Center of Excellence

Signature Programs

SU Together: Move More, Eat Better 

It is a health and fitness program developed by the Center of Excellence to support men and women ages 18 and older in taking control of their health through better nutrition and regular physical activity. The program emphasizes practical tools and real-world strategies to help participants build stronger bodies and develop lasting, healthy habits.

Join us at our Baton Rouge location as we work together to stay active, make smarter food choices, and live healthier lives. Whether you’re just getting started or need support to stay on track, we’re here for you every step of the way.

Let’s get fit together!

Rooted in Wellness: Greauxing Through Gardening

At the Center of Excellence, we believe that wellness begins with the roots. Our Community Gardening Initiative promotes physical activity, healthy eating, and mental well-being through engaging, hands-on gardening experiences.

We offer gardening workshops and provide access to community garden spaces that include raised beds, Tower Gardens, and walking trails. To further enrich these green spaces, we also donate benches, message boards, and Zen garden materials—creating areas for both physical activity and peaceful reflection.

These spaces are designed to help individuals grow fresh produce, build meaningful connections, and embrace sustainable practices.Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the COE offers an inclusive and supportive environment to dig in, grow together, and cultivate a healthier future.

Join us in planting seeds of wellness—one garden bed at a time.

Research: What Does Your Gut Say About You?  

The Center of Excellence is conducting an exciting research study focused on gut health and nutrition. This study explores how food impacts our health and how it is processed in the body after being eaten.

To be eligible, individuals must meet specific criteria ,including factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), and other health-related considerations. Additional details are available upon request. Participants will be compensated upon completion of the study.

Help us better understand how nutrition influences gut health and overall wellness.

SU Together: Seaux and Sew  

SU Together: Seaux and Sew is a signature hands-on program from the Center of Excellence, in collaboration with the Southern UniversityFab Lab. This engaging and creative class is designed to empower participants with practical, everyday skills by teaching the basics of sewing and alterations. Participants will learn how to thread and operate a sewing machine, along with essential techniques for mending and modifying clothing.

The workshop offers a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all skill levels to learn, practice, and build confidence—one stitch at a time.

Come learn a valuable life skill, connect with your community, and create something unique!