Tag: Nicholls

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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.

For more education-related information, click here.

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.

For more Louisiana-related articles, click here.