Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards appoints AT&T Louisiana President Sonia Perez to the Louisiana Board of Regents. Perez will fill an at-large seat for the remainder of the unexpired term, which will end December 31, 2018.

“Sonia Perez is a strong supporter of higher education and is actively engaged in working with organizations and initiatives designed to help our young people learn the skills necessary to become successful in our growing and competitive job market,” said Gov. Edwards. “She understands the needs of employers and what it takes to develop a well- trained workforce. There is no doubt that her vast experience and knowledge will be beneficial to both the state and our students.”     

Perez has served as the president of AT&T since 2010 and leads a workforce of more than 4,200 employees and 6,300 retirees. In addition to overseeing AT&T’s operations, which includes its technology deployment and infrastructure investments in the state, she directs teams responsible for implementing public policy, legislative, regulatory and philanthropic initiatives. Perez is the first woman to serve as President-AT&T Louisiana.

“I am honored to be offered this opportunity, and I am pleased that the governor has confidence in my ability to represent all Louisianans on the Board of Regents”, said Perez. “I recognize that higher education is the economic engine of every state and look forward to doing my part to create a stronger and more vibrant Louisiana.”

“We are excited about the appointment of Sonia Perez to the Louisiana Board of Regents,” said Dr. Joseph C. Rallo, commissioner of higher education. “Having served as a university trustee and outstanding businesswoman, Ms. Perez brings an ideal combination of experience in higher education and the workforce. The board will benefit from her strategic vision and commitment to community. We are very fortunate to have her join our passionate, dedicated board members who work to elevate Louisiana higher education.”

The Louisiana Board of Regents is a 15-member volunteer board appointed by the governor. The board is responsible for planning, coordinating and budgeting for all public higher education in the state of Louisiana. Each term is six-years and each of Louisiana’s seven congressional districts must be represented by at least one and no more than two board members.