Although Interim LSU System President and Interim Chancellor Bill Jenkins has held nearly every major administrative position at the University, he never intended to get involved in the University’s administration.
Jenkins said when he began his career as a veterinary doctor, he briefly considered becoming a dean, but never considered becoming two-time LSU System President and three-time Chancellor.
“I trained as a veterinarian in South Africa,” he said. “I always intended to go back to my college to teach veterinary medicine and perhaps get an advanced degree. I thought that, one day, perhaps I could become a dean of veterinary medicine.”
As it turns out, Jenkins became the University’s dean of veterinary medicine in 1988. The University named him the provost and vice chancellor for academic affairs in September 1993. Three years later, in 1996, the LSU Board of Supervisors announced Jenkins as the fifth chancellor. He became the LSU System president in 1999.
In his current position, Jenkins will earn a base salary of $425,000 and an additional $175,000 from the LSU foundation, according to The Advocate. He will also receive up to $760 a month for a vehicle allowance, $2,670 in housing allowances, $600 a month for travel and $300 a month in miscellaneous expenses.
While in office, Jenkins’ retirement benefits will be suspended.
Jenkins promised to “not be a placeholder” and to immediately get to work resurrecting the University from a budgetary crisis.
“I don’t want to see us slide back at all,” Jenkins stressed. “Because my wife isn’t here with me, I am able to work later into the night. One thing we have to do is get to a situation where we can build up some reserves. I would love to find a way to reward our faculty; their dedication and hard-work has to be rewarded.”
He also addressed being tasked with the responsibility of two major administrative positions.
“In order to manage your time, you have to get help from your vice chancellors and deans; they become your administrative arms,” Jenkins said. “It’s difficult for me because I’m a hands-on, engaged person, but when you are holding both of those positions, it is not easy to do.”
He said becoming a real presence on campus is one of his top priorities. Jenkins said he enjoys going to Student Government meetings, eating in the Student Union and walking through the Quad on nice days to introduce himself to students.
Although he is excited about beginning his tenure as interim system president and chancellor, Jenkins confirmed he is not seeking a long-term position.
“I will never abandon LSU as long as I’m needed” he said. “I’m looking to get on with my life. But I would never walk away from LSU, especially right now.”
 
____ Contact Joshua Bergeron at [email protected]