SHREVEPORT, La. — Centenary College of Louisiana President Christopher L. Holoman will retire June 30, 2027, ending more than a decade as the college’s 31st president.
The college’s Board of Trustees said it has begun succession planning and will conduct a national search for Holoman’s replacement. The search is expected to take place over the coming academic year to allow time for a leadership transition.
“Leadership transitions are among the most important responsibilities entrusted to a governing board, and we are approaching this process with care, transparency, and a long-term perspective,” said Ross P. Barrett, chair of the Board of Trustees. “At the same time, this is an opportunity to recognize the remarkable impact of Chris Holoman’s leadership on Centenary College.”
Holoman became president in 2016. During his tenure, Centenary completed the largest fundraising campaign in its history, expanded academic and student-life programs, strengthened community partnerships, launched new athletic initiatives and advanced campus development projects.
The college also said it has maintained a top 1% medical school admittance rate nationally during Holoman’s tenure.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve Centenary College,” Holoman said. “For more than two centuries, this institution has transformed lives. I am profoundly grateful to have worked alongside remarkable faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees, and friends who care deeply about its mission and its future.”
Holoman will remain in the role through June 30, 2027. The board said it plans to involve faculty, staff, students, alumni and other stakeholders in identifying the experience and qualifications sought in the next president.
Additional details about the search committee, process and timeline are expected to be announced in the coming months.
Centenary College, founded in 1825, is a residential liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church.