Delta State University Showcases Progress, Investment, and Momentum at Town Hall
Cleveland, MS (09/09/2025) — CLEVELAND, MS - SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 - Delta State University today shared a strong message of progress and momentum during its campus-wide Town Hall. Leadership highlighted major capital improvements, financial stability, planned pay raise for employees, and a slate of upcoming celebrations that position the university for its next century of success.
Campus Growth and Improvements
Recent projects underscore Delta State's commitment to providing students with a modern, supportive learning environment. Among the completed upgrades:
Robert E. Smith School of Nursing Renovation & Expansion - $12.3 million investment added 14,000 square feet and fully renovated 21,500 existing square feet.
Water Tower Renovation - $182,000 restoration of interior and exterior, ensuring long-term campus infrastructure and clean drinking water.
Campus-Wide Enhancements - including new boilers, updated cooling systems, refinish of the campus pool, and expanded water bottle filling stations.
Current projects include $2.4 million ADA improvements to the Bologna Performing Arts Center, a complete remodel of Ward Hall to create apartment style suites, and renovations set for athletic facilities including baseball and softball lighting and enhancements to the Coliseum, and a new LED football scoreboard.
Financial Progress and Employee Investment
Delta State reported significant financial gains:
Increased Revenue and Reduced Operating Expenses - expenses are down more than $10.7 million year-over-year.
Cash Reserves Strengthened - Cash on hand nearly doubled to $11.5 million, increasing days of cash from 27 to 61.
In recognition of this progress, President Ennis announced plans for a 3% pay increase for all full-time employees beginning January 2026. It marks the first time in recent history that Delta State has been able to self-fund raises.
Delta State's progress has been made while holding tuition flat. The university has not increased tuition for three consecutive years, underscoring its commitment to affordability and access.
Looking Ahead
The university will mark several key milestones in the weeks ahead, including the Centennial Celebration on September 15, a Campus Wide Scholarship Celebration on October 16, and Homecoming Weekend beginning October 17.
A Community Effort
"None of this happens without people who believe in Delta State," said President Ennis. "We are grateful to our faculty, staff, alumni, student families, and a statewide community of partners who share in this mission."
"More students means more energy. You can feel the energy on this campus in our classrooms, residence halls, athletic fields, and around town. The excitement is real, and the future is bright. Let's go."
About Delta State University: Delta State University is a four-year public institution whose nearly 2,700 students come from most U.S. states and more than 45 countries. Acknowledging its beginning as a teacher's college, the University sustains excellence in teacher education while continuing to expand offerings in traditional as well as unique fields of study. Programs such as those available through the Delta Music Institute, the Commercial Aviation Department, and the Center for Interdisciplinary Geospatial Information highlight the University's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the students it serves with world-leading, industry-acclaimed programs. Situated in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, Delta State offers top-notch academic programs in business, arts, sciences, nursing, education, and more. DSU Athletics has won 14 national championships, 70 conference championships, and 37 regional titles.
Delta State University
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