Project
Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences
About the College
Nelson Mandela College is the only school of government in Louisiana and the region, with undergraduate programs in criminal justice, social work, sociology and psychology. The College also offers masters degrees in public administration, criminal justice, and social sciences as well as a doctorate degree in public policy. Following the legacy of Nelson Mandela, the College uses the principles of ethical practice, accountability, excellence, and community engagement in delivering its program.
Degree Programs
- UNDERGRADUATE - Criminal Justice, History, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work, and Sociology
- GRADUATE - Criminal Justice, Psychology, Public Administration, Social Science, and Public Policy
- CERTIFICATIONS - Supply Chain Management
- ONLINE - Criminal Justice Undergraduate & Masters, and Public Administration Masters
Rooted in a legacy of resilience and social change, the Nelson Mandela College of Government and Social Services impowers 1500 students to become future leaders in government and social services. Improved classroom areas and a new auditorium are paramount to enhancing undergraduate and master’s programs fostering a dynamic learning environment. By investing in new facilities and scholarship funds, the College continues to expand its legacy of empowerment, preparing students for tomorrow’s challenges.
Renovation of Rodney G. Higgins Hall will deliver improved facilities for the students through:
- Improved and expanded classroom areas
- A new auditorium
- Improved building systems and infrastructure
- Faculty offices and lounges
- Reading rooms and common areas
- Practice field for the band
| Number of Stories | 4 |
| Building Height | 60’ |
| Existing Building Area | 74,900 sf |
| Atrium/Skylight Area (Floor/Roof Openings) | 2,200 sf |
| Lobby Enclosure | 1,800 sf |
| Renovated Area (Interiors) | 72,300 sf |
Cost Estimate
| IMPROVEMENT | COST | SECURED | NEEDED | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renovation Cost (Atrium/Skylight/Lobby) | $5,500,000 | |||
| Renovation Cost (Remaining Interiors) | $16,100,000 | |||
| Soft Costs | $2,900,000 | |||
| TOTAL CONSTRUCTION COSTS | $24,500,000 | $24,500,000 | ||
| Endowment Programming | $5,340,000 | $5,340,000 | ||
| TOTAL PROJECT COST | $29,840,000 | $29,840,000 |
“The Mandela College of Government and Social Sciences is a vital part of the Southern University tapestry, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in criminal justice, public administration, public policy, and social work, developing leaders of tomorrow from the1500 students enrolled. Enhancements to the College’s Higgins Hall will improve student learning through new classrooms, meeting spaces, and student amenities while improving faculty offices and facilities.”
DAMIEN D. EJIGIRI
“If we want to see the continued growth of Southern University, it is imperative to give back. My goal is to make continued investments to support my beloved alma mater. My late mother, an SU alum, instilled in me a reverence for higher education that I have carried throughout my time on The Bluff. I am grateful to have had amazing professors who demanded the very best of me. These challenges have enhanced my learning experiences, and have provided a platform to compete on professional levels as I pursue my desire to become an attorney.”
BRYCE A. HUDSON
- Major: Political Science
- Hometown: Baton Rouge, Louisiana