2025: Centennial Edition
100 Things to Love about Southeastern
What makes Southeastern so special? Take a journey through 100 reasons with snapshots of the place we all know and love.
Sheri Gibson
For 100 years, Southeastern has been a place where education, connection, and opportunity come together to create something truly special. From its humble beginnings to its thriving present, the university has touched countless lives through its traditions, achievements, and the everyday moments that define the Southeastern experience. Each reason to love Southeastern stands on its own, but together they form something even greater—a legacy that grows with every generation.
To honor this milestone, we’ve gathered 100 things to love about Southeastern through both personal stories and a dive into our archives. It’s a list that reflects the best of what the university offers—its people, its culture, its influence on the community and beyond, and so much more.
Yet even this list can’t fully capture Southeastern’s essence. While we stopped at 100, the reasons are indeed countless, spanning time and the unique variety of personal experiences and impacts. There are also qualities you can’t put into words: the feeling of walking under the live oaks, the spark of belonging when you make friends for life, the pride of calling this place home, and the way it transforms lives. These moments and connections, both tangible and intangible, are what make Southeastern more than a university—they make it unforgettable. They make it incomparable. They make it a lasting part of each and every one of us.
No.
1
We’re Stronger Together
Our strength lies in community, where every person—student, alum, faculty, staff, and supporter—contributes something essential. Our university’s achievements and spirit come from the combined efforts of those who teach, learn, serve, and lead here. Together, we create a place that is more than the sum of its parts, a university that grows stronger through every shared success and every unique role played. Southeastern’s greatness is rooted in this unity, where each voice, each talent, and each hand shapes a legacy that none of us could build alone.
No.
2
Building Family Legacies
“Knowing that I have gone through something five generations of my family have gone through is an incredible feeling. Southeastern has the same effect on people who attend today as it did back almost 100 years ago.”
Leigh Henderson (’22 and ’24),
sales professional
No.
3
That Feeling of Coming Home
For future Lions, the first step onto campus often feels like coming home. The green spaces, towering oaks, and well- kept paths create an instant sense of welcome, sparking a feeling of belonging that’s hard to shake. Alumni who return know it well—that familiar warmth and ease, the link to this place that remains long after graduation. Whether it’s their first visit or their fiftieth, Southeastern has a way of making people feel like they’re right where they belong.
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4
Cultivation of Green Leaders
Nestled on the edge of campus, the Sustainability Center is where Southeastern’s vision for a greener future comes to life. It’s a place where solar panels gleam under the Louisiana sun and students learn how to make sustainability a lifestyle, not just a concept. From energy-efficient practices to eco-friendly landscaping, the peaceful center generates a buzz of activity as students engage with hands-on environmental projects. It’s not just a classroom—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem that inspires responsibility, creativity, and a deep love for the planet. Here, Southeastern students are leading the charge to protect the Earth, proving that sustainability is more than a goal—it’s a way of life.
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5
Living on Campus
“I really enjoyed the experience of living in the dorms. During my freshman year, I was assigned a roommate, and we clicked immediately. To this day, she remains one of my closest friends. We still make an effort to catch up over lunch or dinner, even though it’s been years since we graduated. Living on campus also allowed me to get involved in various activities.”
Yulet Silva (’19),
senior staff tax accountant
No.
6
It’s a Place to Grow Up and Glow Up
“As a young, somewhat sheltered girl, I was both anxious and excited to embark on this new chapter of my life. From the moment I stepped onto campus, I felt a sense of independence and freedom that was exhilarating.”
Lyn Wiederman (’64),
retired teacher
No.
7
Business Brilliance
The College of Business holds AACSB accreditation, a distinction shared by only 5% of business schools worldwide, ensuring a high standard of education and a world of opportunities after graduation.
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8
The Pop House
Before student unions were a thing, students gathered at the Pop House, a small, beloved shack under Friendship Oak, for nickel hamburgers and soda.
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9
Poet Laureates
We’ve played home to numerous Louisiana Poet Laureates, including contemporary faculty members Alison Pelegrin (’23–’25 term) and Jack Bedell (’17–’19 term).
