SU Day draws hundreds

Hundreds of Southern University System supporters gathered Monday at the State Capitol to celebrate, commemorate and preserve the legacy of Southern University at its annual “SU Day at the State Capitol.”
Alumni, faculty and staff, supporters and students congregated at the Capitol’s steps while SU System President Ralph Slaughter, Gov. Kathleen Blanco and members of the state’s legislature provided rhetoric on why Southern University is so valuable to not only the state, but the world.
“They’re bills on the floor today that directly affect you (Southern)-,” said Sen. Charles D. Jones, D-Monroe. “I encourage each and every one of you to talk to each and every one of these legislators-”
System Chairman Johnny Anderson, along with Blanco and Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus Chairman Cedric Richmond, D-New Orleans, expressed to the crowd their desire do what was necessary to keep the doors of Southern University open. They also pledged to restore the campus of Southern University at New Orleans, since it sustained wind and flood damage after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
“To close the doors of a university that has contributed so much is absurd,” Richmond said. “To shut down what is the only educational alternative for single parents and people who have to work during the day isn’t an option.”
Resolutions were passed in the Senate and House of Representatives commemorating April 24 as “SU Day” by Jones and Rep. Avon Honey, D-Baton Rouge. Southern’s men’s and women’s basketball teams were also honored with a resolution by Sen. Sharon W. Broome, D-Baton Rouge.
Capitol displays, along with tours were on hand for visitors also. Robyn Merrick, director of public affairs for the SU System said the day was a success.
“Today was a day to thank the legislature for what they have done,” Merrick said. “We want to raise awareness of the university among the legislature, particularly our uniqueness of being the only historically black college system in the country.”