Leon R. Tarver II facts for kids

Leon R. Tarver II (born around 1948) is an American leader in education. He was the president of Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Southern University is a public university with a special history. It was created for African American students. Mr. Tarver led the university from 1997 to 2005.

Early Life and Learning

Leon R. Tarver II was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, around 1948. He went to schools in his hometown. He studied political science at Southern University in Baton Rouge. There, he earned his first college degree.

Later, he went to Harvard University. He earned a master's degree from the John K. Kennedy School of Government. He also earned a doctor's degree from The Union Institute in Cincinnati, Ohio.

His Career in Education

Mr. Tarver started working at Southern University in 1992. He became a professor there. He taught about how public organizations are managed.

He also helped lead the university's Center of Cultural Heritage and International Programs. This center focused on culture and global studies. From 1997 to 2005, he served as the president of Southern University.

Other Important Roles

Beyond his work at the university, Mr. Tarver has worked around the world. He helped with development projects in countries like Haiti, England, and France. He also worked in many African countries. These include Ghana, Mozambique, Nigeria, and South Africa.

In 2013, the governor of Louisiana, Bobby Jindal, chose Mr. Tarver for a special role. He was appointed to the Board of Trustees for Southern University. This board helps guide the university. Since 2015, he has been the chairman of this board.

Mr. Tarver also served as the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Revenue and Taxation. This department is in charge of collecting taxes for the state.

Personal Life

Leon R. Tarver II is married to Cynthia Tarver.