University of Louisiana System

Louisiana's colleges and universities will soon offer digital student IDs via LA Wallet, a phone app, under a new law effective August 1. The law, sponsored by Sen. Larry Selders, allows institutions to implement the system, with estimated costs ranging from $100,000 to $800,000 per system. Some universities are currently evaluating implementation, with potential delays before the fall semester.

Louisiana's colleges and universities will receive over $571 million in construction funding and $101 million for research and projects in the 2026-27 state budget. Key allocations include a $50 million STEM complex at Southern University, an LSU library, and upgrades at Louisiana Tech and Southeastern universities.

Mike Reese is the new president of McNeese State University with a $300,000 annual salary and will continue serving as a Louisiana state senator. His contract includes a car allowance and housing stipend until the presidential residence is repaired. University of Louisiana System President Rick Gallot stated that Reese's dual role is legal under state law.

U.S. auto sales in Q2 showed mixed results with General Motors reporting a 4% decline while Stellantis, Toyota, and Hyundai saw growth. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republicans urged President Donald Trump to let a Jones Act waiver expire, arguing it harms U.S. shipping and national security. LSU New Orleans held a ceremony to mark its return to the LSU System after 15 years under the University of Louisiana System.

The committee selecting the next Southern University System president is nearing completion of its search, with finalists expected within a month. Speculation exists about U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields, a Southern alumnus, being a candidate, though the committee has not identified specific individuals. The timeline was extended due to delays in hiring a search firm, and recent political changes in Louisiana have influenced the process.