The University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors announced Friday that state education superintendent Cade Brumley will assume the role of system president, succeeding Rick Gallot whose resignation takes effect Dec. 1. Brumley, a longtime ally of Governor Jeff Landry, was chosen despite speculation that he might pursue other opportunities in state or federal government.
Background on the transition
Gallot’s departure follows a recent report that he owes $350,000 in back taxes and faces a federal tax lien in East Baton Rouge Parish. Gallot has not responded to requests for comment. The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education will need to fill Brumley’s superintendent seat, though a timeline has not been set.
Brumley’s credentials and policy record
Brumley was hired as state superintendent in 2020 under former Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards. Since taking office, he has overseen notable gains in statewide test scores and improved Louisiana’s education ranking. Prior to his state role, he led the public school systems in DeSoto and Jefferson parishes.
In the past two years, Brumley has become a vocal supporter of Governor Landry’s education agenda, including the LA GATOR voucher program that would direct tens of millions of public dollars to private schools. While legislators have not yet expanded the program to the level the administration desires, Brumley’s advocacy has kept school‑choice issues at the forefront of state policy discussions.
Compensation comparison
Gallot earned an annual salary of $522,000 for the current academic year, plus a $54,000 housing allowance and a $24,000 car allowance. By contrast, Brumley’s current superintendent salary is $323,939 with a $24,000 car allowance but no housing benefit, according to state budget documents. The move to the UL System is expected to increase Brumley’s overall compensation.
Political context
The UL System board’s decision aligns with Governor Landry’s broader effort since taking office in 2024 to place his preferred candidates in key higher‑education positions across the state, including at LSU, McNeese State, Northwestern State, the University of Louisiana‑Lafayette and the Louisiana Community and Technical College System.
When the board appointed Gallot and former Louisiana Tech president Jim Henderson in October 2023, all board members were appointees of then‑Governor John Bel Edwards, a Democrat. Landry’s influence grew after his inauguration, and he delayed Gallot’s hiring while governor‑elect to ensure the candidate aligned with his education vision.
What’s next?
Brumley could not be reached for comment on Friday. The Board of Supervisors has not disclosed a timeline for selecting a new state superintendent, leaving that vacancy open as the new UL System president prepares to take office.
The transition marks another significant shift in Louisiana’s higher‑education leadership, reflecting Governor Landry’s ongoing strategy to align university governance with his education‑choice priorities.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
