Southern University and A&M College to break ground on new student housing development

Southern University and A&M College will mark a historic milestone in its continued growth and commitment to student success with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new student housing development on Thursday.

The ceremony, which will take place at 3 p.m. at the project site adjacent to the Horace W. Moody Intramural Sports Complex on Helen Barron Drive, will celebrate the launch of a transformative initiative designed to expand the university's residential capacity and enhance the on-campus student experience.

"This is a landmark moment for Southern University and A&M College," said John K. Pierre, chancellor of Southern University and A&M College. "The demand for student housing continues to increase as more students choose Southern as their academic home. This project reflects our commitment to creating a vibrant residential campus experience while providing safe, modern, and student-centered living environments that support academic achievement, student engagement, and retention. We are excited to take this important step toward meeting the needs of our current and future students."

The housing development represents the first phase of a larger residential expansion project that will ultimately provide 850 new student beds on the Baton Rouge campus. Phase I will include 500 beds and is expected to be completed within 13 months of construction commencement.

The project is being undertaken through a partnership between Southern University and A&M College, the Southern University System Foundation, and the Louisiana Public Facilities Authority. The University is scheduled to close on the financing for the project on Thursday, with construction beginning shortly thereafter.

The development follows extensive planning and analysis, including market research and housing assessments, which identified a significant need for additional on-campus housing. Upon completion of all phases, the project will expand the University's residential inventory, support enrollment growth, and enhance the overall student experience.

"The Southern University System Foundation is proud to partner with the university in helping make this transformative project a reality," said Allison Young, chair of the Southern University System Foundation Board of Trustees. "Student housing is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of Southern University. This project will strengthen the student experience, support enrollment growth, and enhance the university's ability to attract and retain talented students from across Louisiana and beyond. We are honored to assist in the financing efforts that will help shape the next chapter of Southern University's growth and success."

The groundbreaking ceremony will feature remarks from university leaders, members of the Southern University Board of Supervisors, representatives of the Southern University System Foundation, project partners, elected officials, alumni, and community supporters.

The student housing project is part of Southern University's broader commitment to investing in campus infrastructure and creating spaces that foster student success both inside and outside the classroom.