Wade Rousse, the newly appointed president of Louisiana State University (LSU), has entered his role with a compensation structure that could exceed $2 million annually, contingent on performance-based benchmarks and revenue generation. His contract, approved by the LSU Board of Supervisors, includes a base salary of $750,000 and potential bonuses totaling over $1 million.
Rousse can earn up to $210,000 each year by meeting university-specific performance goals, such as enrollment growth or research output. An additional $415,000 per year is available through revenue-related incentives, including increased federal grants or private donations.
The agreement also links rewards to state economic outcomes. For instance, if LSU secures a partnership with Louisiana Economic Development worth more than $5 million, Rousse will receive a $25,000 bonus. Further incentives are tied to success in securing additional funding from the state legislature.
This model reflects a growing trend in public higher education to align executive compensation with measurable institutional and regional economic impact. By tying rewards to external funding and collaboration, the university aims to strengthen its role in statewide development efforts.
The structure underscores LSU’s strategic focus on expanding its influence beyond academia and contributing directly to Louisiana’s economic growth.
— news from Baton Rouge Business Report
— News Original —
LSU president’s contract adds incentives for economic development wins
LSU’s new president, Wade Rousse, is stepping into his new role with a compensation package that could top $2 million a year thanks to more than $1 million in performance and revenue-based incentives tied to university growth and state funding outcomes, The Center Square writes. n nPer his contract, Rousse will earn a $750,000 base salary and can earn up to $210,000 per year if certain university-related performance measures are met. He can receive another $415,000 per year in “revenue-related incentives,” such as increased federal appropriations or donations. n nThe LSU Board of Supervisors also OK’d several other incentives tied to state funding measures. If LSU secures a contract with Louisiana Economic Development valued at more than $5 million, Rousse will receive an extra $25,000, and he can receive additional bonuses if he brings in more funding from the state Legislature. n nRead the full story.