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10
A Stage That Tells a Story
Nestled in the historic heart of Hammond, the Columbia Theatre for the Performing Arts is Southeastern’s crown jewel for culture and creativity. Originally opened in 1928 as a movie house, this grand theatre was acquired by Southeastern and lovingly restored and reopened in 2002 as a premier venue for live performances. Today, the Columbia continues that tradition, serving as both a stage for the arts and a bridge between the university and the local community. From the rush of opening night to the quiet moments before the curtain rises, there’s a magic to the Columbia that keeps audiences coming back for more.
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11
Robin Roberts Started Here
One of America’s most beloved and esteemed television broadcasters, Robin Roberts (’83), studied communication at Southeastern and was a stand-out player on the Lady Lions Basketball team during her college days. A proud Lion for life, the expansive and innovative Robin Roberts Broadcast Media Center is opening this year—giving countless future students the opportunity to follow in her footsteps.
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12
It’s Just Warmer Here
“As an out-of-state student, I was initially uncertain about attending Southeastern. However, my campus visit changed everything. While other schools treated me indifferently, Southeastern welcomed me with open arms. . . . It was more than just a university—it was a place that fostered my growth, nurtured my dreams, and became a lasting part of my life.”
Patrick Gipson (’94),
retired law enforcement officer
No.
13
Following Your Curiosity
“Being able to dig into whatever my intellectual curiosity was at any given point was what the [liberal arts degree] afforded me, and it let my life continue in that direction.”
Michelle Cavalier (’09),
co-owner of Cavalier House Books
No.
14
A Place Where Sound Comes to Life
A sanctuary for the arts, the art deco Pottle Hall has been the stage for countless performances and practices that have helped enrich the cultural fabric of Southeastern for nearly nine decades. From student recitals to orchestral concerts, Pottle has hosted a diversity of talent over the years. With its elegant design and stellar acoustics, it’s a cherished venue where students and faculty can showcase their talents.
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15
Wetlands and Wonder
Hidden within the wild, natural beauty of the Manchac Swamp lies Turtle Cove Environmental Research Station, Southeastern’s gateway to Louisiana’s rich and complex ecosystem. Accessible only by boat, a trip to Turtle Cove feels like a journey into a different world— where cypress trees rise from the water, Spanish moss sways in the breeze, and the chorus of wildlife echoes all around. But Turtle Cove isn’t just a scenic retreat; it’s a hands-on classroom where students and researchers dive into environmental science, studying everything from coastal erosion to water quality. It’s a place where theory meets reality and where the lessons learned help protect Louisiana’s fragile wetlands. Stepping onto the boardwalk at Turtle Cove evokes a reminder that Southeastern is not just located in Louisiana—it’s actively working to preserve and celebrate the unique environment that surrounds it.
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16
Field of Dreams
Home to Southeastern’s baseball legacy, Pat Kenelly Diamond at Alumni Field is where the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd come together in perfect harmony. Named in honor of legendary coach Pat Kenelly, it’s a place where Southeastern’s baseball tradition thrives and new stories are written every season.
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17
It Stays with You
“It was where I found my footing, forged lasting connections, and laid the groundwork for the person I am today. That transition from shy freshman to confident graduate has shaped every aspect of my life since then.”
Christopher Guntz (’11),
territory manager
No.
18
It’s an Accessible Path to Something More
“I was the first one in my family to get a college degree. My father told me when I was a young boy that I was going to go to college and that I was going to have to figure out how to pay for it. I did. Southeastern was my affordable gateway to getting an education.”
Angelo J. Distefano (’72),
founder / owner of Angelo’s Landscape Group
No.
19
Helping Others Weather the Storm
In the 2005 aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, our university jumped in to house displaced students, staff, faculty, National Guard members, and utility workers. Southeastern also reopened enrollment and provided housing for many displaced students from other universities and community colleges in the disaster area, enrolling a record-breaking 16,068 students that fall.
No.
20
Your Dreams are Nurtured
“I came to Southeastern and took my first theatre class, and I just caught the bug! . . . Southeastern and the instructors had a big impact on me. They made me believe that I could actually act outside of just a hobby.”
Jaren Mitchell (’11),
actor (The Purge TV series, Queen Sugar)
No.
