Tag: Nicholls

Engineering Program Expands with UNO Partnership

Nicholls State University recently took a transformative step toward advancing its local engineering program by establishing the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering. This initiative, made possible by a generous $1 million donation from the family of Clifford Smith, honors the deep-rooted legacy of Clifford Smith, a respected civil engineer and land surveyor. In partnership with the University of New Orleans (UNO), this new school will enable students to obtain a comprehensive engineering degree, combining advanced academic instruction and hands-on industry experience, right in the Bayou Region, as per this news article from The Nicholls Worth.

The development of the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering aligns with Nicholls’ commitment to providing relevant, career-oriented education to its students and further enhances the region’s educational landscape. Through their partnership with UNO, Nicholls can offer students a streamlined pathway to earn an engineering degree without needing to relocate to other regions, addressing a longstanding challenge for aspiring engineers in the area.

At the core of Nicholls’ vision for the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering is its partnership with the University of New Orleans. This collaboration allows students at Nicholls to pursue an engineering degree through the established program offered by UNO. By bridging academic offerings between the two institutions, students in the Bayou Regiongain access to specialized engineering education that aligns with the current demands of the industry. This partnership empowers students to stay rooted in their community while achieving their professional goals, making it an appealing option for many who may have otherwise faced challenges in obtaining a comprehensive engineering education locally.

Alongside the academic benefits, the new school of engineering at Nicholls also opens doors for meaningful industry experience. Students pursuing an engineering degree will have access to internships with a leading regional engineering firm, allowing them to gain valuable, hands-on knowledge. The internships provide students with the skills and experience essential to their careers and offer local businesses the opportunity to contribute to the next generation of engineers who may eventually strengthen the regional workforce.

Clifford Smith’s family played a pivotal role in the development of the new school, motivated by their desire to honor his contributions to the field and to the Bayou community. Clifford’s son, Kenneth Smith, recounted the profound impact his father had on both the engineering industry and the local community, noting that his father’s career began through his work alongside his own father, T. Baker Smith, at their family business. T. Baker Smith founded the self-named firm in 1913, and following his passing in 1962, the company leadership was entrusted to Clifford. Under Clifford’s guidance, the firm became a mainstay in the Bayou Region’s engineering landscape, gaining a reputation for excellence and integrity.

According to Kenneth, Clifford’s legacy as a civil engineer and land surveyor “left an indelible mark on our profession and community.” Over the years, the T. Baker Smith firm has hired numerous Nicholls graduates, creating a strong bond between the institution and the firm. Kenneth highlighted this connection, expressing that the quality of Nicholls graduates has always been a testament to the value of Nicholls’ educational impact and alignment with industry standards.

Nicholls State University President Jay Clune expressed deep gratitude for the support of the Smith family, noting that this “generous gift” is a tribute not only to Clifford Smith but also to the Bayou Region as a whole. Clune emphasized that Clifford Smith’s name symbolizes “high-quality engineering and land surveying” and his contributions have extended beyond Nicholls to positively influence the entire region.

As the program evolves, Nicholls anticipates that the Wm. Clifford Smith School of Engineering will become a cornerstone of regional engineering excellence. By fostering local talent and maintaining strong connections with regional firms, the school will contribute meaningfully to the Bayou Region’s industry and economy, offering both an academic and economic boost to the local community.

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Nicholls University Achieves High Retention Rates and Growing Academic Programs

Nicholls State University has reported a notable rise in the number of first-generation college students for the fall 2024 semester. According to the 14th-day class statistics, 56.8% of this year’s incoming freshman class falls into the first-generation category, as per this news release from Nicholls. This demographic includes students whose parents or guardians did not obtain a bachelor’s degree. This figure marks a 3.1% increase from the previous academic year, reflecting Nicholls’ continued efforts to support and expand access to higher education.

Despite the increase in first-generation students, Nicholls’ overall enrollment has experienced a slight decline. The current student body totals 6,065, which is a decrease of 135 students from fall 2023. This drop is largely attributed to a reduction in dual enrollment students and a decrease in residents from Nicholls’ eight-parish service region. The student body comprises 5,539 undergraduates and 526 graduate students. Nonetheless, Nicholls continues to excel in student retention, with a strong 76.6% retention rate for full-time, bachelor-degree-seeking students year after year.

Renee Hicks, Assistant Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness, Access, and Success, emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting its students. She remarked that Nicholls’ dedicated efforts ensure that students are well-prepared to succeed both academically and professionally. Hicks highlighted that the increasing number of local students continuing their education at Nicholls is a clear indicator of the personalized and supportive environment fostered by the university’s faculty and staff. This support not only helps retain students but also contributes to the retention of graduates within the service region.

In terms of university housing, Nicholls has experienced a high occupancy rate, with 97% of the 1,399 available beds filled this semester. This high demand reflects the growing appeal of on-campus living among students.

