BATON ROUGE, La – Commissioner of Higher Education Jim Purcell and Board of Regents Chairman Bob Levy released the following statements in response to Regent Scott Ballard’s appointment to the LSU Board of Supervisors.

“Today’s announcement concerning Regent Ballard is a win-win,” said Board of Regents Chairman Bob Levy.  “Citizen leaders who have an understanding of our entire enterprise, and are able to build relationships across systems and campuses, will be critical as we look for ways to increase our efficiency and productivity.  Scott’s experience on the Board of Regents will undoubtedly guide his work on the LSU Board of Supervisors and lead to even greater coordination among our organizations as we address the important issues facing higher education.”  

“Regent Ballard has proven to be a valuable member of the Board of Regents,” said Commissioner of Higher Education Jim Purcell concerning today’s announcement.  “During his tenure Scott very quickly learned the mechanics of our operation so that he could understand how and why decisions are made at the Regents’ level.  I think his knowledge of higher education and the relationships he’s built with our board and our staff will be a valuable asset as he transitions to the LSU Board of Supervisors.  I look forward to our continued collaboration and work together.”  

Ballard was appointed to the Board of Regents in December, 2011. He is from Covington, Louisiana and is President and CEO of PJ’s Coffee of New Orleans.