Ronald Mason Jr. took office in July 2015 as UDC’s ninth president, his third presidential appointment. In July 2022, President Mason announced he would step down when his contract concluded. As his tenure draws to a close, this special issue of UDC Forward pays tribute to the University’s longest-serving president.
Ronald Mason Jr., a native of New Orleans, previously served in leadership roles at the Southern University and A&M College System, Jackson State University and Tulane University. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1974 from Columbia College of Columbia University, followed by his Juris Doctor degree in 1977 from Columbia Law School. President Mason is also a graduate of the Harvard Institute of Educational Management.
Prior to UDC, President Mason served a five-year term as the chief executive officer of the Southern University and A&M College System and spent ten years as president of Jackson State University.
At Tulane, President Mason developed a successful record of progressive leadership, including senior vice president, general counsel, and vice president for finance and operations. He also served as founder and executive director of the National Center for the Urban Community at Tulane and Xavier Universities.
President Mason is also a proud family man, married to Belinda Mason and father of three children: Nia, Jared and Kenan. He is also excited to have his first grandchild on the way.
President Mason is a man of many talents. He enjoys poetry and rap music. He is also working on a screenplay.
UDC is proud to honor the legacy of this servant leader and wishes him continued success as he takes on a new role as a member of the law school faculty. President Mason’s legacy at the University will live on.