SHREVEPORT, La. — Centenary College of Louisiana has surpassed its fundraising goals with the completion of FORWARD: The Campaign for Our Third Century, raising more than $52 million over five years to strengthen academics, athletics and facilities across campus.
The comprehensive campaign, which began with a $40 million goal, was later expanded to $50 million to accommodate the full renovation of Mickle Hall, the college’s science building. The final total exceeded that goal by $2 million, marking Centenary’s first successfully completed fundraising campaign since 2001.
“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.”
Campaign priorities included $10 million each for annual operations, endowment growth, the Mickle Hall renovation and a Transformation Fund supporting academic and cocurricular programs.
The campaign has already resulted in major campus improvements, including the return of Centenary football after a 75-year absence. Athletic upgrades include a new practice field, field house, permanent stands and press box at Atkins Field, and a state-of-the-art Athletic Media Room.
Academic initiatives funded through the campaign include the creation of the Learning Commons, new majors in kinesiology and sport management, and a marketing minor. The Hurley School of Music also received upgrades, including new soundproof Wenger practice rooms with HD recording connectivity and a technology lab with digital audio workstations.
The college also added more than $12 million to its endowment, including 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.”
Centenary will continue fundraising for the $30 million renovation of Mickle Hall, a 77-year-old facility slated for complete modernization.
The FORWARD campaign underscores Centenary’s goal of entering its third century with renewed strength, innovation and commitment to student success.