A Legacy Returns: LSU Reactivates the Corps of Cadets

LSU is reactivating its historic Corps of Cadets, restoring a 165-year tradition of military training, leadership development, and public service at the university.

LSU Board of Supervisors member, Rico Alvendia, who is also a retired Lieutenant Colonel and Iraq war combat veteran, spearheaded this effort with the strong support of LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Scott Ballard and Supervisor Remy Starns. Ballard and Starns advocated for years for the return of the Corps of Cadets.

Photos by Emily Hodgkinson and Will Bergeron

“This program honors the university’s long-standing military heritage while preparing future leaders who embody the values of service, discipline, and excellence that define LSU.”

Rico Alvendia, LSU Board of Supervisors member

After his appointment in 2024, Alvendia worked with LSU’s Army, Navy, and Air Force ROTC leaders, namely, LTC Josh Turlock, Lt Col Terry Kostellic, and CAPT Mark Neiswiadomy to bring this to fruition and bring back the 165-year-old Corps of Cadets.

“As a veteran, I believe there is incredible value in restoring the Corps of Cadets,” said Alvendia. 

The reconstituted program is designed to prepare students for leadership in both military and civilian national security roles. Participation in the Corps is voluntary and open to undergraduates across all majors.

New Programs and a New Home

LSU is developing new academic options in partnership with academic units across campus. Proposed programs include a National Defense Leadership Development minor, certificate options in leadership, and cybersecurity-focused coursework that strengthens students’ preparation for defense and technology careers. The program also includes two pathways:

• An ROTC track: for students pursuing commissions in the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, or U.S. Marine Corps. Navy and Marine Corps programs are hosted through Southern University’s Navy ROTC detachment, and LSU students participating in those programs are fully integrated into the Corps of Cadets. The Air Force program also offers pathways for students interested in commissioning into the U.S. Space Force.
• A civilian leadership track: modeled after peer institutions such as Virginia Tech—for students interested in supporting national defense, public service, intelligence, cybersecurity, and related fields without necessarily pursuing military service.

The Corps will be housed in the newly renovated Emerging Technologies Center, located near LSU’s Digital Media Center and cybersecurity programs. The 65,000-square-foot facility is planned to accommodate up to 700 cadets and cadre, and will provide an integrated environment for military training, leadership development, and cyber education.

 

Learn more about the Corps’ return

Next Step

LSU's Scholarship First Agenda is helping achieve health, prosperity, and security for Louisiana and the world.

Learn More About LSU's Pentagon Priorities