21
Carrying the Torch Forward
“Southeastern stands for humility. Southeastern stands for being forward thinking. Southeastern stands for excellence. And I come from excellence.”
Ebony Morris (’11),
attorney
No.
22
You’re Pushed to Excel
“Professors like Dr. Barbara Forrest, though initially intimidating, challenged me in the most incredible way. She expected greatness, and I wanted nothing more than to make her proud.”
Tricia DeMarche (’05),
human resources business partner
No.
23
Guns and Gains
Whether students are hitting the treadmill, practicing yoga, or shooting hoops with friends, the Pennington Student Activity Center is the go-to place for all things fitness and recreation. This state-of-the-art facility offers more than just gym equipment—it provides a vibrant, supportive environment for members of the campus community to stay active and healthy.
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24
Green Energy
When Ascension Hall and Twelve Oaks Hall opened in 2018, they made history for their hybrid geothermal heating and cooling system—the first of its kind for any university or state building in Louisiana and the second largest site in the country to use such a setup. It draws from 220 geothermal wells situated 300 feet underground to heat and cool 556 rooms, reducing energy costs by more than 50% and serving as a learning laboratory for real-world experiences for students in various disciplines.
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25
“Whisper your goal in the lion’s ear, and success will follow within a year.”
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26
The Guarding Lion
Perched proudly in the heart of campus, the Lion statue is more than just a bronze figure—it’s the embodiment of Southeastern pride. Majestic and fierce, the lion keeps a watchful eye over students and visitors passing by, serving as a reminder of the courage and determination that defines the Southeastern spirit. It has quickly become not only one of campus’ most recognizable landmarks, but also the most popular spot for photos—making a graduation snapshot with the Lion a rite of passage.
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27
We’ve Got a Presence
#LionUp!
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28
The Pulse of Campus Life
The War Memorial Student Union is Southeastern’s central hub. Renovated and modernized over the years, it offers an inviting space where students can gather for meals, study in comfortable nooks, or catch up on the latest campus news. The building’s namesake honors Southeastern’s fallen heroes, giving it a profound sense of history and community. Whether attending events, grabbing a coffee at Starbucks, or participating in student organization meetings, the union is where connections are made and memories are forged.
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29
Sims’ Bond Gambit
When Southeastern needed new facilities in 1927, President Linus Sims rallied community support to secure bonds for land purchases, despite local opposition. Through the acquisition of the 15-acre Hunter Leake Estate, his efforts helped establish the core of today’s campus and gave the school its first own home, marking a turning point for Southeastern’s growth. Today the Hammond campus sits at 365 contiguous acres.
No.
30
The Biggest Week of the Year
Homecoming Week at Southeastern goes beyond events—it’s a heartfelt reunion that celebrates the spirit of community and belonging. It’s a time when alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends come together to reconnect with old memories and make new ones. For alumni, it’s a reminder of the friendships, challenges, and growth that shaped their time here. For students, it’s an invitation to join a tradition that unites generations. Homecoming brings us all back, grounding us in the shared journey that is Southeastern.
No.
31
Hustling in the Lab
“We used the heck out of the computer labs. In between classes I was always in the computer lab doing schoolwork, but also starting our business.”
John Cavalier (’09)
said about starting his business, Cavalier House Books, while a student at Southeastern
No.
32
Exploding into National Attention
The late ’80s through the ’90s saw a boom in enrollment, with the number of students snowballing from 7,000 in 1986 to 14,000 in 1995—the year it became known as the fastest growing university in America.
No.
33
Roomie’s Secret Identity
“I brought a bill before the Student Government Association to buy a mascot uniform, and they approved it. So we bought one, and they said, ‘Okay, who’s going to wear it?’ I said, ‘I will.’ And so, we initiated a tradition that the student mascot remained anonymous. You just appeared in your mascot uniform, but no one knew who it was.”
W. Leroy Fanning (’64),
first person to don the Roomie costume, University of Tennessee professor emeritus
No.
34
What Century?
When we write about alumni and stories from Southeastern’s past, we now can’t omit any numbers.
