News Summary
The University of New Orleans is initiating a major rebranding effort following its integration into the Louisiana State University System. This strategic move aims to strengthen its identity and educational offerings, reflecting its historical significance since 1958. The campus facilities, including The Beach at UNO, will further support this transition, promoting innovation and job creation in the technology sector. Under this new chapter, UNO is poised for growth and enhanced community engagement, aligning with modern educational demands.
New Orleans – The University of New Orleans (UNO) is embarking on a significant rebranding initiative following the final legislative approval for its transition into the Louisiana State University (LSU) System. This new chapter marks an important evolution for the university, which has undergone numerous identity changes since its establishment.
According to Senate President Cameron Henry, the university is due for a “rebrand” that aligns with its integration into the LSU System. This change is not just a mere cosmetic update; it signals UNO’s commitment to enhancing its educational offerings and strengthening its identity in the higher education landscape. Historically, UNO was known as Louisiana State University in New Orleans (LSUNO) and was renamed to its current designation in 1974.
The roots of the university extend back to 1958, when the first convocation for LSUNO took place in a Naval Air Station hangar. The first graduation exercises were held in 1962 under a tent on campus, located near the Liberal Arts Building. This long history reflects the university’s deep connection to the community and its ongoing evolution to meet the needs of students and faculty alike.
Supporting the university’s transition are several facilities and initiatives. The LSUNO campus houses multiple essential buildings, including those devoted to Sciences, Library, Liberal Arts, Administration, Education and Business, and a Health and Physical Education Center. The University Center is centrally located on campus and serves as the primary dining facility, providing a cafeteria, snack bar, and banquet rooms for events.
Adjacent to the university is The Beach at UNO, a 30-acre research and technology park established in 1997 and rebranded in 2021. It is home to various technology-related tenants, including the National Finance Center of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Recently, video game testing company DAQA announced its plans to open a quality assurance center at The Beach, which is expected to create between 15-20 jobs. DAQA will also be eligible for a 25% payroll rebate under Louisiana’s digital interactive media tax incentive program.
The Beach at UNO continues to flourish with a current occupancy rate of 83% and 44 tenants employing approximately 1,000 people. Upcoming renovations are set to transform the Lindy Boggs Conference Center into “The Sandbox,” an innovative space designed to foster collaboration. This project is anticipated to be completed by late 2025 or early 2026 and aims to promote clean energy and other high-tech projects, supported by significant funding including $50 million for transitioning to hydrogen energy.
On the athletics front, Tim Duncan, the vice president of athletics and recreation at UNO, has announced his acceptance of a senior role at the University of Memphis. During his five-year tenure at UNO, Duncan implemented a five-year strategic plan focused on academic excellence and facility improvements, leading the university’s athletics to three regular season championships and notable NCAA tournament appearances. He also prioritized community involvement and the financial support of student-athletes during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
As UNO moves forward with its rebranding strategy, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential growth and opportunities that the integration into the LSU System will bring. The transition is expected to enhance educational quality and accessibility for current and prospective students while reinforcing UNO’s commitment to serving the New Orleans community.
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Additional Resources
- La Illuminator: University of New Orleans Transition
- Wikipedia: University of New Orleans
- NOLA: DAQA Video Game Testing Company
- Google Search: University of New Orleans rebranding
- MLB: Andre Dawson Urban Invitational
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Higher Education
- Crescent City Sports: Tim Duncan at Memphis
- Google News: University of New Orleans
