University of New Orleans Students, Alumni Support Rejoining LSU System

But both groups express concerns over potential loss of school's identity in transition

Jan. 29, 2026 at 6:39pm

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A survey of more than 1,000 University of New Orleans students and 300 alumni found that a majority support the school's transfer from the University of Louisiana System to the LSU System, though they are worried the 68-year-old institution could lose its identity in the process.

Why it matters

The move to rejoin the LSU System comes as UNO has faced a long-running enrollment decline, causing a fiscal crisis for the school. Supporters hope the transition will provide more stable funding and increased enrollments, but there are concerns the university could be overshadowed by LSU's flagship campus.

The details

While 65% of surveyed students and 59% of alumni expressed support for the move, both said loss of the legacy UNO brand as a top concern. Part of the transition includes returning the university to its original name, LSU New Orleans, and adopting purple and gold as the school's colors, shedding its current blue and silver. Students also named tuition and fees changes and the potential loss of academic programs as some of their top worries. Among alumni, there is also fear that the university could be overshadowed by LSU's flagship campus.

  • The move will go into effect on July 1, 2026.
  • Legislators moved UNO to the University of Louisiana System 14 years ago, after the school was affiliated with LSU since its founding in 1958.

The players

University of New Orleans

A 68-year-old public research university in New Orleans that is currently part of the University of Louisiana System.

LSU System

The statewide university system that includes Louisiana State University's flagship campus in Baton Rouge and several other research-focused institutions.

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What’s next

The transfer of UNO to the LSU System is scheduled to be finalized on July 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The proposed move of the University of New Orleans to the LSU System highlights the complex challenges facing regional public universities, as they balance maintaining their distinct identities with the potential benefits of joining a larger, more prominent university system.