Baton Rouge, September 19, 2025
News Summary
LSU Interim President Matt Lee delivered a State of the University address highlighting record freshman enrollment, growth in research funding exceeding $500 million, and significant capital investments. With goals to increase enrollment, expand research funding to $900 million, and enhance healthcare programs, LSU targets key areas such as cybersecurity and coastal restoration for future development. Infrastructure plans include adding 1,200 new student housing beds and constructing a 193,000-square-foot library. The search for LSU’s next president is underway as the university charts its strategic course.
BATON ROUGE – LSU Interim President Matt Lee delivered a State of the University address today at noon, detailing several ambitious goals and recent achievements of Louisiana State University (LSU). The address provided a comprehensive update on LSU’s performance and progress across its eight campuses, highlighted by significant accomplishments.
During the livestream, Lee announced that LSU enrolled its largest-ever freshman class this year. This positive trend is complemented by the university’s research enterprise, which has grown to over $500 million. Additionally, LSU has invested millions in various capital projects, marking a strong step forward in enhancing its facilities and student experience. Notably, full-time students will benefit from the university’s successful football team, which secured a No. 3 national ranking this season.
However, Lee emphasized that the current successes are not enough. He outlined further ambitions for LSU, aiming to increase enrollment rates and expand the university’s research portfolio to as much as $900 million. Plans include doubling the number of LSU doctoral students and enhancing health programs to address workforce shortages in healthcare.
Future Focus Areas
Lee identified five key subject areas that will be central to LSU’s focus moving forward:
- Coastal restoration
- Defense and cybersecurity
- Agriculture
- Biomedical and health sciences
- Coastal resilience
Research on coastal restoration will aim to identify hurricane mitigation strategies while tackling the state’s looming insurance crisis. Meanwhile, cybersecurity research is intended to aid Louisiana businesses in protecting their sensitive data.
Infrastructure Developments
In addition to research growth, LSU is making strides in campus development. The university is expanding student housing, with a goal to add 1,200 new beds by 2027. Furthermore, a new 193,000-square-foot library is expected to break ground next year, which will enhance students’ access to resources and study space.
Presidential Search
As LSU moves forward with these initiatives, it remains uncertain whether Matt Lee will continue as interim president. The university launched a nationwide search for a new president over the summer, enlisting the firm SSA Consultants to assist with the process. LSU hopes to conclude the search by December.
Conclusion
The State of the University address outlined a future replete with opportunities and targeted growth for LSU. By focusing on essential areas like cybersecurity and healthcare, the university aims to bolster both its reputation and its role in the community by meeting current and future challenges head-on.
FAQ
What major accomplishments were highlighted in the State of the University address?
LSU enrolled its largest-ever freshman class, the university’s research enterprise has grown to over $500 million, and LSU’s football team secured a No. 3 national ranking.
What are the ambitious goals set by LSU Interim President Matt Lee?
Matt Lee aims to increase enrollment rates, expand the university’s research portfolio to as much as $900 million, and double the number of LSU doctoral students.
What five key subject areas will LSU focus on?
The five key subject areas are coastal restoration, defense and cybersecurity, agriculture, biomedical and health sciences, and coastal resilience.
What infrastructure developments are planned for LSU?
LSU plans to expand student housing with 1,200 new beds by 2027 and break ground on a new 193,000-square-foot library next year.
Is Matt Lee staying as interim president?
It is uncertain if Matt Lee will remain as interim president as LSU launched a nationwide search for a new president over the summer.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
LSU Interim President Unveils Ambitious University Vision
Shooting Near Raising Cane’s Leaves One in Critical Condition
Shooting Incident Leaves One Injured in Shreveport
Shreveport Police Arrest Suspect in Deadly Apartment Shooting
Viral TikTok Account Highlights Public Urination at LSU
LSU Students Spark Viral Trend with Landmark Pranks
LSU Offers Parking Citation Amnesty for Freshmen
Julia Letlow Announces She’s Not Pursuing LSU Presidency
LSU Shreveport Reports Record Enrollment Growth
Transforming Lives in New Orleans with Prosthetics Innovation
Additional Resources
- WAFB: LSU Interim President to Deliver State of the University Address
- Wikipedia: Louisiana State University
- NOLA: LSU Interim President Matt Lee Address
- Google Search: Louisiana State University news
- Business Report: LSU is Winning Across the Board
- Google Scholar: Louisiana State University LSU
- WBRZ: LSU Interim President Issues State of the University Address
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Louisiana State University
- Biz New Orleans: LSU Growth Priorities in Address
- Google News: LSU Interim President Matt Lee
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
