Construction is underway on the new 4,709 square-foot alumni pavilion located in the Alumni Grove directly south of the Stream Alumni Center at McNeese State University.

The Robert Noland Alumni Pavilion – which began in August – is the culmination of years of planning by the McNeese Alumni Association Board of Directors.

“As the university continues to expand programs, events and community services, the need for a large outdoor facility became more apparent,” said Blake McCaskill, alumni president.

The $650,000 project is being funded primarily through the generosity of Lake Charles businessman Robert Noland, according to McCaskill. Additional funds were received from the McNeese Alumni Association, the student Campus Development Committee and the PetroChem Athletic Booster organization. The building has been designed with the option of being enclosed and used as an indoor multipurpose facility in the future, he added.

The pavilion was designed by architect Randy M. Goodloe, AIA, and John D. Myers and Associates is the contractor for this project. The expected completion date is summer 2014.

The Robert Noland Alumni Pavilion will feature air-conditioned restrooms, concession area, storage room, televisions, audio/visual equipment, large ceiling fans and McNeese ironwork. The pavilion will also be able to seat 270 people at 27 tables.

“This project would not be possible if not for Robert Noland’s support. He has done so much for McNeese and continues to find ways to make a real difference in the lives of our students,” says Joyce Patterson, alumni affairs director.

Noland has generously supported McNeese athletics over the years by providing funding for the resurfacing of the football field, the renovation of Cowboy Stadium, support for the rodeo team, cheerleaders and other athletic support groups. His support of McNeese also includes numerous academic scholarships and endowed funds for faculty development.

Noland currently serves as president and director of Bennett Oil Co. and president, chief executive officer and director of American Sulphur and Oil Co. of Louisiana.

Shown above is an artistic rendering of the new McNeese alumni pavilion designed by architect Randy M. Goodloe