Dear NSU Faculty, Staff, Students, Alumni and Friends:
Earlier today, I notified University of Louisiana System President Dr. Jim Henderson of my plan to retire from Northwestern State University on June 30, 2021.
This is a decision that was made during prayerful deliberation with my family and was based entirely on considerations of our family’s future plans and aspirations. There has been no pressure or even the slightest nudge from anyone for me to step down from the presidency.
It has been an honor to serve as president of this great institution since 2017 and as a member of the faculty, staff and administration at NSU for 33 years.
My love for Northwestern has grown continually since enrolling as a freshman at the school four decades ago. The opportunity to serve students, work collegially with faculty and staff and interact with alumni and supporters of the university has been enjoyable and rewarding.
As gratifying as it has been to work over the years in athletics, recruitment and enrollment management, alumni and development, student affairs and as a vice-president and president, those responsibilities have necessitated extensive time away from my family.
Retirement will allow me to spend more time with family and friends and to explore new opportunities for serving others in education or related areas.
It is certainly my plan to serve Northwestern until the retirement date and to assist in the transition to new leadership in any way possible.
My career at Northwestern has been much more pleasure than work. The memories of student achievements, faculty and staff accomplishments, athletic success and alumni philanthropy and support will make these years at Northwestern forever meaningful.
The university’s vital role and prominence in Louisiana and the region continues to expand, and it has been exhilarating to be a part of the school’s growing impact on lives and communities.
Northwestern has a bright future, and I will always cherish my time here as a student, faculty member and administrator.
Please accept my very best wishes for your continued wellbeing and success. I hope each of you will join me in continuing to support and promote this university that is so important to all of us and which we hold in such great esteem. And as always…
Fork ‘em Demons!
Chris Maggio
