NEW ORLEANS – University of Holy Cross President Dr. David “Buck” Landry, who over the past five years at the helm has transformed the 103-year old New Orleans educational institution from a small neighborhood college to a fully-accredited university, announced his retirement by 30 June or whenever the Board selects his successor. Details were shared in a press release.
During Landry’s tenure, Our Lady of Holy Cross College was renamed University of Holy Cross, launched its first doctorate programs, expanded many of its masters programs, and restructured the school’s governance while increasing overall student enrollment.
Landry, who turns 76 this year, is credited with the fundraising, planning, and construction of the University’s 60,000-square-foot Residence Hall, the school’s first dormitory which injected the campus with a new spirit of growth and vitality for the UHC community. He also spearheaded the construction of the new 7,000-square-foot Health Science Center, which will be home to the expanded undergraduate and graduate healthcare programs.
“My proudest moments at the University of Holy Cross are transforming the university from a locally based college to a nationally accredited and highly ranked university, launching new and innovative educational programs especially in the health science field, building new housing and learning facilities, and upgrading the school’s infrastructure,” said Landry.
Under Landry’s leadership, UHC’s enrollment grew by 10 percent and the university rose from 55th in the rankings to 22nd in the country for Best Regional Colleges South by U.S. News & World Report.
“Buck agreed to step up with his accomplished academic expertise when we needed him the most, taking the reins of a century-old New Orleans educational institution and transforming it from a small local college to a fully-accredited university,” said UHC Board of Trustees chair Dennise V. Tabony. “While other similar local and national universities suffered cutbacks, Buck led UHC to its pinnacle of excellence while increasing the enrollment. He has literally taken our university, which was once known to many as Louisiana’s best kept secret to what has now become a story to share and celebrate nationwide.”
Before assuming the reins as the 18th President of UHC in 2014, Landry was a member of the University’s Board of Trustees where he led the Philanthropy & Stewardship Committee. Landry’s successful academic career included several teaching and distinguished administrative posts at Nicholls State University and the University of South Mississippi.
Landry plans to stay on board until his successor is installed and assist with the transition of the new administration. The Board of Trustees will form a search committee at its April 17 meeting.
A fully accredited Catholic university in New Orleans, the University of Holy Cross offers more than 65 majors and programs to more than 1,300 students. With 154 faculty members and a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, students enjoy a personalized academic experience on an active campus where they are encouraged to explore spiritual values and pursue service opportunities. Some of the university’s most distinctive programs are in Business, Education, Counseling and Healthcare. The university was founded in 1916 as a mission of the Marianites of Holy Cross, whose distinguished history of educating minds and hearts dates to 1848.
