The University of Louisiana System unanimously voted for Justice James Genovese as the finalist for the presidency at Northwestern State University of Louisiana.

Both semifinalists Jose Cantu and Genovese met with community members, alumni, staff, faculty and students during today’s on-campus interviews.

NSU’s presidential search committee met after the interviews and an hour-and-a-half long executive session took place.

When the board came out of the executive session, UL System President Rick Gallot said no motions nor votes were taken. “We held a very thorough and thoughtful discussion about the candidates while in executive session,” Gallot said during the committee meeting in NSU’s Magale Recital Hall.

Then, Gallot opened the opportunity to the committee for any motions.

Frank Serio, a voting member of the committee and NSU’s faculty representative, motioned to advance Genovese as the finalist. This motion was seconded by UL System Board member Joe Salter. A roll call of votes was held and all voting committee members voted “yes” to recommend Genovese as the finalist.

Genovese will now be interviewed by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors for the job on July 18.

As reported by Nola.com, Genovese had Gov. Jeff Landry’s support for the presidency.

If approved by the board on Thursday, Genovese would become NSU’s 21st president and resign as Associate Justice for Louisiana’s Supreme Court opening an election for his position in Spring of 2025.