UNO Students, Alumni Weigh In on Return to LSU System

Survey shows mixed reactions to school's transition, with concerns about identity and benefits

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:07am

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A new survey of over 1,000 University of New Orleans students and 300 alumni shows that while most support the school's return to the LSU System, many worry the move could dilute UNO's identity. The transition, set for July 1, will see UNO renamed LSU New Orleans and adopt LSU's colors, raising concerns about potential tuition hikes, program cuts, and the campus being overshadowed by LSU's flagship.

Why it matters

The return of UNO to the LSU System comes after years of enrollment declines and financial strain at the university, with supporters hoping for more stable funding, increased enrollment, and improved degree value. However, the survey highlights the concerns of students and alumni about preserving UNO's distinct identity and culture.

The details

The survey found that about 65% of students and 59% of alumni favor the move back to the LSU System, but both groups cited worries about losing the UNO brand, potential tuition and fee changes, loss of academic programs, and fears that the campus could be overshadowed by LSU's flagship. Supporters point to the possibility of more stable funding, increased enrollment and improved degree value as key benefits.

  • The transition to the LSU System is set for July 1, 2026.

The players

University of New Orleans

A public university in New Orleans, Louisiana that is currently part of the University of Louisiana System but will be transitioning to the LSU System on July 1, 2026.

LSU System

The Louisiana State University System, a public university system in Louisiana that includes the flagship LSU campus in Baton Rouge as well as several other universities.

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What’s next

The transition of UNO to the LSU System is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The survey results highlight the mixed reactions of UNO students and alumni to the school's return to the LSU System, with concerns about preserving UNO's distinct identity and culture balanced against hopes for more stable funding and improved degree value. The transition will be closely watched as UNO works to maintain its legacy while integrating with the larger LSU system.