Tag: Nicholls

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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Nicholls Engineering Receives Key Backing from Educational Trust Fund

Nicholls State University recently received a generous contribution that promises to strengthen one of its most distinctive academic offerings, as per this news release from the University. The Contractor’s Educational Trust Fund (LA-CETF) donated $50,000 to support both scholarships and programming in the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering, specifically within its geomatics program. This program, long recognized for its innovation and workforce impact, has produced graduates who step directly into high-demand roles across Louisiana and beyond.

Kenn Naquin, secretary of LA-CETF, explained that the donation reflected the industry’s need to invest in its future workforce. He noted that the students trained at Nicholls State University would become tomorrow’s employees, and it was in the best interest of Louisiana contractors to ensure the university produced the most qualified graduates possible. Naquin described Nicholls students as the “product” of this educational process, and emphasized the fund’s desire to help the university create the best professionals in the field.

This $50,000 investment was not the trust’s first show of support for Nicholls. Over the years, the LA-CETF has contributed to a range of initiatives that bolstered both student opportunities and faculty development. These past donations included $100,000 toward the Endowed Geomatics Student Scholarship, $25,000 for the Jules Oreste Chustz Endowed Student Scholarship, and $50,000 in need-based scholarships designated for Nicholls students who faced hardship following Hurricane Ida. Additionally, funding has helped the School of Engineering recruit and retain talented faculty members, as well as establish endowed professorships that ensure long-term academic excellence.

Dr. Esra Tekdal Yilmaz, director of the School of Engineering and an associate professor of geomatics, expressed deep gratitude for the trust’s consistent backing. She explained that LA-CETF’s support was vital to sustaining the university’s nationally recognized geomatics program and preparing students to enter a field that required precision, technical knowledge, and adaptability. Dr. Yilmaz underscored that without such partnerships, the program could not continue its record of success in both education and job placement.

The geomatics program at Nicholls has built a reputation for excellence, boasting a 100% job placement rate for its graduates. Students are trained in the fundamentals of surveying and mapping but also gain expertise in cutting-edge technologies. Coursework and hands-on experiences expose them to Global Navigation Satellite Systems, Geographic Information Systems, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and advanced laser scanning techniques. This combination of traditional skills and modern innovation ensures graduates are highly competitive in industries ranging from construction and urban planning to environmental management.

The Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering also extends its impact through collaborative degree pathways. Nicholls students can pursue studies in civil and mechanical engineering through a partnership with the University of New Orleans. This arrangement allows students to complete UNO’s Bachelor of Science curriculum in fields such as mechanical or civil engineering while remaining on the Nicholls campus for most of their undergraduate studies. In their final year, they transition seamlessly to UNO to finish their degrees, creating a flexible and affordable route into the engineering profession.

The Contractor’s Educational Trust Fund itself plays a unique role in Louisiana’s educational and professional landscape. Established as a nonprofit, the fund provides resources to universities across the state that offer programs tied to construction and contracting. Its financing comes from violation fines collected by the Louisiana State Licensing Board for Contractors. These reinvested funds ensure that penalties for noncompliance are transformed into opportunities for students, scholarships, and academic advancement.

Taken together, the consistent partnership between LA-CETF and Nicholls demonstrates a forward-looking vision for Louisiana’s workforce. By channeling resources into student scholarships, faculty development, and program innovation, the fund is helping to guarantee that the next generation of geomatics and engineering professionals are well-prepared for the challenges ahead. In doing so, it underscores the importance of collaboration between higher education and industry to secure both academic excellence and economic growth.

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Nicholls Hosts Hybrid Environmental Summit with Global Partners

Nicholls State University recently took center stage in an international dialogue about environmental issues. On July 17, the university hosted “The Global Conversation,” a hybrid environmental summit that focuses on urgent ecological challenges, cultural preservation, and collaborative conservation, as per this news release from Nicholls. The free event was open to the public and was accessible both in person at Powell Hall Room 208 and virtually via Zoom, with a livestream provided by the United Nations. Scheduled to run from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., the summit invited participants from across the globe to contribute to a growing discourse about environmental responsibility.

