USM, DSU presidents get contract extensions

JACKSON — The state College Board has voted to extend the contracts of Delta State University President John M. Hilpert and University of Southern Mississippi President Martha Saunders.

The new contracts are for four years.

College Board president Bettye Neely praised their leadership.

A news release from the College Board says Delta State has met enrollment and fund raising goals since Hilpert became president in 2003.

The board says Saunders has implemented a strategic plan that has improved her university. She is the ninth president of USM. She took the job in 2007.