Several academic departments at Nicholls have shown impressive growth compared to the previous year. The Management and Marketing departments have seen a 20.3% increase in enrollment, while the Applied Sciences department has surged by an impressive 49.2%. The Music department has also grown by 19.6%, and the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute has experienced an 11.1% increase. Additionally, the Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management program has grown by 10.6%. These increases underscore the expanding interest in these fields and the university’s successful efforts to enhance its academic offerings.

The most popular majors for the fall 2024 semester at Nicholls include Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Business Administration/Computer Information Systems, Biology, Teacher Education, and Psychology, Counseling, and Family Studies. This diverse array of popular fields highlights the broad range of academic interests among the student body and the university’s ability to cater to these needs effectively.

Ahead of the fall semester, Nicholls hosted its third annual First-Generation Experience event, sponsored by OnPath Federal Credit Union. This event was designed to equip first-generation students with essential tools for their college journey. The conference-style event offered a variety of informational sessions, covering topics such as effective study strategies, course preparation, time management, financial aid, and campus involvement. The aim of the event was to provide first-generation students with the resources and confidence needed to navigate their college experience successfully. The impact of a supportive college experience on first-generation students can significantly influence their future career trajectories and personal achievements.

Nicholls State University’s efforts to support first-generation students and enhance academic programs reflect its commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive educational environment. The increased enrollment of first-generation students and the growth in various academic departments are indicative of the university’s ongoing success and adaptability in meeting the evolving needs of its student population.

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Celebrating Excellence at Nicholls Fall Convocation

Nicholls State University kicked off the fall 2024 semester by recognizing the outstanding contributions of its faculty and staff during the University Convocation held on Wednesday, August 14, according to this news release from Nicholls State University. . The event, which marks the beginning of the academic year, provided an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the past year and look forward to the future.

The convocation began with opening remarks by Vice Provost Dr. Todd Keller and President Jay Clune, PhD. Both leaders extended a warm welcome to the faculty as they returned to campus for the new semester. Dr. Clune’s State of the University address served as a central highlight of the event, where he took the opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of the faculty and staff over the past year. He also discussed the current and upcoming upgrades to the campus, which aim to enhance the learning environment for students and faculty alike.

During his address, Dr. Clune acknowledged the challenges the university faced, particularly in terms of budgetary constraints, but he emphasized that despite these difficulties, the university managed to achieve remarkable success. He attributed these achievements to the dedication and talent of the university’s faculty and staff, noting their commitment to the students and the region they serve. This acknowledgment served as a reminder of the crucial role that educators and administrators play in the success of the institution.

One of the key moments of the convocation was the presentation of the Alcee Fortier Distinguished Service Professor Award to Jean Donegan, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. This prestigious award is presented to faculty members who have demonstrated excellence in instruction, a strong commitment to academics, and significant professional accomplishments. The award is a testament to Donegan’s dedication to her students and her field. Recipients of this award receive an annual professional stipend of $2,500, as well as additional funds for travel and research assistance, enabling them to continue their work and contribute further to their academic disciplines. Additional awards were presented to faculty members who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields.

The university also recognized several faculty members with the Academic Affairs Awards for Teaching Excellence, made possible through the continued generosity of Regions Bank. Recipients of these awards are chosen based on their consistent performance over five years, including outstanding student and administrative evaluations. The 2024 awardees included Dr. Alexis Fabrizio-Sumpter from the College of Liberal Arts, Kaitlin Gravois from the Al Danos College of Business Administration, Dr. Himanshu Raje from the College of Sciences and Technology, Dr. Cynthia Vavasseur from the College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, and Denise LeBlanc from the Thibodaux Regional Health System School of Nursing. Each of these educators received a one-time stipend of $500, recognizing their commitment to excellence in teaching.

Endowed professorships were also awarded during the convocation, providing financial support to faculty members for their research and academic endeavors. Among the recipients were Eugene Gouaux, who was awarded the Harold J. Callais Endowed Professorship in Economic Development, and Dr. Mary Breaud, who received the Jeanne Picariello Murphy Endowed Professorship. These endowed positions are vital for the continued academic growth of the university, enabling faculty to pursue innovative research and contribute to their fields.

The Fall 2024 Convocation at Nicholls State University not only marked the beginning of a new academic year but also served as a celebration of the achievements of its faculty and staff. Through these awards and recognitions, the university highlighted the importance of excellence in teaching, leadership, and service, ensuring that its community continues to thrive.

