come back and be part of the faculty.
Gallot supports Walton's appointment, telling KSLA 12 that he is confident that the university will be in safe hands under her interim leadership. Walton had originally been reluctant to take on the role but, after much conversation, she agreed to serve in the interim term only.
The Board of Supervisors will vote on whether to ratify Walton's appointment in February. Gallot indicated that he will remain connected to Grambling in a different capacity, having full confidence in the cabinet and vice presidents around Dr. Walton.
The appointment was delayed due to waiting for Louisiana Tech's new president and former University of Louisiana System President Jim Henderson's new contract to be finalized, which happened on December 16th. The board also waited for Gallot's new contract, which was finalized on December 31st.
The preferred deadline for applications for the open president position is January 12th. The search committee will pick semi-finalists at their next meeting on January 22nd, followed by interviews on February 5th and the final selection to be made by February 22nd.
Dr. Connie Walton is a great addition to Grambling State University and will be an amazing leader for the institution in the interim period. Gallot's trust in her and the administration around her provides a sense of security and confidence that the university will continue to move forward.
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