Southern University History and Legacy

Founding Background

• Southern University was established to provide equal educational opportunities for black citizens in Louisiana.
• Initiated during the 1879 Louisiana State Constitutional Convention with delegates like PBS Pinchback and others.
• Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchback, first black governor of Louisiana, and Francis T. Nichols pushed for its establishment.

Early Years

• Act 87 passed in 1880 for incorporation and governance.
• First campus in New Orleans on Calliope Street.
• Moved to Saunier and Magazine Streets in 1886 due to growth.

Expansion and Recognition

• 1890: Established Agricultural and Mechanical Department.
• 1891: Recognized as a land-grant college under the Second Morrill Act.

Relocation and Growth

• 1912: Legislative Act 118 authorized relocation to north of Baton Rouge.
• 1914: New campus opened with 47 students.
• Led by Dr. Joseph Samuel Clark and later by his son, Felton Grandison Clark.

Mid-20th Century Developments

• 1960: Involved in a civil rights event leading to a landmark Supreme Court decision.
• 1974: Establishment of the Southern University System Board of Supervisors.

Modern Era and Southern University System

• Only historically black land-grant university system in the U.S.
• Comprises five campuses: Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Shreveport, Law Center, Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

Leadership and Achievements

• Dr. Jesse N. Stone, Dr. Dolores Spikes (first African-American woman CEO of a public university), and Dr. Ronald Mason, Jr. notable presidents.
• The university is known for producing top minority students in science, mathematics, and engineering.

Current Status and Future Plans

• Southern University Baton Rouge enrolls approximately 8,200 students.
• Offers baccalaureate, master's, professional, and doctoral degrees.
• Noted for academic programs, research, and high-quality graduates.
• Plans for growth include maintaining accreditation and new campus structures.

Conclusion

• Southern University symbolizes educational excellence and continues to set higher standards.