ALEXANDRIA, La. (WNTZ) – Louisiana State University at Alexandria has received initial funding to build a 70,000-square-foot health education center in downtown Alexandria, a project aimed at meeting the region’s growing demand for healthcare professionals.

The state-of-the-art facility will feature advanced technology and modern training spaces for multiple healthcare disciplines. LSUA officials say the center will enhance existing programs and help increase the university’s annual number of nursing graduates to about 250, addressing a critical shortage of nurses and allied health professionals in central Louisiana.

Cleco has committed $1.4 million to the LSUA Foundation to support the project. The contribution, paired with state legislative backing and other local partnerships, was instrumental in securing construction funding.

“At Cleco, our responsibility goes beyond delivering reliable energy — it’s about powering the future of our communities,” said Bill Fontenot, president and CEO of Cleco Corporate Holdings LLC. “By supporting healthcare education programs, we’re not only helping students pursue meaningful careers, we’re building thriving communities where we can live, work, and succeed.”

The Louisiana Board of Regents and local healthcare providers have noted a shortage of more than 550 registered nurses and 170 allied health workers in the area. LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil said the new campus, located near major hospitals and healthcare providers, will “play a vital role in addressing the critical shortage” and strengthen ties with the community.

Cleco’s investment is part of a broader $43 million initiative to revitalize downtown Alexandria. The LSUA Health Education Campus will offer interdisciplinary training, advanced simulation resources, and collaborative opportunities with healthcare facilities.

Individuals interested in contributing to the project can visit www.lsuafoundation.org for more information.