Tag: Bridge to Independence

Bridge to Independence & Nicholls Foundation Celebrates Donor Gifts for Inclusive Learning

Nicholls State University recently marked a milestone in inclusive education by hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil newly renovated facilities for its Bridge to Independence program, as per this news release from the University. The project was made possible through the generosity of Colleen Hunter and Jeannette Guillory Thomason, who each contributed $500,000 to the Nicholls Foundation. Both women dedicated their donations in honor of their late husbands, ensuring the program would continue to thrive and expand opportunities for students with unique learning needs.

The renovations created two state-of-the-art learning environments where participants spend much of their academic and social time: the William Dewitt Hunter Academic Excellence Program and the H. Allen Thomason Independent Learning Lab. These spaces were designed to foster collaboration, strengthen academic skills, and provide real-world experiences that prepare students for meaningful careers and independent living. By enhancing both the academic and life-skills sides of education, Nicholls has reaffirmed its commitment to providing holistic support for every student.

The H. Allen Thomason Independent Learning Lab was named in memory of Jeannette Thomason’s late husband, Hebert “Allen” Thomason. Connected directly to a classroom, this innovative space features a full kitchen, washer, dryer, and other resources that allow students to practice household responsibilities while also building job-readiness skills. Thomason explained that she felt called to support the program after learning about its mission. She emphasized that it was invaluable to have a program that not only focused on academics but also gave certificate students essential life skills to help them thrive as productive members of society.

In addition, the William Dewitt Hunter Academic Excellence Program now honors the legacy of William “Bill” Dewitt Hunter. His wife, Colleen, recognized the life-changing impact the Bridge to Independence program had on her son, a two-time Nicholls graduate in Interdisciplinary Studies and Geomatics. She explained that the program held a deep place in her family’s heart because of the growth and independence her son gained through his time at Nicholls. Her family was proud to support a program that had helped him prosper into adulthood and now looked forward to seeing it expand for future students.

Faculty leaders also expressed gratitude for the project. Dr. Mary Breaud, associate professor of education and one of the program’s co-founders, described the initiative’s mission as helping students achieve their greatest potential. She emphasized that the donations from the Hunter and Thomason families provided a welcoming learning environment where students could access the resources needed to succeed academically and personally.

Bridge to Independence holds a distinctive place in Louisiana higher education. It is the first dual-track program in the state to receive certification from the U.S. Department of Education. The program is specifically designed for students with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism.

Spectrum Disorder, allowing them to pursue a full college experience. While enrolled, participants build leadership, academic, and social skills that equip them for employment and self-sufficient living beyond graduation.

At Nicholls, Bridge to Independence students have access to a wide range of campus opportunities. They can attend traditional Nicholls classes, join student organizations, and take part in university events. The program offers two clear pathways: a certificate pathway focused on workforce preparation and independent living, and a support pathway that assists students who are accepted into the university while they pursue a traditional college degree. Trained peer mentors from the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences provide additional guidance, ensuring that Bridge students receive both academic and social support throughout their journey.

The renovated facilities and generous donations symbolize more than just new spaces—they represent a broader vision of inclusion, independence, and opportunity. Through Bridge to Independence, Nicholls is ensuring that students of all abilities can participate fully in college life, gain the skills to thrive in adulthood, and leave campus prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities.

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A Gift to Bridge to Independence Paves the Way for Academic Accessibility at Nicholls

The Bridge to Independence program at Nicholls State University has recently received a significant boost in support through a generous donation from Jeannette Guillory Thomason. Contributing $500,000 to the Nicholls Foundation,Thomason secured naming rights for the Independent Learning Lab, now officially known as the Bridge to Independence H. Allen Thomason Independent Learning Lab. This renaming honors her late husband, Hebert “Allen” Thomason, and marks a milestone in a $1 million project aimed at renovating the academic center and Independent Learning Lab facilities, as per this news release from Nicholls.

Jeannette Guillory Thomason expressed her admiration for the program, stating that its mission to equip students with life skills for independent living and workforce readiness deeply resonated with her. She saw the initiative as an invaluable effort to help students with intellectual disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) become productive and self-reliant members of society.

The Bridge to Independence program at Nicholls stands out as the first of its kind in Louisiana to receive certification from the U.S. Department of Education. Designed to offer students with intellectual disabilities or ASD a fully immersive college experience, the program goes beyond academics to foster leadership, social skills, and life competencies essential for their transition to independent living and future employment.

Students in the program benefit from attending regular classes at Nicholls State University, joining campus organizations, and participating in various events and activities. This inclusion allows them to experience college life alongside their peers while receiving the specialized support they need.

The program offers two distinct pathways to cater to the diverse needs of its students:

  • Certificate Pathway: This track focuses on developing workforce skills and preparing students for independent living. It is ideal for those seeking to enhance their life skills and gain practical experience for future employment.
  • Support Pathway: Tailored for students already accepted into Nicholls who are pursuing traditional college degrees, this pathway provides added support to ensure academic success while integrating these students into the broader university community.

Both pathways include assistance from peer mentors trained in the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences.These mentors play a pivotal role in guiding Bridge students through their coursework, enhancing their socialization skills, and fostering a sense of belonging on campus.

The renovation of the Independent Learning Lab aligns with the Nicholls Foundation’s broader mission of enhancing educational opportunities in the Bayou Region. As an independent 501(c)(3) corporation, the Nicholls Foundationactively supports the university by securing gifts and grants, managing these funds, and channeling them into endowments, scholarships, professorships, and other initiatives.

The foundation envisions a future where programs like Bridge to Independence inspire donors to invest in the region’s educational advancement. By supporting projects like the Learning Lab renovation, donors contribute to the development of resources that empower students to achieve their fullest potential.

Programs like Bridge to Independence underscore the transformative impact of inclusive education. By creating an environment where all students, regardless of their abilities, can thrive, these initiatives challenge traditional boundaries in education and demonstrate the importance of accessibility. Inclusive education benefits not only students with disabilities but also enriches the broader community by fostering empathy, understanding, and collaboration among peers.

Jeannette Guillory Thomason’s contribution is more than a financial gift; it is a testament to the power of community support in shaping lives. Her generosity will ensure that the Bridge to Independence program continues to provide its students with the tools and opportunities they need to succeed in life. As the program evolves, it stands as a beacon of hope and progress in the Bayou Region, setting a precedent for other institutions to follow.

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Honoring Jeanne Picariello Murphy: A Legacy of Inclusion at Nicholls State University

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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