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35
The Real Roomie
Roomie the Lion got his name from Hollis “Roomie” Wilson, an all-star athlete who dominated in football, basketball, baseball, and track. But his contributions didn’t stop on the field—he later became a beloved biology professor and steward of Southeastern’s campus. Known for his dedication and larger-than-life personality, Wilson’s legacy roars on through the mascot that represents Southeastern’s pride, energy, and sense of community. Naming Roomie after him was the ultimate nod to one of Southeastern’s greats.
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36
“Those who kiss beneath the oaks’ boughs one day will share marriage vows.”
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37
Guardians of Tradition and Time
The sprawling live oaks of Southeastern are more than just trees—they are the quiet sentinels of the campus, witnessing generations of students as they walk beneath their wide, sheltering branches. Scattered throughout the grounds, these mighty oaks create a canopy that weaves together Southeastern’s past, present, and future. Their gnarled limbs stretch gracefully toward the sky, providing shade for studying, resting, or simply enjoying the surrounding beauty. Each tree tells a story, standing firm through the years, weathering storms and the passage of time, much like the university they adorn. These live oaks are a constant, offering a sense of peace and permanence. Together, they form a natural landmark, reminding us all of the deep roots Southeastern has in its community and the enduring spirit that flourishes here.
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38
Grammy-Winning Alumni
Southeastern’s musical legacy runs deep, with two alumni who have achieved the music industry’s highest honor—the Grammy. Leading this legacy is jazz legend Bill Evans, a trailblazing pianist whose work with Miles Davis and his own trios changed the landscape of jazz forever. Each year, the Bill Evans Jazz Festival is organized by Southeastern in his honor.
No.
39
Cracking the Books in Peace and Quiet
Standing as a beacon of knowledge at Southeastern, Sims Memorial Library is not only a resource for research; it’s a quiet haven for students seeking focus and reflection—and a second home during long nights of studying. With three floors of books, study spaces, and technology services, the library serves as the academic heart of the university. Its archives preserve the rich history of Southeastern and the region, while its cutting-edge resources push the boundaries of student learning and creativity. However, many students remember it for the long hours spent there, ones filled with late-night study sessions, breakthroughs, and the occasional coffee-fueled cramming marathon. From the focused energy of finals week to the calm corners for reflection, Sims Memorial Library is where Southeastern students dive deep into their academic journey.
No.
40
Not too big. Not too small. Just Right.
“It was small enough to feel intimate, yet large enough to offer the full college experience I craved. Leaving home was daunting, but Southeastern provided the perfect balance.”
Rhonda Southall (’82),
investment assistant
No.
41
Understanding the “Why”
“My calculus teacher didn’t rely on calculators, and the way he explained calculus was next level; I still have those memories with me forever. And I grew to love calculus—which no one loves calculus. But it was because I really understood the why behind the course.”
Jonetta Kaiser,
entrepreneur, coder, and actress (Vampire Academy, A Party to Die For)
No.
42
Volunteerism at its Best
Each year, Southeastern’s campus community and alumni roll up their sleeves for The Big Event, a day dedicated to volunteering across Hammond. It’s a powerful show of unity and a chance for everyone to give back together, strengthening the connection between Southeastern and its hometown.
No.
43
Finding Peace and Inspiration
“I was in the library all the time at Southeastern. And sometimes I would just go out on campus with my little notepad and allow myself to just be.”
Farrah Rochon (’01),
a New York Times bestselling author, recounted of working on her first novel while a student at Southeastern
No.
44
Staying Together After Graduation
When our college days end, there’s still so many events throughout the year to get back together, including Alumni networking socials, happy hours, crawfish boils, and of course tailgating and games.
No.
45
Living at the Epicenter
Hammond isn’t just home—it’s the perfect crossroads for Southeastern to meet the world. With highways and railways running through, it’s a gateway that brings together the charm of a small town with the convenience of being at the center of it all. Whether making the quick drive to New Orleans or Baton Rouge, hopping on an Amtrak to as far north as Chicago, or simply enjoying the local community, Hammond’s central location keeps members of the campus community connected to everything they need. It’s a place where roots grow deep, but opportunities stretch far, making it a vibrant part of the Southeastern experience.
No.
