Southern University receives $5M investment from Shell to advance business and engineering programs, expand student success initiatives

Southern University and A&M College has received a transformative $5 million investment from Shell to expand student success initiatives in the College of Business and the College of Sciences and Engineering. This investment directly supports the Southern University System’s Strategic Pillars, including Student Success.

A significant portion of the investment will enhance the chemical engineering program within the College of Sciences and Engineering to prepare students to become competitive scientists, engineers, and innovators. Shell’s support will strengthen curriculum development, laboratory operations, and experiential learning opportunities that align with the college’s strategic innovation and transformation goals.

In addition, the investment will fund the creation of a Student Success Center designed to provide students with academic support, career development tools, and supplemental instruction. These resources are critical to ensuring students thrive both in the classroom and in their future careers.

“We are proud to continue to partner with Shell, which has a consistent presence on the Baton Rouge campus,” said Dennis J. Shields, president of the Southern University System. “Positive student outcomes is a top priority, and corporate engagement is vital to this. Collaborating with Shell at this level ensures that we can continue to produce a prepared and poised workforce.”

Shell’s investment also reflects its commitment to advancing STEM education and building a skilled workforce. The company actively supports Southern through its involvement in the Business and Industry Cluster and the College of Sciences and Engineering’s Executive Leadership Council, helping align academic programs with evolving industry needs.

“We are proud to strengthen our partnership with Southern University through this transformative investment in engineering education and student success,” said Emma Lewis, executive vice president for Shell Chemicals. “By supporting both infrastructure and academic resources, we are empowering the next generation of innovators and leaders who will shape the future of energy and technology.”

This contribution also reinforces Southern’s mission to deliver high-impact learning experiences that prepare students for leadership in STEM and business fields.

“The mission of the College of Sciences and Engineering is to provide transformative educational experiences — this generous gift will allow us to do so,” said Lealon Martin, dean of the College of Sciences and Engineering.

This latest contribution exemplifies the power of collaboration between higher education and industry to drive innovation, student achievement, and economic growth — all central to Southern University’s strategic vision for the future.