Kevin Carman had a rocky relationship with education as a young man. He barely graduated from high school—too many absences—and dropped out of college twice. The third time turned out to be the charm, and he’s been associated with higher education ever since. He’s the dean of LSU’s College of Science, a professor of biology and an adjunct professor in the oceanography and coastal science department. At least until he quits to become a John Prine–inspired country-folk singer. In the meantime, he’s one of the university’s top academic leaders at a time when the state budget picture is improving, but still highly uncertain. Read the full Q&A with Carman here. Here is a sample.
Why do you do what you do?
I get to work with some of the most brilliant and creative people in the world—people who are absolutely passionate about what they do. I have the privilege of facilitating and celebrating the success of extraordinary young scholars and faculty. And the place where I work is forever young. Budget cuts notwithstanding, I can’t imagine a more rewarding career.