46
Creating a Fanfare
Since its debut in 1986, Fanfare has brought a rich mix of arts and culture to Southeastern’s campus for a full month each fall, transforming the university into a vibrant cultural hub for students and the community alike. This celebration of the arts, humanities, and social sciences has been a staple for four decades, connecting the Southeastern family to the creative pulse of Louisiana. For students, Fanfare is a gateway to performances and talks that open new perspectives, while for alumni and local residents, it’s a beloved tradition that brings them back to campus year after year. Walking into a Fanfare event— whether it’s a moving play, an inspiring musical performance, or a thought- provoking lecture—feels like stepping into the heart of Southeastern’s cultural legacy, a reminder of the enduring role the arts play in shaping minds and bringing people together.
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47
It’s a Launching Pad for Greatness
“Southeastern was the gateway to everything else that happened in my life.”
Hon. Carl J. Barbier (’66),
judge, US District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana
No.
48
High Kicks
“We used the Rockettes as an example because everybody wanted to do what they were doing.”
Kathy Pittman (’71),
former Lionette and Southeastern Alumni Association director
No.
49
Supplying Support
Southeastern is home to the first collegiate recovery program in Louisiana, Lion Up Recovery.
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50
Top of the South
Southeastern frequently ranks among the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, recognized for its academic quality and student success.
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51
Small Biz Boosters
Southeastern’s Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC) is a leader in supporting small businesses and startups, providing valuable resources that drive local economic growth.
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52
The Pride is Loud Here
Strawberry Stadium isn’t just a place for football games; it’s the epicenter of school spirit. On game days, the air is thick with anticipation and excitement as students, staff, faculty, alumni, and the community come together to cheer for their team—a tradition that began in 1937. Beyond football, the stadium is a symbol of camaraderie, where the Southeastern family gathers to celebrate victories, big and small. From tailgating on Saturday afternoons to thrilling nighttime matchups under the stadium lights, Strawberry Stadium pulses with Lion pride.
No.
53
The Return of Football
After being cut in 1985 due to increased budgetary constraints, football returned to Strawberry Stadium in 2003—giving Lions Football fans the opportunity to start rocking the Berry again for the first time in nearly a generation.
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54
Spirit for Life
“[During Homecoming Week], it’s so nice seeing cheer alumni come back home. It’s so nice to see them come here with their little kids in their cheerleading outfits, and to know that they’ve become part of a program years ago and they still give back to that program now.”
Catherine Lawrence (’15),
Southeastern director of spirit and coordinator of LAA
No.
55
Going Greek
Southeastern’s Greek organizations are more than just letters—they’re communities where students build lifelong friendships, grow as leaders, and give back through service. Fraternities and sororities bring a unique energy to campus, hosting events, fundraisers, and traditions that unite students and strengthen the Lion spirit. With a focus on academics, leadership, and philanthropy, Greek life at Southeastern creates a sense of belonging and pride that extends far beyond graduation.
No.
56
We All Share a Common Purpose
“The student population was from all walks of life, with varied interests, working for degrees to build successful futures.”
Jane Alldredge (’68),
daughter of Roomie Hollis Wilson, retired
No.
57
Healthcare Excellence
Our award-winning nursing program is nationally accredited and known for producing highly skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals.
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58
Channel of Champions
The Southeastern Channel has won multiple awards for its quality student programming, earning regional and national recognition for excellence in broadcasting.
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59
A Pioneer for Equality
In 1955, Southeastern became one of the first integrated colleges in the South, prompting other institutions to follow suit.
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60
Tinsley “Lives” Here
Legend has it that the spirit of President Gladney Tinsley (’45-’51), a strong contributor to the success and growth of Southeastern, has stayed to keep watch of our beloved university from the then President’s Residence (now the Foundation Center).
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61
History Keepers
Located in Sims Memorial Library, the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies helps preserve the history and culture of Southeast Louisiana, serving scholars and the community alike.
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62
Fashion Flip
The 1970s brought a push for freedom: Dorm life evolved, curfews loosened, air-conditioned rooms and private phones were added, and strict dress codes were relaxed, allowing women for the first time to wear—(gasp!)—pants.
