Scott S. Cowen is the 14th President of Tulane University, one of the most highly regarded and selective independent research universities in the United States.

Since Dr. Cowen’s arrival in 1998, Tulane University has more than quintupled its undergraduate applications while experiencing all-time highs in student quality. In addition, Tulane has more than doubled the level of total private giving to the university and received a record level of research awards. The university has also implemented a number of innovative academic and research program initiatives and made community outreach the centerpiece of a Tulane education.

In recognition of Tulane’s accomplishments under Dr. Cowen, it has twice been noted as one of the “Hottest Schools in America” by Newsweek magazine and recognized on multiple occasions for its civic engagement programs.

In 2009 TIME Magazine named Dr. Cowen one of the nation’s top 10 Best College Presidents and he was one of only four university leaders nationwide to receive the 2009 Carnegie Corporation Academic Leadership Award. In 2010 President Cowen was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, one of the world’s most prestigious honorary societies. He is also the recipient of several national awards and honorary degrees from institutions such as Brown University, Yeshiva University, the University of Connecticut and the University of Notre Dame.  

In addition to his role as university President, Dr. Cowen is one of the leading forces in the transformation of kindergarten through 12th grade public education in New Orleans. Widely regarded as one of the worst school systems in the U.S. before its devastation by Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans’ public schools have made remarkable strides in student achievement, teacher quality and physical reconstruction with Dr. Cowen and the Cowen Institute for Public Education Initiatives playing a vital role.