"It's a sign of the times," says Mr. Ash, now the student-government president. "We have to show that our school is moving toward the future."
It hasn't been easy. Costs tripled from the initial estimates after Hurricane Katrina drove up construction expenses. Mayo Brew, assistant to the chancellor for institutional advancement, says Southern University is seeking a major corporate sponsor.
Pulling out architectural renderings in his jaguar-themed office, Mr. Brew points at drawing of wooden logs where the next Lacumba can scratch herself. Last month, he says a university official flew to Costa Maya, Mexico, to photograph native pink and purple flowers. Architects hope to put those, or similar flowers, in the enclosure to add tropical ambience. "Our jaguar will be in good hands," he says.
- Associated Press
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