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63
A Lifetime of Accreditation
Southeastern has nearly 80 years of university-wide accreditation under its belt. With the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges’ (SACSCOC’s) seal of approval, students know they’re getting top-quality education and programs that keep raising the bar.
No.
64
If It Doesn’t Already Exist, You Can Start It
“When I started at KSLU there was no jazz program, so I went to the director and asked to start a jazz hour—or three hours. Because such a program didn’t yet exist, I started with Southern rock— which I knew nothing about—while we worked on creating the jazz program.”
Craig Klein (’84),
Grammy-winning jazz musician
No.
65
Molding All Stars
“Playing football at Southeastern prepared me very well to go to the NFL because of the quality of football there. Coach Galloway had a great impact on me and he was tough on us, but that’s what we needed. I came to Southeastern weighing 162 pounds and grew from the training to 215. The entire coaching staff at that time helped me get to where I needed to be.”
Billy Andrews (’67),
former NFL linebacker (Browns, Chargers, and Chiefs)
No.
66
COOOOKIEEEEES!
No one’s blue when the Mane Dish’s cookies are brought out.
No.
67
Creativity in Every Corner
Southeastern’s campus is a living gallery, where public art sparks creativity and adds a unique character to the university. Each piece—whether abstract or representational—invites reflection, conversation, and a deeper connection to the university’s culture.
No.
68
The Great Whisky Swap
“My friend Ernie Bush (also class of ’74) and I used to go to Southeastern football games. We’d bring a fifth of Bourbon—but by halftime, it would be gone. So, he got smart and brought a fifth of Scotch to the next game. No one wanted to drink it, so it lasted for several games.”
Randy Bracy (’74),
owner of Bracy’s Nursery and Scotch collector
No.
69
Feeling the Love
“Having the crowd go crazy and cheer for you—it’s just an amazing feeling.”
Shelby Bordelon,
student, Lionette, and 2024 Miss Southeastern
No.
70
It Helps You Hit the Ground Running
“It set me up to handle real-world experiences and not be a deer in the headlights, and to know what employers expect and how to communicate in the real world. So many things that I learned in my program I’m applying every single day in my work.”
Kyle Snyder (’21),
Universal Orlando Resort EHS construction specialist
No.
71
Radio Innovators
In 1996, KSLU radio station made history as one of the first noncommercial stations in the world to broadcast via the internet. Less than a decade earlier, they also made waves as the first station in the South to install a digital touchscreen operating system—attracting radio personnel from across the world to visit and see it in operation.
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72
The Spirit of the Southland
The Spirit of the Southland Marching Band brings Southeastern’s energy to life, from game days to campus events. With every powerful beat, they rally lion nation and create unforgettable moments. For band members and fans alike, it’s a tradition of passion and pride that echoes across campus.
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Southeastern ❤️ Veterans
Our university has been consistently recognized as a top choice for members of the military, veterans, and family of current and past service members—including achieving a Military Friendly® School designation for 12 consecutive years and counting. An entire department, the Office of Military and Veteran Success, has even been established to support their transition to campus life and their long-term success.
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74
A Celebration for the Books
In 1950, Southeastern marked its 25th anniversary with a week of attention-grabbing festivities. Even Vice President of the United States Alben Barkley, along with Governor Earl K. Long and other prestigious guests, felt the event too important to miss. A formal Silver Jubilee Dance was also held to christen the brand-new War Memorial Student Union—with legendary band leader Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra taking the stage.
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75
Finding Your People
Southeastern’s student organizations offer more than activities; they’re where friendships form, passions emerge, and students find their place. Since the founding of the first club, these groups have connected students across backgrounds, creating a community that grows each year. From academic and cultural groups to arts and service clubs, Southeastern organizations foster bonds and experiences that span generations and last a lifetime.
No.
76
A Century of Love Stories Started Right Here
“Hayes (’15) proposed at the Homecoming Tailgate on October 17, 2015. He had all of our family there. He had ordered an engraved brick from the Alumni Association. Hayes wanted to show me the brick, and it read, “Megan M. Bonck/ Will You Marry Me?/ Your Marine”. I turned around to find him on his knee with a ring in a Cinderella carriage jewelry box. I immediately started crying and accepted.”
