University of Louisiana Monroe, University of Puerto Rico sign agreement

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (KNOE) – The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) and the University of Puerto Rico (UPR) signed a memorandum of understanding agreement Friday in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The goal of the agreement is to establish a general framework for collaboration between the two universities with the intent of supporting academic cooperation, research engagement, student and faculty exchange, and other joint activities that advance the missions of both universities, a ULM news release said.

“We are honored to partner with the University of Puerto Rico for the advancement of both of our universities. Agreements like this broaden the cultural horizons for all of our students, faculty, and staff, while creating new learning and research opportunities. Thank you to Dr. Conde and her team for joining us in this collaborative vision. This is the beginning of a wonderful partnership,” said ULM President Dr. Carrie L. Castille.

The agreement comes after months of planning and cooperation between the universities, which began when President Castille and other ULM representatives visited Puerto Rico in November 2025 to explore opportunities for future partnerships, ULM said.

The two universities will explore opportunities to enhance academic programs through shared expertise, joint curriculum development, and exchange of academic resources. The agreement also lays the groundwork for students to participate in study-away programs and experiential learning opportunities, while faculty and staff may participate in collaborative research, teaching, and training, the news release said. Under the agreement, both schools may collaborate in pursuing funding opportunities from federal and state agencies, philanthropic organizations, and private foundations, with funding priorities focused on workforce development, cultural exchange, and community engagement. 

“This agreement reflects our shared commitment to expanding opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers while strengthening the ties between Puerto Rico and Louisiana,” said UPR President Dr. Zayira Jordán Conde. “The University of Puerto Rico is proud to partner with ULM to foster innovation, promote cultural exchange, and develop initiatives that will positively impact our communities. We look forward to building a lasting relationship founded on academic excellence, collaboration, and a common vision for preparing future generations to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.”  

Castille said both universities can learn a lot from each other. She noted Puerto Rico is home to eight of the ten major pharmaceutical manufacturers and ULM has Louisiana’s only publicly funded college of pharmacy. She said ULM’s forthcoming Bachelor of Science in Disaster Management program can potentially aid Puerto Rico in disaster response, readiness and recovery, since the island is vulnerable to hurricanes.

“This moment also reflects something larger—the importance of partnership. Institutions like the University of Puerto Rico and the University of Louisiana Monroe are united in a shared mission: to create opportunity, strengthen communities and prepare students to thrive in a complex and interconnected world. When we work together, we multiply that impact,” said Castille. “Just like Northeast Louisiana, Puerto Rico is working to build the human and physical infrastructure that strengthens its communities. After spending two days on the island and returning to Louisiana, I’m reminded of what a gift this region is and how our partnerships expand opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to learn with and from different culture.”

ULM and Louisiana State University at Alexandra signed a similar agreement in May.