McNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY
President Mike Reese serves as the ninth president of McNeese State University. A business executive, public servant and regional leader, he brings more than three decades of leadership experience spanning government, economic development, finance, logistics, commercial real estate and higher education policy. He officially assumed the presidency following his selection by the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors in May 2026.
Prior to becoming president, Reese served in the Louisiana State Senate, where he was recognized for his work on fiscal policy, economic competitiveness, workforce development and regional growth initiatives. Throughout his public service career, he advocated for strengthening the connection between education, industry and workforce needs to support Louisiana’s long-term economic success.
In addition to his public service, Reese is the managing partner and chief executive officer of the Reese Companies, a diversified group of businesses operating in transportation, logistics, aviation and commercial real estate. His business leadership experience has focused on strategic growth, organizational management and economic development across Louisiana and the Gulf South.
Reese also brings valuable higher education governance experience to McNeese. He previously served on the Louisiana Board of Regents as a student member while attending the University of Louisiana Monroe and later served on the Louisiana Student Financial Assistance Commission. These roles provided him with firsthand experience in higher education policy, funding and governance.
A graduate of the University of Louisiana Monroe, Reese earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance and Commercial Banking with a minor in Economics. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to advancing educational opportunity, developing Louisiana’s workforce and strengthening the communities and industries that drive the state’s economy.
As president of McNeese State University, Reese is focused on advancing student success, strengthening academic programs, expanding partnerships with business and industry, and reinforcing McNeese’s role as a catalyst for workforce development, innovation and economic growth throughout Southwest Louisiana.
I am a McNeese graduate with a bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Science and a concentration in Child and Family Studies. As a student, I competed on the rodeo team and served on the SGA board. I earned my master’s degree in 2022 from the University of South Dakota in Educational Administration and Leadership with a concentration in Adult and Higher Ed. I have over 13 years of experience in adult education and 20 years of educational experience.
My favorite part of being a Freshman Advisor is helping students navigate their new life routine as a college freshman by offering support with in-person office visits or by email to help students meet their goals. I always remind students of my favorite BB King quote – “Education is one thing no one can ever take away from you.” I believe that supporting students is vital to a student's success.
In my spare time, I raise registered American Brahman cattle, and I enjoy all the "country girl" things like hunting, fishing, growing a garden and cooking.