Megan Walker (’14),
English teacher
No.
77
Top-Quality, Wallet-Friendly
Southeastern is consistently recognized for its excellent value, making quality education accessible without the heavy price tag.
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78
Running Wild
In the spring of 1974, Southeastern joined the wild national trend of “streaking,” where students stripped down and dashed through campus, a prank that captured the carefree, rebellious spirit of the times. It started with a masked group running through the parking lot between Hammond and Taylor Halls, shocking some and delighting others. Within days, streaking “shows” became a spectacle at the tennis courts, drawing crowds of cheering students who playfully ran alongside streakers to shield them from campus security.
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Career Kickstarters
An abundance of internship opportunities, with big names such as the New Orleans Saints, Good Morning America, and Disney, bridge learning and doing. With hands-on experiences across industries, students build real skills, make connections, and step confidently into the job market. These internships are more than resume builders— they’re launchpads, helping students go from campus life to career success.
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80
We Know from Experience
“Once I got into the nursing program, I was amazed by the teachers and their real-life experiences in the field. The practical approach to education and focus on patient care really stood out to me.”
Ginger Daniel (’98),
registered nurse
No.
81
It Opens Unexpected Doors
“I met some Spanish-speaking patients when I interned at St. Jude the summer after my freshman year, and they had a really big impact on me. I saw the challenges that they navigate in cancer treatment in a second language, and I knew I wanted to go back and work with these kids and help them feel more comfortable by treating them in their native language. Through studying Spanish, the whole world has been opened up to me. I’ve gotten to experience new things I never would have before and see places that I probably wouldn’t have explored if I hadn’t studied Spanish. And, I get to work with Spanish-speaking patients now, which has been my dream.”
Hayley Arceneaux (’14),
St. Jude physician assistant, author (Wild Ride), and record-setting commercial astronaut
No.
82
Building on Tradition
The campus’ architecture is a harmonious blend of old and new, with historic art deco buildings standing proudly alongside modern, innovative designs. The traditional brick facades and iconic columns reflect the university’s roots, while the sleek, contemporary spaces highlight its forward-looking vision. Together, they create a dynamic and inspiring campus that feels both timeless and fresh.
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It’s a Way of Life
“My life has been greatly impacted by Southeastern since the very beginning. My dad was a teacher here, and we moved to Hammond when I was just three weeks old. I grew up here, went to the Lab School, and then came here for college. I met my husband here. After graduation he was in the Army and we moved around. We eventually came back to Hammond and Southeastern, because it is home.”
Jill Worth (’80),
administrative assistant
No.
84
Connections that Last
“My time at Southeastern wasn’t defined by athletics or lavish amenities, but by the personal connections I made. Those relationships, fostered by caring faculty and staff, continue to shape my life today. While the campus may have changed, the sense of family and support I experienced will always stay with me.”
Ida Halliburton (’99),
US Department of Affairs staff assistant
No.
85
Uncovering Species
It’s not every day that a new species of crocodile is discovered. But in 2019 an assistant professor of biology, Christopher Murray, and his fellow alumnus Caleb McMahan did just that—claiming national fame for the epic find. This is just one tick on the list of Southeastern scientists who have done and continue to do knowledge-changing work. From sea turtles to salamanders and ants, around the world and at home with the archives of our Vertebrate Museum, Southeastern researchers help deepen our understanding of life on Earth.
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86
Finding a Path through ROTC
“As a member of the ROTC program, I was able to compete with the ranger challenge team, a varsity sports team that competed against other schools in the South like LSU and Alabama. That built a lot of my college experience. I still keep in touch with a handful of friends who were part of that program and were commissioned into the Army with me.”
Scott Henderson (’96),
retired US Army captain, medical sales director
No.
87
Foodie Heaven
Here, campus dining isn’t just good—it’s officially some of the best, having been ranked as the Best College Food in Louisiana and in the national Top 50. Whether loading up at the Mane Dish or grabbing a frap at Starbucks, our taste buds stay happy.
No.
