BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — On Thursday, officials from Southern University and local leaders gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of a $1.7 million outdoor classroom and amphitheater on the Baton Rouge campus.
Dennis J. Shields, president of the Southern University System, emphasized the importance of this project, stating, “This is only the start of some remarkable transformations that will take place on this campus. Most importantly, it will significantly impact the experience that students have here.”
University officials revealed that the funding for this project will come from the U.S. Department of Education’s Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund. This money had been set aside and is now being utilized for the new facility.
John Pierre, chancellor of Southern University, expressed enthusiasm about the unique design of the new facility. He noted that its shape resembles the bell that enslaved ancestors rang each morning to signal the start of the day when this area was a plantation. “This is now a place and a beacon of hope,” Pierre stated.
Pierre also highlighted that the benefits of the new facility will extend beyond the students. “The community can have outdoor activities, enjoy the peacefulness of the river, and appreciate the view of the Bluff. This will enhance the sense of community at Southern University,” he said.
Regarding the timeline for completion, Pierre mentioned that they hope to finish the project within a year.
Related topics:
- EVs and Batteries Boost Grid Resilience Amid Rising Demand
- Two Dead as Hurricane John Hits Mexico, Prompting Flash Flood Warnings
- Hurricane Helene Slams Southeast, Killing 57 and Leaving Millions Without Power