Becoming Louisiana
A journey into the lives and cultures that shaped our state.
Becoming Louisiana is an ambitious historical exploration tracing the many origins that converged to create the Louisiana we know today and will continue to become. The lecture series is intended to take place over the course of two years, with an exciting lineup of accomplished speakers. This project is a result of the combined efforts of the Friends of the Louisiana State Archives and the Friends of the Old State Capitol.
All lectures will be recorded and posted to the Louisiana Secretary of State Youtube Channel. We recommend giving the page a follow, and selecting the option to be notified when they post.
Check out the calendar below for upcoming lecture dates!
Upcoming Lectures
The Africans
March 24, 2026 | 5:30pm
Louisiana State Archives
3851 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge LA
Hosted by Friends of the Old State Capitol & Friends of the Louisiana State Archives
The Friends of the Louisiana State Archives and the Friends of the Old State Capitol are excited to invite you to the next lecture in the Becoming Louisiana series: The Africans, given by Chancellor John K. Pierre, Chancellor of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge.
We hope to see you there! Free admission.
Meet the Speaker Chancellor John K. Pierre, Chancellor of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge
John K. Pierre is Chancellor of Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge and former Chancellor of the Southern University Law Center. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Southern, a master’s degree in tax accounting from Texas Tech and is a Distinguished Alumnus of the Southern Methodist University School of Law.
He served in the Judge Advocates General Corps of the U.S. Army and has been an adjunct professor at several universities, including LSU.
The chancellor was involved in the long-running Baton Rouge school desegregation case, serving as co-counsel for the local branch of the NAACP. He is an advocate for advancements in technology, community outreach and partnerships that ensure opportunity for all.
The Germans
Speaker: Jay Schexnaydre
April 21
The Acadians
Speaker: Warren Perrin
May 26
The Spanish
Speaker: Robert Freedland
June 30
The Canary Islanders
Speaker: Chad LeBlanc
July 21
Join the Friend's Group Become a Friend
The Friends of the Old State Capitol have worked tirelessly over the years to preserve this National Historic Landmark. Their work led to the museum being placed under the Secretary of State's office, where it underwent a massive restoration.
Today, the Friends of the Old State Capitol provide volunteers and docents to assist the 60,000+ people who visit the building each year.
The Friends contribute their time, talent and treasure to support the Old State Capitol. They have funded major projects such as a multi-language audio tour and funding for traveling exhibits.
Become part of this vibrant group that supports one of the state's most magnificent landmarks!