ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – James R. “Jimmy” Sawtelle III, a longtime leader in Louisiana higher education and workforce development, announced Friday he will retire in spring 2026, closing a career that has spanned more than 30 years.

Sawtelle, a Ville Platte native and Rapides Parish resident, has led Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) since 2014, after previously serving a brief term as chancellor from 2011 to 2012. His career across the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) also includes senior vice president for workforce solutions, vice president for career and technical education, and regional director for multiple colleges.

During his tenure, CLTCC has been recognized as a statewide model for rural innovation. Under his leadership, the college relocated its main campus to downtown Alexandria with the construction of a $22 million facility, expanded healthcare and manufacturing programs, launched new offerings in forestry, fiber optics, commercial truck driving and linework, and secured more than $10 million in outside funding to support student success. CLTCC also earned accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in 2023.

“It has been the honor of my professional life to serve as chancellor of Central Louisiana Technical Community College,” Sawtelle said in his retirement announcement. “Our students, faculty and staff have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to transforming lives and elevating our communities, and I will forever be proud of what we have accomplished together—with the continued support of our incredible Central Louisiana partners.”

Dr. Monty Sullivan, president of LCTCS, praised Sawtelle’s contributions to both the system and the region. “Jimmy’s career has been defined by a steadfast dedication to the students, faculty and communities he has served,” Sullivan said. “His commitment to our mission and steady guidance have inspired those around him and strengthened the fabric of our system. We are grateful for the legacy he leaves and wish him and his family much joy in this next chapter.”

CLTCC has seen double-digit enrollment growth in recent years, awarding credentials to more than 400 allied health professionals in the past 14 months. Looking ahead, the college will continue its expansion with new capital projects, including the Rod Brady Campus in Jena and the Ward H. Nash Avoyelles Campus in Cottonport, both authorized during the 2025 legislative session.

Sawtelle said he is confident the college’s future is strong. “I look forward to cheering it on in the years to come,” he said.

The LCTCS Board of Supervisors will begin a national search for his successor.