BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Southern University says they are continuing to expand for the future after breaking ground for a brand-new Global Innovation and Welcome Center Thursday. The center will be placed at the front of campus for better convenience. Southern University Chancellor John Pierre said the location is important. "It becomes an emblem of what the campus is all about," said Pierre. "It symbolizes that we're growing, and we're thriving in the 21st century." The 16,000-square-foot facility will house lecture halls, a theatre and conference rooms for the first phase. The second phase will be for another campus police department. Pierre said this is a great investment for the students. "What we want to do is we want to provide a transformational experience for our students and for all those who come on the bluff," he said. Southern University hosts groundbreaking ceremony for new outdoor classroom, amphitheater The Bluff isn't the only area benefiting from the new opportunities as well. Space will also be available for North Baton Rouge residents to host events and conferences to grow. Pierre said this will be a hub for excellence across the city. "I think it's something that people will enjoy doing because they'll see that they can come and be part of Southern University and Southern University will be part of them," he said. Construction is set to start early next year for phase one. Latest News Senate sends spending deal to Biden's desk, averting shutdown Senate passes bill to boost Social Security benefits for some Local dads bring smiles, support, and holiday cheer to students at Dutchtown Primary Southern University breaks ground for new welcome center on Baton Rouge campus Louisiana man accused of drugging, raping woman at Baton Rouge hotel arrested