Nicholls State University Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Nicholls State University has 4 executives leading key functions including information technology, institutional ownership, academic administration, and alumni relations.

Committed to academic excellence and regional development, Nicholls State University fosters a transformative learning environment that empowers students to achieve professional success while contributing meaningfully to the economic and cultural vitality of the Louisiana region.

Leadership Roles at Nicholls State University

  • Owner President - David Soileau
  • President - Jay Clune
  • President of Alumni Federation - Brooke Huddleston
  • Chief Information Officer - Sam Cagle
  • David Soileau - Owner President

    David Soileau, the Owner President at Nicholls State University, manages the overarching strategic vision and fiscal health of the institution. Overseeing long-term capital planning and institutional sustainability, the Owner President ensures alignment between university resources and academic goals. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and fostering partnerships that expand the university's reach across the Southern United States. By optimizing operational workflows, David Soileau directly impacts the university's ability to deliver high-quality education to a diverse student body. The Owner President coordinates with the Board to refine institutional policies, driving growth in enrollment and research output. Through disciplined financial oversight and proactive market positioning, Soileau secures the stability of the university, ensuring that the institution remains a cornerstone of academic and professional development for the region.

    Jay Clune - President

    Jay Clune, the President at Nicholls State University, leads the academic mission and executive administration of the university. Overseeing faculty development, curriculum innovation, and student success initiatives, the President ensures that the institution maintains rigorous academic standards. This leadership role involves representing the university to external stakeholders, government bodies, and community partners to secure funding and support for campus expansion. By championing inclusive excellence, Jay Clune directly impacts the educational outcomes and career readiness of the student population. The President collaborates with department heads to align academic programs with evolving industry demands, driving the university's reputation as a leader in higher education. Through visionary leadership and a focus on community engagement, Clune secures the future of the institution, fostering an environment where research and teaching thrive in tandem.

    Brooke Huddleston - President of Alumni Federation

    Brooke Huddleston, the President of Alumni Federation at Nicholls State University, directs engagement strategies and outreach programs for the global network of university graduates. Overseeing fundraising campaigns, networking events, and mentorship initiatives, the President of Alumni Federation ensures strong connections between the institution and its alumni base. This leadership role involves cultivating donor relationships and promoting the university's achievements to enhance institutional prestige. By facilitating professional development opportunities for graduates, Brooke Huddleston directly impacts the university's ability to leverage its alumni network for student internships and career placement. The President of Alumni Federation coordinates with university leadership to align alumni activities with the broader strategic goals of the institution. Through consistent communication and community building, Huddleston secures ongoing support and advocacy for the university, strengthening the bond between past and present members of the campus community.
    Brooke Huddleston

    Sam Cagle - Chief Information Officer

    Sam Cagle, the Chief Information Officer at Nicholls State University, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework supporting the entire campus community. Overseeing cybersecurity protocols, network reliability, and data management systems, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless integration of academic and administrative software. This leadership role involves architecting scalable cloud solutions that facilitate remote learning and research initiatives across the university. By modernizing legacy systems, Sam Cagle directly impacts the efficiency of student services and faculty productivity. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with academic departments to implement advanced learning management tools, driving digital transformation throughout the institution. Through strategic investment in hardware and software, Cagle secures the technological foundation necessary for long-term institutional growth and operational resilience within the competitive higher education landscape of the United States.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Nicholls State University Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Nicholls State University?
    Nicholls State University is led by David Soileau (Owner President), along with executives such as Jay Clune (President) and Brooke Huddleston (President of Alumni Federation).
    Who is part of Nicholls State University’s executive team?
    The executive team of Nicholls State University includes leaders such as David Soileau (Owner President), Jay Clune (President), Brooke Huddleston (President of Alumni Federation) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Nicholls State University have?
    Nicholls State University has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Nicholls State University’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Nicholls State University includes roles such as Owner President, President, President of Alumni Federation, Chief Information Officer.