LSUA Partners with U.S. Army Garrison Fort Polk to Expand Educational Opportunities for Military Community

FORT POLK, LA (7/25/2025) – Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the United States Army Garrison at Fort Polk, formally establishing an educational partnership designed to serve military personnel, families, retirees, and the broader Fort Polk community.

Through this strategic collaboration, LSUA will extend affordable, high-quality educational opportunities directly to the installation, enhancing academic access and supporting military readiness.

Under the agreement, Fort Polk’s Education Services Office (ESO) will work closely with LSUA staff to facilitate soldiers’ access to Army tuition assistance and provide necessary space for administrative personnel, faculty, and classroom instruction. Classes will primarily be offered during off-duty hours, prioritizing military members and their families, with additional enrollment capacity open to others as available.

Brig. Gen. Jason Curl, Commander of the Joint Readiness Training Center (JRTC) and Fort Polk, emphasized the significance of the partnership for the military community, stating, “It’s another opportunity for our Soldiers to get an education. For both Soldiers and family members, it’s a great opportunity. The more opportunities, the better.”

For LSUA Chancellor Dr. Paul Coreil, the agreement carries both educational and patriotic significance. He explained, “Our mission is to educate the region, enhancing workforce development for our communities. However, partnering with Fort Polk holds a deeper meaning due to our profound respect for military service. LSUA is dedicated to supporting soldiers and their families by ensuring they have exceptional educational opportunities that honor their sacrifices. It’s a higher calling beyond our fundamental educational mission.”

Col. Adam Barlow, Fort Polk Garrison Commander, noted the benefits of having LSUA on-site: “Having LSUA classes at Fort Polk ensures that our soldiers and families can access quality education without leaving the installation. This partnership makes Fort Polk an even more attractive and resource-rich environment, providing valuable educational experiences that directly support promotions, career advancement, and future employment opportunities. It’s truly a win-win.”

This partnership underscores LSUA’s commitment to serving the educational needs of Central Louisiana, particularly those who serve our nation.

For more information about educational opportunities available at LSUA, visitexplore.lsua.edu.

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