88
We Get by with a Little Help from Our Friends
“As a Venezuelan high school graduate, the prospect of studying in the United States was both exhilarating and daunting. The decision to attend Southeastern was not made lightly. I had spent nearly a year in the states, immersing myself in the language and culture, before settling on this university. . . . Having a support system of peers made the transition infinitely smoother. . . . I was particularly drawn to the classes in horticulture, though that first semester did present a challenge with the language barrier. The camaraderie of my classmates, who generously shared their notes and guidance, was invaluable in helping me overcome that hurdle.”
Oswaldo De Armas (’78),
farm manager and administrator
No.
89
A World of Opportunities
Through Southeastern’s Study Abroad program, students can take their education to destinations around the globe, exploring new cultures, languages, and perspectives in real time. Whether it’s diving into business in Costa Rica, history in Peru, or language and culture in France or Spain, these experiences go far beyond the classroom. Each trip is carefully crafted to blend academic learning with cultural immersion, so students not only earn credits, but also gain a world of insight and personal growth. For many, studying abroad is the defining chapter of their college years—a time of independence, discovery, and unforgettable memories.
No.
90
Going Out of the Way for Others
“Dr. Mouledous is like a mother to me. Two weeks after arriving here, Hurricane Ida was coming, and she asked me how I was preparing for it. She offered to let me to stay with her at her house.
Natalia Turchin (’23),
soprano artist
No.
91
Discovering a Bigger Picture
“Coming from Kentwood, I had limited exposure to different backgrounds and cultural experiences. My time at Southeastern quickly broadened my horizons. One of the most significant impacts was meeting people from diverse backgrounds.”
Bruce Smith (’85),
retired oil and gas industry professional
No.
92
Best in Class
Our teacher education program is a standout, with the National Council for Teacher Quality ranking its secondary education program the best in Louisiana and awarding it an “A” rating. The accolades don’t stop there—our graduate-level education program has been named among the top 50 nationally. With alumni frequently recognized as Teacher of the Year for their schools, parishes, and state, Southeastern is proud to prepare some of the best educators out there.
No.
93
Eggs After Hours
During finals week, Late Night Breakfast serves up pancakes, eggs, and encouragement as staff and faculty treat students to a late-night study break.
No.
94
It Takes You Back
“Whenever I’m in the area, I can’t help but drive by the campus, eager to see what has changed and what remains the same. The familiar sights and sounds transport me back to those formative years, and I’m reminded of the indelible mark Southeastern has left on my life. . . . Once a lion, always a lion.”
Precious Alexander (’20),
homemaker and president of The Chosen One’s Foundation
No.
95
On Tuesdays We Wear Green
Every Tuesday, Southeastern shows its colors as students, staff, and faculty sport their green and gold gear to celebrate Lion pride. It’s a simple tradition that fills the campus with a shared sense of spirit, reminding everyone that they’re part of the Lion family.
No.
96
Stepping Up for the Cause
During WWII, many young men and women left to join the service. But the students and staff who stayed also found ways to contribute, from taking up posts in Strawberry Stadium’s press box to watch for enemy bombers, to working the fields each morning to save the local strawberry crops.
No.
97
You Learn How to Think, Not What to Think
“The professors never let their personal views influence their teaching and always presented both sides of an argument. I loved that the education was practical and gave me a well- rounded understanding of different perspectives.”
Taylor Picou (’18),
administrative assistant
No.
98
A Juicy Celebration
Every spring, Southeastern celebrates its roots with Strawberry Jubilee, filling the Student Union area with fresh strawberry treats, games, and music. It’s a relaxed, fun way for students to connect and unwind and a reminder of Southeastern’s ties to the crop that helped bring life to the region.
No.
99
Helping the Next Generation Find Their Footing
“Joining Zeta in the fall of 1988 became a defining part of my Southeastern experience. Being part of that community, that tribe, that extended family—it meant service, it meant camaraderie. I especially cherish the times we spent mentoring the younger girls coming up from high school.”
Antionette Gaines (’94),
insurance specialist
No.
100
Our Future is Bright
We’ve accomplished a century’s worth of amazing things, and there’s no slowing down. With a strong legacy to stand upon and the unstoppable dedication of our students, alumni, supporters, staff, and faculty, we’re ready to take on the future and continue making a lasting impact for generations to come.
