Xavier University of Louisiana has appointed Ronald M. Carrere Jr. as Associate Vice President of Government and Community Relations. In this newly created role, Mr. Carrere will coordinate government affairs, community outreach, strategic partnerships, and the Hope Revitalization Corporation, with delegated authority from the president. Xavier University is on the cusp of celebrating its first 100 years of service, and Carrere’s role is integral to its strategy of expanding its legacy of excellence and building on its foundation of community and social justice as it pursues its mission to promote a more just and humane society. 

Carrere is a proud native of New Orleans and holds degrees in business administration and finance, specializing in real estate finance, from the University of New Orleans. He has also completed his master’s degree in sustainable real estate development at Tulane University. He is a proud and distinguished alumnus of several esteemed programs, including the Harvard Kennedy School’s Art and Practice of Leadership Development, the Bryan Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum, the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute, the Loyola Institute of Politics, and the Norman C. Francis Leadership Institute. 

He presently serves as the Interim Executive Director of the Norman C. Francis Leadership Institute. His professional journey includes serving as the vice president of development at Liberty Bank & Trust, where he played a pivotal role in the Real Estate and Commercial Lending Divisions and actively contributed to various community initiatives. Before transitioning to the private sector, he dedicated seven years to public service with the City of New Orleans, working in both the Workforce Development and Economic Development departments. 

“I am excited to bring my experience in government and community relations to Xavier University as it continues to grow and expand its impact,” said Carrere. “This is a significant opportunity for me to contribute to Xavier’s mission of academic excellence and community service.” 

Carrere is incredibly engaged and active in the community, offering his time to serve on multiple boards in various leadership roles, including the City Year New Orleans Advisory Board, DePaul Community Health Services (Daughters of Charity), and Amistad Research Center. He also acts as vice chair of the HBCU Legacy Bowl Host Committee and senior vice chair of the Urban League of Louisiana Board. His legacy of service encompasses his previous roles as well, including acting as treasurer for Einstein Charter School, serving as a member of the board for Dress for Success, his involvement with VAYLA (Vietnamese American Young Leadership Association), and his participation in the New Orleans East Economic Development Board, among others. 

Ron Brade, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Xavier University of Louisiana, stated, “I am pleased to welcome Ronald Carrere to our leadership team. His expertise in government and community relations will be invaluable as we strengthen our connections with the community and pursue our strategic goals.”