The University of South Alabama has a new vice president for government relations, the school announced Monday.

Nick Loukis, who has served as executive director since 2019, has been selected by university leadership to take over the role. Mr. Lowkis has a personal connection to the university, where he holds two degrees.

As part of his new role, Mr. Loukis will continue to serve as the university's liaison with local, state and federal governments and agencies, including coordinating the university's share of Alabama's $8 billion education budget. It turns out.

“Nick Loakis is one of Alabama's most respected government relations professionals,” said U.S. President Joe Bonner. “He has raised South's profile in both Montgomery and Washington, D.C., and his hard work and dedication to the university have earned him this promotion.”

RELATED: Charlie Taylor named UA System's vice chancellor for external affairs

In his current role, Mr. Lowkis has helped secure nearly $400 million in funding for the university and the U.S. Department of Health.

“Our success is truly a collaboration of many people, especially our relationships with elected officials,” Loukis said. “We are humbled by this recognition and extremely grateful to President Bonner and Executive Vice President and President Dr. Andy Kent for this opportunity, and we look forward to furthering the vision and mission of our Gulf Coast flagship. I look forward to continuing.”

Prior to joining the Office of Government Relations, Loukis worked in the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of Development and Alumni Relations.

He has been named to Mobile Bay Magazine's 40 Under 40 and serves on several internal and external committees and boards of directors.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer at Yellowhammer News.