On 5 May 2025, Arnaud Laimé was elected President of Université Paris 8 Vincennes–Saint-Denis by the university’s newly formed Board of Directors, receiving 21 votes out of 33. He succeeds Annick Allaigre, who held the presidency from 2016 to 2025.
A senior lecturer in French and Latin literature, Arnaud Laimé began his academic journey at Paris 8 in 2004. After working in secondary education, he was appointed as a part-time lecturer, became a PRAG in 2007, and was promoted to maître de conférences in 2012. Deeply involved in academic and administrative life, he co-led the undergraduate programme in French and Francophone literature (2011–2013) and directed the UFR Textes et Sociétés from 2013 to 2016.
Elected Vice-President of the Board of Directors in 2016 and re-elected in 2021, he also oversaw campus planning and infrastructure from 2022 until his election as President. He initiated and coordinated the university diploma “Conduite de l’engagement associatif: administration et développement des associations,” dedicated to developing civic engagement.
During his presidency, he will be supported by Professor Pierre-Olivier Chaumet, former Director of the Law Department (2017–2022), who was elected Vice-President of the Board on the same day with 21 votes out of 34.
We are publishing a short Interview with him below:
What would you like to say to the Paris 8 community as you begin your presidency?
I’m grateful for the trust placed in me. My priority is to listen to everyone and work together to make our university stronger and more welcoming.
What are Paris 8’s greatest strengths?
Our inclusive mission and ability to innovate. Since its founding, Paris 8 has welcomed students from diverse backgrounds and developed creative solutions, programmes, and partnerships—both locally and internationally.
How do you plan to lead in the current challenging context?
Despite financial pressures and increased competition, Paris 8 remains committed to inclusion and academic excellence. We’ll continue to defend these values, build on our strong partnerships, and implement a roadmap based on 60 priority actions to improve study and work conditions.
Do you have a message for partners and the broader public?
Absolutely. Our public mission is vital. As President, I’ll ensure the university plays its full role in fostering knowledge, supporting student success, and contributing to more just and sustainable societies.
