University Communications

The Mississippi Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning has approved a new four-year contract for University of Southern Mississippi (USM) President Dr. Joe Paul, extending his tenure through December 31, 2028. Paul, who was appointed as USM’s 11th president in October 2022 after serving as interim president for nearly three months, has a more than 40-year career at the institution.
“I am deeply honored and immensely grateful to have the opportunity to serve my alma mater and our beloved Southern Miss as president,” Paul said. “This extension allows us to build upon the progress we have made together, and I look forward to continuing the good work of this institution with energy and urgency to positively impact our region, state, and beyond.”
Since assuming the role of president, Paul has focused on several key initiatives, including enhancing student recruitment and enrollment growth, supporting teaching and research efforts, revitalizing student life, surpassing the university’s capital campaign goal, engaging alumni, and bolstering Southern Miss Athletics through its transition to the Sun Belt Conference.
Further updates on President Paul’s extended tenure and its impact on the Southern Miss community will follow.