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Partnerships in Progress: Thibodaux Regional and Nicholls State’s Nursing Annex

Nicholls State University recently marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new Nursing Annex Building, which will serve as the future home of the Thibodaux Regional Health System School of Nursing, according to this article from Houma Today. The event took place in the Ayo Hall Parking Lot off Swanner Drive, drawing the attention and participation of various dignitaries. Among the notable speakers were Louisiana’s Commissioner of Higher Education, Dr. Kim Hunter Reed; CEO of Thibodaux Regional Health System, Greg Stock; State Senator Robert Allain; Nicholls’ Dean of Nursing, Dr. Raquel Engolio; and the university’s President, Dr. Jay Clune.

The groundbreaking ceremony highlighted the community’s collaborative spirit and commitment to both education and healthcare with this new nursing annex. Dr. Kim Hunter Reed emphasized the importance of these pillars, noting that the community actively engages in finding solutions rather than waiting for external intervention. She remarked, “This community is about collaboration. This community doesn’t say, ‘We hope someone will solve the problem.’ This community says, ‘What can I do to be a part of the solution?’ And that is a special thing. The two pillars of a strong community are education and access to strong healthcare, and those are the pillars that the Bayou Region will continue to grow and prosper.”

Greg Stock, CEO of Thibodaux Regional Health System, underscored the ultimate goal of the new facility: improving patient care. He reflected on the collaboration between the university and the health system, noting the potential impact on future healthcare professionals. Stock stated, “Our purpose ultimately is the patient. All the great people involved in educating nurses and building this facility and the process along the way all lead to the end result of great patient care. When we all met about this partnership, and I saw the interaction between all of our nurses, I knew we were on the verge of making something special.”

The construction of the new 33,000-square-foot nursing annex facility will be funded through a combination of state-appropriated funds and contributions from the Thibodaux Regional Health System. The state has allocated $20 million for this project, with an additional $7.1 million set aside for the renovation of the existing Betsy C. Ayo Hall. The new building’s first floor will feature two auditoriums and two large classrooms, while the second floor will be dedicated to nursing skills labs and a state-of-the-art simulation space. This advanced technology will enable students to practice in realistic healthcare scenarios, better preparing them for their professional roles.

Dr. Raquel Engolio expressed excitement about the future opportunities this facility would provide for nursing students. She highlighted the importance of equipping students with both the skills and confidence necessary for a successful career in nursing. She stated, “Within these future walls, we will continue to empower our students with skills and confidence – producing an even more practice-ready nursing workforce. This investment helps us increase the pipeline of registered nurses in our area, leading to a healthy, strong Louisiana coastal community for generations to come.”

The long-standing partnership between Thibodaux Regional Health System and Nicholls State University has been instrumental in providing nursing students with essential clinical experience. The health system has offered clinical space for students, enabling them to gain practical experience throughout their education. Additionally, many graduates have found employment opportunities within Thibodaux Regional, further solidifying the relationship between the two institutions.

The development of this new facility represents a significant investment in the future of nursing education and healthcare in the region. It underscores the importance of collaboration between educational institutions and healthcare providers in preparing the next generation of nurses to meet the challenges of an ever-changing healthcare landscape.

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Nicholls and LSU Health New Orleans Unite for Innovative Culinary Medicine Course

Nicholls State University and Louisiana State University Health Science Center – New Orleans (LSUHSC-NO) School of Medicine have joined forces once again to present the annual Culinary Medicine Program at the esteemed Chef John Folse Culinary Institute. Marking its sixth consecutive year, this program took place from July 1-12, sponsored by the Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) and Thibodaux Regional Health System, as per this news release from Nicholls.

This unique educational collaboration attracted eleven third-year medical students from LSUHSC-NO, who opted to enhance their medical education by enrolling in this culinary medicine course. The program was conducted by experienced instructors from Nicholls’ Chef John Folse Culinary Institute and its didactic program in dietetics. Over the course of two weeks, these future physicians delved into evidence-based nutrition and honed their culinary skills, aiming to integrate this knowledge into their future medical practices.

Each day, the students started with a morning lecture that covered an array of topics emphasizing the crucial role of food in both preventing and managing diseases. Following the lectures, the students transitioned into practical application, preparing various recipes that reinforced the lecture themes. After the hands-on cooking sessions, students and instructors shared the prepared meals, engaging in discussions about the taste and health benefits of the dishes. This comprehensive approach aimed to equip students with the foundational knowledge necessary to treat and educate their future patients effectively.

The curriculum of this year’s program encompassed a broad spectrum of topics. Students explored plant-based diets, proteins, and altered texture diets. They delved into the significance of dietary fats in health, the inflammatory cascade, and cardiovascular health, among other subjects. Each topic was chosen to provide a holistic understanding of how diet can be utilized as a powerful tool in medical practice.

