Newark, N.J. – Rutgers University has appointed William F. Tate IV, a celebrated social scientist and president of the Louisiana State University system since 2021, as its 22nd president.
Tate will assume the role on July 1, 2025, succeeding Jonathan Holloway, who will step down after a transformative five-year tenure.
The unanimous decision by the Rutgers Board of Governors, with consent from the Board of Trustees, reflects Tate’s alignment with the university’s mission and multi-campus identity.
Tate’s academic journey is marked by rigor and distinction. He holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Arts in mathematical sciences education from the University of Texas at Dallas, and a Ph.D. in mathematics education from the University of Maryland, College Park.
Tate’s research focuses on social determinants of educational
attainment, particularly in STEM fields for underrepresented groups.
His postdoctoral work includes fellowships at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Washington University School of Medicine, where he earned a Master’s in psychiatric epidemiology.
Elected to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences and the National Academy of Education, Tate’s research focuses on social determinants of educational attainment, particularly in STEM fields for underrepresented groups.
His leadership as a former president of the American Educational Research Association underscores his influence in shaping educational policy and practice.
Transformative Leadership at LSU
At LSU, Tate introduced the “Scholarship First Agenda,” prioritizing agriculture, biotechnology, coast, defense, and energy. This vision drove unprecedented fundraising, securing $245 million in gifts and $110 million from the Louisiana legislature in a single year.
As the first African American president in LSU’s history and the Southeastern Conference, Tate championed educational access through bridge programs for underserved students, starting as early as seventh grade. His strategic investments positioned LSU as a global leader in construction management and engineering, reinforcing his commitment to academic and operational excellence.
Rutgers’ Presidential Transition
Tate’s appointment follows a meticulous search led by the Rutgers Board of Governors. Amy L. Towers, chair of the board, emphasized Tate’s embodiment of Rutgers’ values as a transformative leader.
He succeeds Jonathan Holloway, who will conclude his presidency on June 30, 2025, before taking a sabbatical and joining the Henry Luce Foundation as president and CEO. Tate’s five-year contract includes a first-year base salary of $1.1 million, with potential total compensation exceeding $1.8 million, reflecting his stature as a University Professor and Distinguished Professor.
A Vision for Rutgers’ Future
Tate’s appointment signals Rutgers’ commitment to advancing its reputation as a leading public research university. His expertise in epidemiological and geospatial models aligns with Rutgers’ focus on innovation and inclusivity.
Tate aims to build on Holloway’s legacy by fostering financial pathways for students and expanding interdisciplinary research. His unanimous approval underscores confidence in his ability to navigate Rutgers’ complex, multi-campus system while addressing the needs of its diverse student body and faculty.
The Rutgers community eagerly anticipates Tate’s leadership, which promises to blend academic rigor with a deep commitment to social equity. As he prepares to take the helm, Tate’s vision is poised to shape the university’s trajectory, ensuring it remains a beacon of opportunity and scholarship in New Jersey and beyond.
75-Word Audio Summary
William F. Tate IV, president of LSU, has been named Rutgers University’s 22nd president, effective July 1, 2025. A distinguished scholar, Tate’s academic credentials and leadership in STEM education are unmatched. At LSU, he secured $245 million in gifts and championed underserved students. Succeeding Jonathan Holloway, Tate’s vision aligns with Rutgers’ mission of innovation and inclusivity, promising a transformative era for the university’s multi-campus community.
#RutgersPresident #WilliamTateIV #HigherEducation #LSU #NewJersey
Tags: William F. Tate IV, Rutgers University, LSU, Jonathan Holloway,
higher education, STEM, New Jersey, university president
Social Media Blurbs
X: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. LSU leader to steer Rutgers from July 2025. #RutgersPresident #HigherEducation bit.ly/rutgers-tate
Bluesky: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. Renowned scholar from LSU takes the helm in July 2025, succeeding Holloway. #RutgersPresident #HigherEducation bit.ly/rutgers-tate
LinkedIn: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. A trailblazing scholar and LSU president, Tate will lead Rutgers University starting July 2025. His expertise in STEM education and fundraising success at LSU positions him to advance Rutgers’ mission of innovation and inclusivity. #RutgersPresident #HigherEducation #Leadership https://www.stewardshipreport.org/rutgers-tate
Truth Social: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. Starting July 2025, LSU’s leader will guide Rutgers with a focus on academic excellence. #RutgersPresident bit.ly/rutgers-tate
Mastodon: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. From LSU to Rutgers, Tate’s scholarship and leadership will shape the university’s future starting July 2025. Join the conversation about his vision for higher education! #RutgersPresident bit.ly/rutgers-tate
Instagram: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. A new era begins at Rutgers in July 2025! Learn more via the link in bio.
#RutgersPresident #WilliamTateIV #HigherEducation #NewJersey #LSU
Facebook: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. Starting July 2025, the LSU president and STEM scholar will lead Rutgers University, building on its legacy of excellence. Discover how Tate’s vision will shape the future! #RutgersPresident #HigherEducation https://www.stewardshipreport.org/rutgers-tate
Reddit: William F. Tate IV Named Rutgers President. LSU’s leader will become Rutgers’ 22nd president in July 2025. With a focus on STEM and inclusivity, what impact do you think Tate will have on Rutgers’ future? #RutgersPresident bit.ly/rutgers-tate
