Centenary College’s FORWARD campaign raises more than $52 million, exceeding goal, and transforming campus
SHREVEPORT, LA — Centenary College of Louisiana proudly announces the successful completion of FORWARD: The Campaign for Our Third Century, the College’s comprehensive fundraising campaign and the first successfully completed campaign since 2001. Over the course of five years, the campaign raised more than $52 million, exceeding the updated campaign goal by $2 million and the original goal by $12 million.
Initially launched with a $40 million goal, the campaign was structured around four core priorities:
- $10 million for the annual fund and operations
- $10 million for endowment growth
- $10 million for the complete renovation of Mickle Hall, the College’s science building
- $10 million for the Transformation Fund, supporting seed money and funding for curricular and cocurricular programming
As planning for the sweeping renovation of Mickle Hall progressed, it became clear that the scope and cost of the project would exceed the original allocation. In response, the College increased the overall campaign goal by $10 million, bringing the total goal to $50 million.
“FORWARD has been about far more than fundraising—it has been about vision, momentum, and belief in Centenary’s future,” said Dr. Christopher Holoman, president of Centenary College. “The extraordinary generosity of our alumni, parents, friends, and partners has positioned the College to thrive into our third century while remaining true to our mission of academic excellence and student-centered education.”
The FORWARD campaign has already delivered significant, visible impact across campus. Among the most notable accomplishments is the reestablishment of Centenary football after a 75-year hiatus, accompanied by major athletic infrastructure upgrades. These include a new practice field, field house, permanent stands and press box at the upgraded Atkins Field, and a new, state-of-the-art Athletic Media Room.
Academic and student success initiatives were also central to the campaign’s success. Funds supported the creation of the Learning Commons, a new student and faculty resource center, as well as the launch of new academic programs, including majors in kinesiology and sport management and a minor in marketing.
The campaign further strengthened Centenary’s arts and sciences facilities. The Hurley School of Music saw a complete upgrade of its third-floor practice area, including the installation of eight new self-contained Wenger practice rooms equipped with ethernet connectivity for HD recording, along with a new technology lab featuring six digital audio workstations. Funding has also been secured to add an elevator to the storied building.
In addition, the College added more than $12 million in endowment support, enhancing long-term financial sustainability and academic distinction. This includes the establishment of the McPherson Biology Chair in the School of Health Sciences.
“This campaign reflects the collective power of thousands of donors who believe deeply in Centenary College,” said Fred Landry, Vice President for Development. “Every gift—large and small—has helped move the institution forward, enabling transformative investments in people, programs, and facilities that will benefit generations of students.”
Fundraising will continue in the coming months for the Mickle Hall renovation to meet the increased price tag of nearly $30,000,000 to complete the total renovation of the 77-year-old facility.
Centenary College extends its deepest gratitude to the thousands of donors whose generosity made FORWARD possible. Their support ensures that the College enters its third century with renewed strength, innovation, and opportunity.