Southern University Suspends Club Recruitment on Baton Rouge Campus After Student’s Tragic Death
Southern University has indefinitely suspended all club recruitment activities, including Greek life, following the off-campus death of a student on Thursday.
A university spokesperson confirmed that the pause on the Baton Rouge campus was in response to the passing of Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old junior from Kenner studying mechanical engineering. His mother is a student at Southern University’s New Orleans campus.
Wilson’s father, Corey Wilson, served as a deputy with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office for 35 years and also worked on security details for Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans.
Caleb Wilson was found unresponsive at North Sherwood Forest Park in Baton Rouge and was transported to a hospital by individuals who discovered him. Baton Rouge police were later called to the hospital after authorities deemed his death “suspicious in nature.”
University officials believe Wilson’s death may be linked to an off-campus incident involving a student organization, though they have not identified which organization may have been involved. In response, Southern University leadership has suspended all recruitment activities for fraternities, sororities, and student clubs on campus.
Wilson, affectionately known as "Cheese" by his bandmates, played the trumpet for Southern University’s renowned marching band, the Human Jukebox.
"He had a lot of potential," said Lonnie Robinson, a senior at Southern and leader of the band's trumpet section. Robinson, who met Wilson at a summer band camp while Wilson was a student at Warren Easton Charter High School in New Orleans, recalled his friend’s infectious smile and sense of humor.
Wilson began playing the trumpet in middle school as part of The Roots of Music, an afterschool youth music program in New Orleans.
"He was a great kid with a bright future, and I loved him dearly," said Derek Tabb, a member of the Rebirth Brass Band and co-founder of The Roots of Music. "I will miss his smile and our conversations."
Southern University's Director of Student Leadership and Engagement, Winton R. Anderson, issued a letter to chapter advisors and student organization presidents outlining the suspension. The directive halts initiation processes, inductions of new members, and rushes or interest meetings. However, current members are allowed to continue existing activities.
New Orleans Saints owner Gayle Benson expressed her condolences, stating, "Today, we are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Caleb Wilson, a very bright, young Southern University student. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and the entire Southern University community during this incredibly difficult time."
The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office also extended sympathies to the Wilson family. Corey Wilson, who retired last year as a sergeant, now serves as a part-time deputy with the department.
Baton Rouge police continue to investigate Caleb Wilson’s death.
"This tragic loss has hit very close to my heart, as his father, Sgt. Corey Wilson, has worked with our team for many years," Benson said. "I have a deep and personal connection to his family. We mourn with him today over this senseless passing, and our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this heartbreaking loss."