Centenary College of Louisiana: A Legacy of Liberal Arts Education

Centenary College of Louisiana, a private liberal arts college in Shreveport, Louisiana, stands as a testament to the enduring power of education. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Centenary holds the distinction of being the oldest college in Louisiana and the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River. Its history is rich and varied, marked by periods of growth, resilience, and adaptation.

Historical Overview

Centenary College traces its roots to two earlier institutions. In 1846, the college's trustees honored its heritage by changing the institution's name to Centenary College of Louisiana, embracing the alumni of its predecessor colleges.

Antebellum Prosperity and the Civil War

During the 1850s, Centenary experienced a period of significant growth, with enrollment reaching 260 students. This era saw the construction of a large central building, a hub of academic and social life. The building housed classrooms, laboratories, literary society rooms, a library, a chapel, offices, and an auditorium capable of seating over 2,000 people.

However, the prosperity was abruptly interrupted by the American Civil War. A poignant entry in the faculty minute book from October 7, 1861, reads, "Students have all gone to war. College suspended; and God help the right!". The campus buildings were occupied by both Confederate and Union troops during the conflict.

Post-War Struggles and Continued Growth

Centenary reopened in the fall of 1865, facing significant financial challenges throughout the late 19th century. Despite these difficulties, the college persevered, laying the foundation for future growth.

Academics

Centenary College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award bachelor's and master's degrees. The college offers 25 undergraduate arts and sciences programs and 2 graduate programs.

TREK Program

All students are required to enroll in courses through Centenary’s TREK program featuring courses focused on cultivating a liberal arts mindset and experiential learning.

Rankings and Recognition

Centenary College consistently receives recognition for its academic excellence.

Campus Life

Centenary College's campus spans sixty-five acres and is located two miles south of downtown Shreveport.

Key Buildings and Facilities

The Anderson Choral Building: Named in memory of G. M. "Jake" and Dr. Gertie Anderson, this building houses the Nancy Mikell Carruth Choir Room, the Dr. Alberta E. Broyles Choral Room, and the Harvey and Alberta Broyles Choral Lounge.
The Brown Memorial Chapel: Erected in 1955, this chapel was a gift from Paul M. Brown, Jr., and his brother, Colonel S. Perry Brown, in honor of their parents.
The Gold Dome: Completed in 1971, this geodesic dome serves as a physical education facility and the home basketball and volleyball court and gymnastics arena with a capacity of 3,000.
Hamilton Hall: The administration building, completed in 1971, was largely the result of gifts by the late Mr. and Mrs. David Philip Hamilton.
The Hargrove Memorial Amphitheatre: This amphitheater was a gift of Mrs. R. H. Hargrove and her children, built in memory of her husband, Mr. Reginald H. Hargrove.
The Meadows Museum of Art: Established in 1975, this museum was created from the gift of Centenary alumnus Algur H. Meadows, featuring works by the French artist Jean Despujols.
The John F. Magale Memorial Library: Built in 1963 with a donation from the Magale Foundation, this library provides students with access to academic and student resources, including free printing, study areas, and tutoring. The library also houses the Centenary Archives and the Learning Commons.
Ed Leuck Louisiana Academic Arboretum: The three-acre Ed Lueck Louisiana Arboretum featuring native and exotic plant species.

Student Life and Activities

Centenary College offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of student organizations and activities.

Athletics

Centenary is currently a member of the NCAA Division III's Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC). Centenary College of Louisiana had previously fielded a football team from 1909 to 1947. On November 10, 2021, the college announced that it would be reviving its football team. The team began play during the 2024 college football season.

Affordability and Cost

Centenary College strives to make education accessible through various financial aid options.

Tuition: The tuition, both in-state and out-of-state, is $41,200.
Additional Costs: Room and board is approximately $14,800, and books and supplies cost around $1300.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

In the realm of financial aid, a substantial $16,504,535 is allocated to total needs-based scholarships and grants, complemented by $3,572,805 in non-need-based scholarships and grants.

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