NATCHITOCHES – Dr. Marcus Jones, president of Northwestern State University, announced plans for oversight of areas formerly under the supervision of Jerry Pierce, NSU’s vice president of External Affairs who passed away last week.
Pending approval from the University of Louisiana System, Dr. Drake Owens will serve as interim executive vice president, overseeing Public Information and Media Relations, NSU Press Publications, University Advancement, Robert W. Wilson Recreation Complex and Economic Development, Innovation and Outreach.
Cole Gentry, executive assistant to the president and director of Strategic Initiatives, will manage Marketing and Branding at NSU. Supervision of NSU Athletics and the Wellness, Recreation and Activities Center will fall directly under the president.
Jones informed the campus community of the changes via email Monday, adding, “Jerry Pierce was well-known throughout the state of Louisiana for his journalistic skills, storytelling abilities and deep legislative connections that assisted Northwestern in securing funding for many capital projects throughout his service to the university.” Pierce served on staff at NSU for 57 years and as vice president of External Affairs since 1990.