Kellie Daniels, founder of Students Against Species Extinction and lecturer at Newcastle University, emphasized the importance of youth engagement in environmental activism. She noted that young people worldwide are stepping up to safeguard biodiversity and preserve their cultural heritage. Daniels added that by uniting students, scientists, and storytellers from various nations, the summit underscores the power of global collaboration. The issues discussed, she explained, are deeply interwoven and affect everyone, making it essential that we work together to create solutions.

The summit explored four central themes: global connections, effective communication strategies, conservation practices, and cultural exchange. A diverse slate of speakers from both Louisiana and the United Kingdom will lend their expertise, including Windell Curole, former director of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program; Dr. Gary LaFleur, professor and director of the Center for Bayou Studies at Nicholls; Laci Melancon, executive director of the Coastal Center at Nicholls; and Dr. Alisha Renfro, lead scientist for the Mississippi River Delta coalition with the National Wildlife Federation.

Beyond the summit itself, Nicholls welcomed the visiting Newcastle academics on an environmental road trip across south Louisiana. Their itinerary included visits to the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center, the unique Chauvin Sculpture Garden, the coastal village of Cocodrie, and the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium. This hands-on tour will give participants a deeper understanding of the Bayou Region’s environmental and cultural richness.

Dr. James Stewart, chair of the Nicholls Mass Communication Department, expressed pride in hosting the event. He credited ongoing partnerships with Newcastle and financial support from the Matherne family, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Restore the Mississippi River Delta initiative as essential to making the summit a reality. Stewart noted that these international collaborations have helped students at Nicholls expand their worldview and realize that the environmental challenges they face in Louisiana echo those experienced in communities around the globe.

Laci Melancon, who leads the Coastal Center at Nicholls, highlighted the local-to-global significance of the university’s environmental work. She explained that south Louisiana is on the frontlines of climate change, with rising sea levels, land erosion, and cultural displacement threatening the region. Melancon emphasized that through collaboration with local, state, federal, and international partners, Nicholls students and researchers are generating knowledge that not only strengthens the Louisiana coast but also contributes to the global conversation on sustainability and resilience.

Nicholls continues to grow as a leader in environmental research and coastal protection. The Coastal Center serves as a hub for collaborative scientific efforts, inviting researchers from agencies such as the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, the Water Institute of the Gulf, and various departments within Nicholls itself to work together on forward-thinking strategies to combat coastal degradation.

The success of this international event has been supported by the Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communication within the Mass Communication Department. Through the institute’s programming, Nicholls students are learning how environmental communication can bridge geographic and cultural divides, helping to protect ecosystems and heritage around the world.

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Give N Day Brought in Donors from Across 7 Countries and 40 States

Nicholls State University recently marked a major milestone with its 2025 Give N Day, setting a new record for the annual fundraising event. Now in its eighth year, Give-N-Day generated over $270,000 in just 24 hours, making it the most successful one to date, as per this news release from the school. A total of 1,750 donors contributed through 2,309 separate gifts, pushing the total raised across all eight years to over $1.4 million.

Organized by the Nicholls Foundation, Give-N-Day serves as a campus-wide initiative to raise funds for university programs, departments, athletics, and student organizations. This year, 117 different groups benefited from at least one donation. In fact, many donors opted to support multiple organizations—16% gave to more than one cause. Contributions poured in not only from across the United States (40 states in total), but also from donors representing seven countries, emphasizing the broad support for Nicholls’ mission and community.

Jeremy Becker, Executive Director of the Nicholls Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the outcome. He credited the remarkable results to the coordinated effort across campus. According to Becker, the success was a reflection of widespread involvement—from the participating groups who strategized and contacted supporters, to the university’s marketing team who helped spread the word far and wide.

On the Give N Day fundraising leaderboard, Colonel Athletic Association Soccer stood out as the highest earner, collecting an impressive $38,991. St. Thomas Aquinas Colonel Catholics followed with $15,950 in donations, whileColonel Athletic Association Track & Field/Cross Country brought in $15,520. Scholarships at Nicholls State Universityreceived $13,740, and the Accounting Program was close behind with $12,170. The Bridge to Independence program garnered $11,960 in support, while Colonel ESports raised $11,115. Colonel Athletic Association Beach Volleyball also had a strong showing with $10,226 raised.

