College prepares for its third century

In 2025, Centenary College of Louisiana celebrates its 200th anniversary. On Nov. 4, Centenary President Christopher Holoman announced the school’s latest fundraising endeavor, the $50 million “Forward: The Campaign for Our Third Century.”

The designed purpose of the Third Century Campaign is to advance the sciences and provide resources for new academic and co-curricular programs, student scholarships and operating expenses. That effort will include a $20 million renovation of Mickle Hall, the home of the college’s science curriculum.

“I am so excited about the people that are supporting our vision,” said Holoman during the event. “There are many reasons to support Centenary – some of it is because of a wonderful experience, but also a simple recognition of how important Centenary is to our community. Everyone in our region has a Centenary connection – we are Shreveport-Bossier’s college. We are so excited to be part of this community, and we ask for your help to complete this amazing campaign to secure Centenary’s place in Shreveport and its place in its third century.” More than $37 million has already been raised.

Holoman was joined by Dr. Donald A. Webb, president emeritus of Centenary, and Centenary alumna Donna Curtis ’69, executive director of Shreveport Green, to reveal initiatives that have already been launched, as well as future projects like the state-of-the-art modernization of Mickle Hall as the home of Centenary’s new School of Health Sciences.

Other projects include:

• The creation of a kinesiology major, including athletic training, physical therapy and occupational therapy.

• The establishment of the Learning Commons, a hub in Magale Library that offers academic programs, services and resources for students and faculty.

• A sports management major in the Frost School of Business will provide students with leadership, business, operations and analytical training useful in the sports industry.

• The return of football at the NCAA DIII level after a hiatus of over 70 years at the college.

• A renovation of the practice rooms and the addition of an elevator to the Hurley School of Music.

More information about the campaign and the areas of scholarships, sciences and annual fund contributions can be found at https://www.cclacampaign.com.

Centenary College of Louisiana is a selective, residential, national liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1825, it is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River and is a member of the Associated Colleges of the South.

A video of the announcement event is available on Centenary’s Facebook page.