New Orleans, October 10, 2025
News Summary
The University of New Orleans is exploring a name change to ‘LSU New Orleans’ during its reintegration into the LSU system. This move aims to address declining enrollment and financial struggles that have seen student numbers drop from 17,000 to about 6,000. While LSU has seen enrollment increases, UNO faces the challenge of a $30 million budget deficit. Mixed reactions from students highlight both concerns about losing the university’s identity and potential benefits from increased visibility and stability.
New Orleans – The University of New Orleans (UNO) is considering a significant rebranding effort to change its name to “LSU New Orleans” as part of its transition back into the Louisiana State University (LSU) system. This decision comes in the wake of critical enrollment challenges that the university has faced in recent years.
UNO’s enrollment has significantly declined, dropping from around 17,000 students before Hurricane Katrina to approximately 6,000 afterward. The university has suffered a $30 million budget deficit and has implemented measures such as layoffs and hiring freezes in an effort to manage finances. Meanwhile, the LSU System has reported increasing enrollments, highlighting a stark contrast with UNO’s struggles.
Matt Lee, the interim president of LSU, has expressed the importance of branding both universities together to enhance visibility and attract new students. There is an expectation that a transition team will be formed to address the changes relating to UNO’s programs and branding as part of the integration process.
UNO was originally named LSUNO when it opened its doors in 1956 but dropped the “LS” from its name in 1974 following student advocacy. The university only recently transitioned back to the LSU system, after state lawmakers approved the move due to ongoing enrollment challenges. Despite the proposed rebranding, some UNO students have mixed feelings about the potential loss of the university’s unique identity.
Students at UNO expressed varying opinions about the name change. Some believe that increased visibility and interest could benefit the institution, while others are concerned about losing the character that defines UNO. Additionally, there are apprehensions about possible tuition increases that might accompany the rebranding.
In its athletic history, UNO has a notable legacy, with its basketball coach Ron Greene leading the Privateers, named after the pirate Jean Lafitte, to the top of the Associated Press Division II poll in 1971. In its second basketball season, UNO achieved a record of 24-1 and surpassed Kentucky State to secure the top spot in the rankings.
On July 23, 2024, prospective students and their families toured the university, which serves as a vital educational institution in New Orleans. UNO president Kathy Johnson has expressed her support for whatever name LSU’s board decides and is anticipating broader stakeholder involvement in the decision-making process as the university navigates these changes.
The potential rebranding of UNO to LSU New Orleans has sparked a variety of opinions among the student body, with the overarching goal centered around bolstering enrollment and financial stability given the university’s history and commitment to serving the community of New Orleans.
Background Context
The University of New Orleans has a rich history, rooted in the educational needs of the New Orleans community. It traces its founding back to 1956, originally under the name LSUNO. As part of a broader educational framework, it evolved through advocacy and institutional changes that aimed to address the unique circumstances surrounding its operational and financial landscape. The ongoing integration back into the LSU system marks a new chapter for the university, potentially reshaping its identity and future ambitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the proposed new name for the University of New Orleans?
The university is considering adopting the name “LSU New Orleans” following its transition back to the LSU system.
Why is UNO considering a name change?
UNO is facing enrollment challenges and aims to boost visibility and financial stability through a rebranding effort.
How has student enrollment at UNO changed over the years?
UNO’s student enrollment has significantly declined over the last two decades, dropping from around 17,000 before Hurricane Katrina to approximately 6,000 afterward.
What financial challenges has UNO faced?
UNO has experienced a $30 million budget deficit and has implemented various budget management measures, such as layoffs and hiring freezes.
What background context is relevant to UNO’s decision?
The university was originally named LSUNO when it was founded in 1956 but dropped “LS” in 1974 following student advocacy.
What legacy does UNO have in athletics?
UNO’s athletic teams are named the Privateers, referencing the pirate Jean Lafitte, and have a notable history, including a top ranking in the Associated Press Division II poll in 1971.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Proposed Name Change | LSU New Orleans |
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 6,000 |
| Enrollment Trend | Declined from around 17,000 before Hurricane Katrina |
| Financial Situation | $30 million budget deficit |
| Historical Name | Originally LSUNO, dropped the ‘LS’ in 1974 |
| Key Athletic Achievement | Top ranking in AP Division II poll in 1971 |
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Additional Resources
- LA Illuminator
- Wikipedia: University of New Orleans
- McNeese Sports
- Google Search: University of New Orleans
- UNO Privateers
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