In terms of the number of individual gifts, Colonel Soccer once again led the pack with a total of 300 donations. The Xi Theta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. secured 101 donors, making it the second-most supported organization by individual count. Colonel Athletic Association Indoor Volleyball followed with 98 donors, and Colonel Athletic Association Beach Volleyball wasn’t far behind with 89. Colonel ESports received 79 donations, Bridge to Independence had 73, Sigma Alpha Epsilon gathered support from 67 individuals, and the CROWN organization (Cultivating Respect, Opportunity, and Wellness through Networking) earned the support of 54 donors.

Launched in 2018, Give N Day was designed to open new fundraising opportunities for campus-based organizations that previously lacked the infrastructure to conduct their own campaigns. Since its inception, the event has allowed donors to designate funds directly to the group or program of their choosing, ensuring transparency and targeted support. Every dollar raised goes straight to the designated recipient with no administrative fees deducted, a feature that has helped boost donor confidence and participation year after year.

The Nicholls Foundation, which organizes the event, is an independent nonprofit entity classified as a 501(c)(3) organization. Its mission is to support Nicholls State University by securing financial gifts and grants, managing those resources responsibly, and enhancing the institution through scholarships, endowed faculty positions, and other academic advancements.

Given N Day reflects not only the generosity of Nicholls supporters but also the deep connection between the university and its extended community. From athletics to academics to student life, the funding generated will help ensure that these programs continue to grow, thrive, and meet student needs for years to come.

Events like Give-N-Day highlight a broader trend in higher education: participatory philanthropy. Rather than relying solely on large institutional donors, schools like Nicholls are creating avenues for grassroots support, empowering alumni, students, families, and faculty to give directly to the causes they care about most. This approach encourages a sense of ownership and community investment, both of which are vital for sustaining vibrant and responsive educational environments.

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Nicholls Empowers Students to Advocate for Louisiana’s Coastline in Coastal Summit

On March 12, 2025, Nicholls State University served as the host for the first-ever Louisiana’s Restoration Generation Coastal Summit. As per this news release from Nicholls, the event, held in the Cotillion Ballroom from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., was a collaboration between Restore the Mississippi River Delta and the Nicholls Mass Communication Department. Designed to explore critical issues related to conservation in Coastal Louisiana, the summit aimed to educate and inspire a new generation of advocates committed to preserving the state’s fragile coastal environment.

The summit provided attendees with a dynamic experience featuring presentations, panel discussions, vendor exhibits showcasing coastal and cultural resources, and live Cajun music to celebrate Louisiana’s rich heritage. A major highlight of the event was a keynote address delivered by Bren Haase, executive director of the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program. His presentation, titled “Restoration in the Barataria and Terrebonne Estuaries,” offered insight into ongoing conservation efforts and the challenges facing these vital ecosystems.

Panel discussions covered a range of topics relevant to students and professionals interested in coastal restoration. Discussions included “The People of Our Coast,” which highlighted personal stories of individuals impacted by coastal erosion, “Careers in Coastal Restoration,” which provided students with an overview of professional opportunities in the field, and “Louisiana’s Restoration Generation: Students Making an Impact,” which showcased how young advocates were already contributing to conservation efforts.

Emily Guidry Schatzel, senior communications manager for Restore the Mississippi River Delta, emphasized the importance of engaging students in conversations about Louisiana’s land loss crisis. She expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Nicholls for the summit, noting that it offered students a unique chance to learn about coastal erosion issues while exploring ways to contribute directly to restoration initiatives. She also stressed that by participating in these discussions, students were taking an active role in shaping the future of Louisiana’s coastline.

The event was open to the public and free of charge, encouraging participation from a broad audience. While registration was not required, those who pre-registered received additional benefits, including a conference bag, a discounted Louisiana-themed lunch in the Vernon F. Galliano Dining Hall, and entry into a raffle drawing. 

