SHREVEPORT, La. — Centenary College of Louisiana has launched the first phase of a multi-million-dollar renovation of the historic Mickle Hall Science Building, marking a significant investment in campus infrastructure and health sciences education.
College officials, joined by representatives from Hand Construction and Somdal Architects, broke ground on the project June 22. Participants included Centenary President Dr. Christopher Holoman, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost Dr. Karen Soul, School of Health Sciences Dean Dr. Scott Chirhart, Facilities Director Chris Sampite and Vice President of Development Fred Landry.
The first phase of the project will add an Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant entrance and accessibility ramp while also demolishing the building’s first and fourth floors in preparation for larger structural improvements.
Built in 1947, Mickle Hall is one of the college’s landmark academic buildings and currently houses Centenary’s health sciences programs. The project received a major boost in February when Congress announced a $10 million federal appropriation to support the renovation.
“This groundbreaking marks an important step forward in honoring Mickle Hall’s legacy while transforming it into a state-of-the-art learning environment for future generations of Centenary students,” Holoman said. “With this investment, we are strengthening both our academic programs and our commitment to accessibility, innovation, and community impact.”
College officials said the renovation aligns with Centenary’s efforts to modernize academic facilities while preserving the character of its historic campus.
Chirhart said the project will strengthen educational opportunities for students entering healthcare-related fields.
“Today’s groundbreaking represents more than a renovation; it’s an investment in the training of our students and in the future of healthcare in Louisiana,” Chirhart said. “This space will empower our students to learn, innovate, and lead in a rapidly evolving scientific world.”
The college plans to mark completion of the first phase with a ribbon-cutting ceremony following the annual President’s Convocation on Aug. 25.
The Mickle Hall renovation is the second major construction project completed or underway at Centenary in the past two years. In 2025, the college completed Bicentennial Village, a townhome-style student housing development.
College officials said the combined investments are designed to enhance the student experience while generating jobs and millions of dollars in construction activity for the local economy.
Kyle Hand, vice president of construction services at Hand Construction, said the company is proud to partner with Centenary and Somdal Architects on the project.
“Centenary just celebrated its bicentennial, continuing 200 years of education and service,” Hand said. “This is a milestone that bridges a remarkable legacy with an ambitious vision for the future.”
The renovation is expected to further support Centenary’s long-term growth strategy by expanding and modernizing facilities that serve one of the college’s fastest-growing academic areas.