In a heartfelt tribute to the late Jeanne Picariello Murphy, the former First Lady of Nicholls State University, an endowed professorship within the Bridge to Independence program has been established. This initiative was made possible through the collective efforts of Dr. Bruce Murphy, former Nicholls President, Colleen Hunter, and several dedicated supporters referred to as “friends of Bridge,” who together contributed $80,000, according to this news release from Nicholls State University.

The Nicholls Foundation, which oversees such endowments, requires the accumulation of a certain amount of interest before a professorship can be formally awarded. This process can span several years. However, with an additional contribution from Dr. Murphy, the professorship is set to be awarded in the fall of 2024. The honor will go to the current faculty advisor of the Bridge to Independence program, housed within the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences.

The tenure of Jeanne Picariello Murphy as the First Lady of Nicholls was marked by her deep commitment to students with intellectual disabilities. She actively sought opportunities for these students to participate in ceramics courses and athletic events, among other activities. Jeanne collaborated closely with Dr. Mary Breaud, a faculty member in education, and Robin Bell, the former director of Campus Disability Services. Together, they were pivotal in the establishment of the Bridge to Independence program and in bringing the Special Olympics to the Nicholls campus.

The creation of the Bridge to Independence program was a labor of love for Jeanne. She regularly hosted meetings at the president’s residence, where a dedicated group of 8 to 10 individuals, including Colleen Hunter, convened over a span of two years. Their efforts focused on writing grants and completing the application for the Comprehensive Transition Program certification, under which the program currently operates. Even after leaving Nicholls, Jeanne remained deeply involved. She continued to research and send weekly emails to enhance opportunities for Bridgestudents and to foster long-distance connections. The original group, bonded by their shared mission, continues to support the program and remains in close contact.

Colleen Hunter’s son exemplifies the success of the Bridge to Independence program. He is a two-time graduate of Nicholls, having earned degrees in Interdisciplinary Studies and Geomatics with the program’s support. Colleen, reflecting on Jeanne’s impact, shared that the idea of creating an endowed professorship was always a cherished goal among the original group. After Jeanne’s passing, Colleen and her late husband Bill felt compelled to contribute to this initiative. Dr. Mary Breaud recounted that during a conversation with Colleen and Bill after Jeanne’s memorial mass, they expressed their desire to honor Jeanne’s memory through this endowment.

The Bridge to Independence program serves students with intellectual disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder. It offers two distinct pathways: a certificate pathway that focuses on independent living and workforce skills, and a support pathway for students pursuing a traditional college degree. Notably, the Nicholls Bridge to Independence program is the first of its kind in Louisiana to be certified by the U.S. Department of Education.

The Nicholls Foundation, an independent 501(c)3 corporation, plays a crucial role in supporting the mission of Nicholls State University. The foundation seeks gifts and grants, managing these funds and other assets to bolster the university through endowed chairs, professorships, scholarships, and other enhancement efforts. For those interested in contributing to Nicholls, more information is available at nichollsfoundation.org.

This endowed professorship is more than just a tribute; it is a testament to Jeanne Picariello Murphy’s enduring legacy and her unwavering dedication to creating inclusive opportunities for all students. Her passion and hard work have left an indelible mark on the Nicholls community and will continue to inspire future generations.

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