This summit served as an integral part of a service-learning initiative for students enrolled in courses such as Environmental Communication, Global Communication, and Public Relations. Louisiana’s Restoration Generation, the student-led movement at the heart of the summit, aimed to raise awareness among college students about coastal issues, encourage them to consider careers in the restoration industry, and inspire them to become advocates for conservation in their communities. This initiative operated under the Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communication, housed within the Nicholls Department of Mass Communication.

Nicki Boudreaux, an assistant professor of Mass Communication and director of the NSM Institute for Global Communication, underscored the importance of incorporating communication strategies into coastal advocacy. She emphasized that addressing environmental issues through effective communication was a priority for the department. She also viewed the summit as an opportunity to provide students with real-world experience while simultaneously making a meaningful impact on the community and state. She described the event as a chance to launch a movement that would empower students to take ownership of Louisiana’s coastal future.

Through engaging discussions, expert insights, and student-led initiatives, the inaugural Louisiana’s Restoration Generation Coastal Summit successfully fostered dialogue about the state’s environmental challenges while equipping students with the knowledge and resources to become active participants in restoration efforts. The event set the stage for continued advocacy, education, and collaboration in preserving Louisiana’s coastline for future generations.

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Nicholls MBA Program Ranks Among Top 50 with New Concentrations

In an effort to meet the ever-evolving demands of the business world, Nicholls State University’s Al Danos College of Business is significantly enhancing its Master of Business Administration (MBA) program. Beginning in the spring 2025 semester, the program will feature three new concentrations: Data Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management, as per this news release from Nicholls. Applications for these specialized tracks are now open, signaling an exciting new chapter for the university’s graduate education offerings.

The decision to introduce these concentrations stems from careful consultation with top industry leaders across the region. This collaboration ensures that the program aligns closely with the needs of the business community, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in a competitive and rapidly changing global economy. By focusing on high-demand sectors, the Al Danos College of Business aims to position its graduates as highly sought-after professionals.

Dr. Marilyn Macik-Frey, Dean of the Al Danos College of Business, emphasized the significance of these additions. She explained that the university recognizes a growing need for professionals with expertise in pivotal areas such as data analysis, strategic human resource leadership, and supply chain management. The newly-introduced concentrations are specifically tailored to address these demands, providing students with practical skills and specialized knowledge. “Our goal is to equip students with the expertise to excel in today’s job market,” Dr. Macik-Freynoted, highlighting the program’s commitment to preparing students for future opportunities by designing courses that reflect current business trends.

Each of the new concentrations offers a unique focus designed to prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen fields:

  1. Data Analytics: In this concentration, students will develop advanced skills in analyzing large data sets to derive actionable business insights. As data-driven decision-making becomes increasingly integral to organizational success, professionals trained in this area will be well-equipped to guide businesses toward informed strategies.
  2. Human Resource Management: This track emphasizes strategic leadership in human resources, focusing on talent management, organizational development, and workforce planning. Graduates will be prepared to lead HR initiatives that foster organizational growth and adapt to evolving workplace dynamics.
  3. Supply Chain Management: Students in this concentration will learn how to efficiently manage the flow of goods and services within the context of a globalized economy. This track addresses the critical need for professionals who can optimize supply chains and navigate complex logistical challenges.

These concentrations are not only a response to industry trends but also a reflection of the university’s broader mission. Nicholls State University is committed to providing an accessible, high-quality education that meets the needs of today’s students and anticipates the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. The addition of these concentrations underscores this commitment, offering students the tools they need to thrive in industries that are integral to the modern economy.

The MBA program at Nicholls has already received national recognition, ranking among America’s top 50 graduate programs, according to Money Magazine in February 2024. This accolade considered factors such as annual costs, typical debt burdens, employment rates, and graduate salaries. The introduction of these new concentrations is expected to further enhance the program’s reputation and appeal to prospective students.

As businesses continue to adapt to advancements in technology, economic shifts, and global challenges, the need for highly skilled professionals in specialized fields is more critical than ever. The new concentrations in Data Analytics, Human Resource Management, and Supply Chain Management are designed to ensure that Nicholls MBA graduates not only meet but exceed these expectations. By aligning academic offerings with real-world needs, Nicholls State University is cultivating the next generation of business leaders who are prepared to navigate and shape the future.

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