The University of New Orleans will leave the University of Louisiana System and rejoin the LSU System, school officials announced Tuesday in a message to students, faculty, and staff.
The shift follows a May recommendation by the Louisiana Board of Regents, which noted UNO’s ongoing struggle to regain its “pre-Katrina ability to serve its students.” In recent years, the university has grappled with declining enrollment, state funding cuts, and a $30 million budget shortfall that forced layoffs and freezes on new spending, according to the Louisiana Illuminator.
By moving back under LSU, UNO is expected to gain access to broader financial resources, fundraising networks, and shared administrative services. Leaders say the transition will stabilize UNO’s budget, ease pressure on its academic departments, and open doors to expanded research partnerships and grant opportunities. LSU’s larger endowment and alumni base could also help UNO invest in areas it has struggled to support on its own — such as student services, faculty retention, and campus infrastructure.
“UNO’s future is bright,” the university’s leadership said in its message. “This move brings real opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the city we call home.”
UNO previously left the LSU System in 2011 to join the UL System, a move celebrated by many who felt the New Orleans campus was overshadowed by LSU. But over the past decade, the school has struggled to regain financial stability and reverse enrollment declines. Advocates of the switch argue that aligning with LSU now offers the best chance to strengthen UNO’s long-term viability.
Below is the full message sent by UNO leadership:
Dear Privateer Nation,
We know many of you have questions following the legislature’s decision to return the University of New Orleans to the LSU System. Change — especially in higher education — can bring uncertainty. But we’re writing to say this clearly: UNO’s future is bright.
Yes, we’ve faced challenges. But this move brings real opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the city we call home. It gives UNO access to the broader resources and support of the LSU System, while preserving the unique mission and spirit that define this university.
To this end, last week we brought our leadership teams together, along with several members of the LSU Board of Supervisors, for an introductory meeting. The enthusiasm and optimism in the room was tangible, and set the stage for many productive discussions to come.
New Orleans is a world-class city, and it deserves a strong, thriving public research university. UNO is ready to meet that moment in lockstep with LSU.
To all Privateers past, present, and future: welcome home. We’re stronger together, and this next chapter will build on everything that makes UNO special. The changes ahead will lift not just this university, but the city and communities we serve.
We’re excited for what’s next. Stay tuned for more details as we begin this important transition process.
Sincerely,
Interim LSU President Matt Lee
UNO President Kathy Johnson