Established in 1929, Thibodaux Regional Health System has consistently demonstrated a commitment to providing top-notch medical services to its patients and the community. As a leader in regional healthcare, Thibodaux Regionaloffers an extensive range of inpatient and outpatient services, including comprehensive cardiovascular care and heart surgery, cancer care, neurosurgery, orthopedics and sports medicine, women’s services, obstetrics, and both inpatient and outpatient physical rehabilitation. The health system also boasts a state-of-the-art Wellness Center. Thibodaux Regional’s dedication to excellence is evident in its history, mission, and numerous achievements.

Culinary medicine represents an innovative approach to healthcare that merges the art of cooking with the science of medicine. It emphasizes the importance of nutrition in disease prevention and management, offering practical skills that medical professionals can pass on to their patients. By understanding the direct impact of diet on health, physicians can provide more comprehensive care, addressing both the medical and lifestyle aspects of their patients’ well-being.

The Culinary Medicine Program at Nicholls State University stands as a testament to the growing recognition of the role that diet plays in health. This partnership not only enriches the medical education of future doctors but also promotes a holistic approach to healthcare that can lead to better patient outcomes. As medical students learn to integrate culinary skills with medical knowledge, they are better prepared to advocate for and implement dietary changes that can significantly improve their patients’ quality of life.

The collaboration between Nicholls State University and LSUHSC-NO for the Culinary Medicine Program exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to medical education. By bridging the gap between culinary arts and medical science, this program equips future physicians with the tools necessary to promote healthier lifestyles through diet. Supported by prominent institutions like the Cardiovascular Institute of the South and Thibodaux Regional Health System, the program underscores the vital connection between nutrition and health, paving the way for a new generation of doctors who are as skilled in the kitchen as they are in the clinic.

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Bayou Region Incubator Empowering Entrepreneurs

The Atchafalaya Intracoastal Coalition (AIC) demonstrated its commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship by donating $6,300 to the Nicholls State University Bayou Region Incubator (BRI). This generous donation facilitated the sponsorship of a St. Mary Parish business with a small office space and a one-year membership, underscoring the coalition’s dedication to economic development within the region, as per this news release from Nicholls State University.

Lisa Kliebert, the Director of the Bayou Region Incubator, expressed profound gratitude for the donation, emphasizing the importance of the relationship it established. She noted that the AIC’s contribution had been instrumental in supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses within St. Mary Parish. Kliebert conveyed optimism about the future, anticipating not only the benefits of the sponsorship but also a continued partnership between the AIC and St. Mary Parish. She highlighted the potential for collaborative efforts to foster small business growth and economic development throughout the Bayou Region.

The Bayou Region Incubator was established with a clear mission: to provide comprehensive support to existing and aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses. This support encompasses training, services, mentorship, networking, and other essential resources. The incubator’s objectives are multifaceted, with a strong focus on enhancing resiliency in a post-COVID-19 environment. By diversifying the local economy, the incubator aims to equip businesses with strategies to adapt and respond to new economic trends and unforeseen challenges. More information about their initiatives can be found on their website, bayouregionincubator.org.

The Atchafalaya Intracoastal Coalition, a nonprofit organization, strives to promote economic development within St. Mary Parish. Their mission is centered on the advancement of initiatives that contribute to the civic betterment of the community. By supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth, the AIC plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for residents in and around St. Mary Parish.

The Bayou Region Incubator’s mission aligns closely with that of the AIC. It aims to motivate, grow, and support a diverse, sustainable, and inclusive economy in South Louisiana’s Bayou Region. This mission is pursued through intentional investments in entrepreneurship and small business development. The BRI places a particular emphasis on developing industries that address Louisiana’s coastal crisis and on strengthening economic vitality in the wake of the adverse effects of COVID-19 and ongoing environmental threats.

At the core of the Bayou Region Incubator’s efforts is the provision of training, services, mentorship, networking, and other forms of support to entrepreneurs and small businesses. This support is particularly focused on those operating within the Bayou Region. The incubator aims to foster new business development, thereby impacting economic development in response to, and proactively against, the pandemic and other economic risks. The BRI remains committed to addressing the ever-evolving threats to the coast, community health, and economy through continuous adaptation and development.

The vision of the Bayou Region Incubator is to economically fortify and contribute to an inclusive community by operating at the forefront of innovation in Louisiana’s coastal and water crisis. This vision entails creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive, jobs are generated, and businesses flourish. By addressing the unique challenges posed by coastal erosion and climate change, the incubator seeks to develop sustainable business practices that not only benefit the local economy but also protect the region’s natural resources. Through strategic initiatives and targeted support, the BRI aims to be a catalyst for economic transformation, promoting resilience and adaptability in the face of ongoing environmental and economic threats.

The ultimate goal is to build a vibrant and inclusive economy where all community members have the opportunity to prosper, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably across the region. Through these concerted efforts, the Bayou Region Incubator aspires to be a cornerstone of economic strength and inclusivity, driving sustainable development and long-term prosperity for South Louisiana.

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