Dr. Raquel Ayles named Associate Vice Chancellor of the SU Ag Center
Baton Rouge, La. – Dr. Raquel Square Ayles has been named the Associate Vice Chancellor for Extension and Outreach at the Southern University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. The announcement was made during the Southern University Board of Supervisors meeting on May 8, 2025.
Ayles, who currently serves as the SU Ag Center’s Youth Development Program Leader and STEAM Specialist, will officially fill the position on June 1, 2025.
As the Associate Vice Chancellor of Extension and Outreach, Dr. Ayles will develop and oversee high-impact educational and outreach programs; manage and oversee the Extension program evaluation and accountability process; facilitate trainings and professional development related to evaluation, impact, and reporting; identify the most efficient and effective means to deliver timely research-based information; support and lead efforts in budget planning, grant management, personnel management and fundraising; represent the Ag Center on University councils and committees, and continue her duties of a program leader.
Prior to her employment at the Southern University Ag Center, Ayles served as the Chief Academic Officer of the Algiers Charter School Association, Regional Director and Superintendent of Charter Schools USA in Louisiana, and Principal at both Bains Lower Elementary School and Scotlandville Elementary School.
She is also a member of the Board of Directors at New Schools for Baton Rouge (NSBR).
Dr. Ayles earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy, all from Southern University. She also received the Educational Specialist in Louisiana School Turnaround certification from Xavier University.