Howard Boyd, a seasoned attorney and longstanding member of Tulane University’s Office of the General Counsel, has been appointed as the university’s new general counsel, effective July 1. He succeeds Victoria “Tori” Johnson, who is stepping down after more than three decades of service. Johnson has been named general counsel emeritus and will continue supporting Tulane on select projects and transition matters.
Boyd’s promotion reflects a broader trend in higher education, where institutions are increasingly appointing internal candidates to top legal positions. This approach aims to ensure continuity and leverage institutional knowledge. However, the legal sector has seen notable turnover in general counsel roles. A recent analysis of Fortune 500 companies revealed that 31% of general counsel departures in 2025 occurred within three years of appointment, with over 70% of these short-tenure exits involving external hires. Cultural mismatches and more attractive opportunities elsewhere were cited as primary reasons for these early departures.
In the context of higher education, the role of general counsel has evolved significantly, encompassing not only legal compliance but also strategic advising on complex issues such as Title IX regulations, intellectual property, and governance. The appointment of Boyd, who has been deeply involved in Tulane’s legal affairs, suggests a strategic move to maintain stability and capitalize on his extensive experience within the institution.
As universities navigate an increasingly complex legal landscape, the emphasis on internal succession planning for general counsel positions may become more prevalent. This strategy not only fosters leadership development within the institution but also mitigates the risks associated with external hires, such as cultural misalignment and short tenures.