ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – Louisiana State University of Alexandria has appointed two new academic leaders to guide its growing colleges, a move officials say reflects the school’s record enrollment growth over the past five years.

Following a national search, Rafael Romero has been named dean of the College of Business, while Beth Whittington has been named dean of the College of Social Sciences. University leaders said the appointments ensure experienced oversight as LSUA continues its trajectory as the fastest-growing four-year institution in Louisiana.

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Romero, a Fulbright Scholar, has spent more than a decade teaching and leading at LSUA. With a background in law, international relations and business strategy, his career includes work as a commercial law attorney, professor of law and consultant for international trade and development initiatives. He also founded a local communications and branding firm.

Since joining LSUA 11 years ago, Romero has played a key role in shaping the College of Business, launching initiatives such as Bark Tank, the school’s entrepreneurial pitch competition. He was most recently recognized with the 2025 CTE Teaching Innovation Award for his work on student-led projects.

Whittington, who had been serving as interim dean of the College of Social Sciences, officially steps into the role after three decades with LSUA. She was the university’s first full-time criminal justice professor and helped transform a two-year program into one of LSUA’s largest academic departments. She became department chair in 2018.

Her professional background includes 15 years with the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, service in child protection and work as a forensic interviewer at the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center. At LSUA, she has expanded partnerships with law enforcement agencies, coordinated specialized training for hundreds of officers and built professional networks that connect students to career opportunities.

“These appointments reflect LSUA’s commitment to strong, experienced leadership at a time of tremendous growth,” Chancellor Paul Coreil said. “Deans Romero and Whittington are dedicated educators and visionary leaders who will help guide their colleges and students to even greater success in the years ahead.”

Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Elizabeth Beard added that both Romero and Whittington bring deep community engagement to their roles. “Their commitment to service and student success reflects the values fueling LSUA’s remarkable growth and continued impact across central Louisiana,” she said.

LSUA officials also thanked Jeff Langston, dean of the College of Health and Human Services, for serving as interim dean of the College of Business during the national search.

Romero and Whittington join LSUA’s other academic deans, including Nate Sammons, Ph.D., dean of the College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, and Brenda Ellington, Ph.D., dean of the College of Liberal Arts.

More information about LSUA’s academic programs is available at www.explore.lsua.edu