Northwestern State University of Louisiana is focused on prioritizing innovation and progress. Students and faculty can expect an upgraded student and academic experience for the 2025-2026 academic year.
These changes include advancements in student life, infrastructure improvements and new programs aimed at fostering student engagement and academic success.
Madysen Morgan, a junior business administration major, will be the president of the Student Government Association this fall and is eager to see the campus evolve.
“I think that NSU is the hidden gem of Louisiana, and I hope that all of the changes on campus will showcase that,” Morgan said.
The most notable change next academic year is the opening of the 73,000 square foot infrastructure of Robert Alost Hall.
Dale Wohletz, physical plant director, oversees all of campus construction and ensures that the long-awaited Alost Hall will be in operation for the fall semester.
“The winter weather caused a delay for the exterior construction for the Alost Hall building, but we’re making progress now. The building is set to be finished this summer,” Wohletz said.
Greg Handel, executive vice president and provost of academic affairs, discussed plans to develop a better environment at NSU.
“Alost Hall includes high-tech, state of the art nursing simulation labs, multipurpose gathering areas and clinical field experience areas for psychology and social work. It will also have a grab-and-go snack bar,” Handel said. “The building is very versatile.”
In addition to existing projects, a variety of new construction is in the plan to expand the campus infrastructure. NSU’s plan of continuous development addresses current needs and anticipates future needs, ensuring that the campus retains its vibrant environment.
Innovation Park is a forthcoming project involving the Natchitoches community, NSU and the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts.
According to NSU’s website, Innovation Park will be located in front of University Parkway and adjacent to NSU and LSMSA. The park will take up over 12 acres of land and will provide a 10,450 square feet The New Family Makerspace, an 11,350 square feet Business Development Center and an 8,000 square feet Conference Center.
“Innovation Park is a shared project with LSMSA and Northwestern to have a space to collaborate. It is intended to be an innovative and incubation center for small business and entrepreneurs to get ideas and advice. This is a driver for economic development for Northwestern, LSMSA and the City of Natchitoches,” Handel said.
Other construction is underway to enhance and expand the campus.
“Iberville is also set to get a facelift this summer. When students return to campus full time this fall, there will be a freshly updated dining hall,” Handel said.
Wohletz explained that the David and Sherry Morgan Athletic Facility is underway and is predicted to be in operation by December 2025. This building will become a weight training faculty for Demon athletes.
Jason Pugh, NSU Athletic Director wrote, Groundbreaking of David and Sherry Morgan Health Performance Center a ‘milestone’ for NSU Athletics, which stated, “The annex that will be located in the Donald G. Kelly Athletic Complex will include a new 11,600 square foot weight room with space for more than 100 student-athletes, a 25-foot artificial turf pad, a new nutrition center, a student-athlete lounge and offices for the strength and conditioning staff.”
In addition to all of the new construction, NSU is also introducing new classes and programs to foster a better academic environment.
Rebecca Majeski, associate professor of English, discussed a new class that will be offered next semester.
The English, Languages, and Cultural Studies department is excited to introduce a new literary magazine class, designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the entire process of creating a literary magazine.
“I am hoping that campus will have a different culture with Alost Hall being in use. I am excited about being in a new space. It will feel like a refresh, introducing more positive energy,” stated Majeski.
With these important changes and projects happening, NSU aims to offer a new environment for its students, faculty and the Natchitoches community.
