When Centenary College of Louisiana celebrated its bicentennial in 2025, it marked a milestone few American institutions can claim. Centenary is the oldest chartered liberal arts college west of the Mississippi River—and after 200 years, it continues to find new ways to lead.
Nestled in Shreveport’s historic Highland neighborhood, Centenary is a selective, residential, national liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Small classes allow faculty to know students by name, understand their goals, and recognize their potential. That personal attention shows in the results, including a 94% placement rate for graduates entering medical school, as well as strong placement into law and other professional programs.
“What sets Centenary apart isn’t just our history. It’s what happens here every day,” said Dr. Christopher Holoman, president of Centenary College. “Our faculty know their students by name, challenge them personally, and champion them long after graduation. That’s been true for two hundred years, and it’s the foundation we’re building our third century on.”
Building for the Future
Nowhere is that momentum more visible than at Mickle Hall. In June, Centenary broke ground on the first phase of a multi-million-dollar renovation of the historic 1947 science building. Phase one includes a new ADA-compliant entrance and accessibility ramp, with completion expected by late August. In February, Congress approved a $10 million federal appropriation supporting the renovation, which will transform Mickle Hall into a state-of-the-art home for the School of Health Sciences.
New Programs, New Investments
Centenary’s academic offerings expanded this year with a new International Studies major and the first hybrid Master of Education in Leadership. The new M.Ed. joins the M.B.A. and M.A.T. in serving working professionals.
“These new programs reflect who Centenary is at its core,” said Dr. Karen Soul, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “We’re growing in ways that stay true to our mission.”
The Centenary College Culture
Centenary’s global outlook begins early through the Centenary in Paris program, which has welcomed freshmen for the past decade. Students continue their international experiences through May Modules; last year, students traveled to Italy, New Zealand, Spain, Northern Ireland, Barbados, and Australia.
Back in Shreveport, more than 60 student organizations offer opportunities to connect and get involved. At its heart, Centenary provides a liberal arts education that teaches students to think critically, become independent individuals, and engage fully with the world—with professors who know them by name.
For families seeking a private college where students are known, challenged, and championed—and where a 200-year legacy fuels forward momentum—Centenary College of Louisiana deserves a close look.
Looking Ahead
Gents football returns to Atkins Field September 5, when Centenary hosts Westgate Christian University. The Meadows Museum of Art will launch three new exhibitions in late August, running through December 4. Book lovers can mark September 18-19 for the Centenary Muses’ Book Bazaar, a beloved campus tradition supporting the College and its students.
To keep up with Centenary, sign up for “The Weekly” at centenary.edu/weekly, visit centenary.edu, or schedule a campus visit at centenary.edu/visit.