Tag: Nicholls State

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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How a Fishing Rodeo and Golf Are Supporting Higher Education in South Louisiana

The Morgan City Open Fishing Rodeo and Golf Scramble (MCOFR) recently made their annual contributions to Nicholls State University, continuing a tradition that has significantly benefited the university’s Petroleum Engineering Technology and Safety Management (PETSM) program and its Veterans Services. As per this news release from Nicholls, the organization generously donated $10,000 to the PETSM department and an additional $2,500 to support Nicholls Veterans Services, marking the twelfth year of donations to PETSM and the fourth year of contributions to veterans.

These donations have had a profound impact on the university, helping to enhance its educational facilities and technology. For the PETSM program, the funds have been instrumental in renovating and expanding classrooms, improving technological resources, and creating a state-of-the-art well-control simulation lab. These enhancements ensure that students are learning in an environment that mirrors the cutting-edge technology used in the energy industry today. The $2,500 contribution to Nicholls Veterans Services helps veterans whose educational benefits have expired. A panel will carefully select veterans for the program based on factors such as their academic performance, making sure those in need receive the necessary financial support.

The success and sustainability of MCOFR’s annual event can largely be attributed to the community’s long-standing support. Joey Cannata, vice president at Tanks-A-Lot and a key figure in the event, emphasized the importance of South Louisiana’s natural resources and the community spirit that fuels the rodeo’s growth. He explained that the fishing rodeo was founded with a vision to bring the community together in a fun, outdoor environment while also giving back to educational and charitable causes. Over the past decade, the rodeo has grown and expanded to include a golf tournament held at the Atchafalaya at Idlewild Golf Course in Patterson. Joey Cannata expressed pride in MCOFR’s growing contributions, stating that this year’s donation of $12,500 brings their total contribution to Nicholls State University to an impressive $111,500 since 2013. He also noted that the organization plans to introduce an offshore fishing division in 2025, further expanding the event’s scope and impact.

MCOFR was founded in 2013 by Tanks-A-Lot, a specialist in deepwater containers, with the primary goal of promoting community spirit in the local oil and gas industry while supporting organizations that encourage future growth in the community. The corporation seeks to provide a family-oriented environment where local residents can gather to enjoy the camaraderie and sportsmanship of both fishing and golf, creating a fun and engaging event that reflects the unique culture of Morgan City. Over the years, the rodeo has become a signature event in the region, attracting participants from across South Louisiana and beyond, helping to showcase the natural beauty of the area to visitors.

The 2024 edition of the Morgan City Open Fishing Rodeo took place in June, and once again, the proceeds were designated for educational and charitable causes within the local community. In addition to donating to Nicholls PETSM program, MCOFR also supported South Louisiana Community College and other charitable organizations within the tri-parish area, aiming to enrich the region through educational opportunities and community service. Over its history, MCOFR has donated more than $200,000 to these causes and remains committed to contributing even more in the years to come.

The partnership between MCOFR and Nicholls highlights the positive impact that community-driven events can have on higher education and local growth. Through events like the fishing rodeo and golf scramble, MCOFR not only provides a platform for outdoor recreation but also helps fund essential programs that benefit both the local economy and future generations of workers in the energy sector. As MCOFR looks to expand its events and contributions in the coming years, its influence on the tri-parish area is likely to grow even stronger.

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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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From Louisiana to Edinburgh: Nicholls State University’s Global Conservation Journey

In a grand ceremony held at the Biodiversity Ball at the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh, the esteemed Lady Amelia Windsor presented the prestigious Golden Gorilla Award. This accolade was bestowed upon the dedicated faculty and students from Nicholls State University’s Department of Mass Communication, as per this news releasefrom Nicholls State University. The award was a testament to their remarkable global conservation efforts and innovative projects undertaken by the newly established Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communication.

The award recognized the team’s inaugural project, aptly titled “A Tale of Two Habitats.” This project was an ambitious endeavor aimed at drawing parallels between global conservation efforts, thereby fostering a broader dialogue about conservation on a global scale. Through their work, the team introduced the Cross River Gorilla Project, a UK-based charity dedicated to the protection of the critically endangered Cross River Gorillas in Cameroon, to an audience in South Louisiana.

The faculty and students involved in this groundbreaking campaign had the opportunity to travel to the United Kingdom to showcase their work. Their participation at the Biodiversity Ball provided a unique platform to present their findings and initiatives. This gala event brought together a diverse group of conservationists, activists, academics, and university students, all united by a common goal of reviewing and discussing conservation research. Among the notable participants were Students Against Species Extinction (SASE), a volunteer group comprising students from three countries across two continents. Students from various disciplines, including law, marine biology, zoology, media, and mass communication, represented Newcastle University, The University of Edinburgh, and Nicholls State University at the gala.

The Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communication at Nicholls State University serves as a vital link connecting the university to the broader global community. By providing a robust communication structure, the institute aims to benefit not only the local community but also the faculty, staff, and students of Nicholls State University. The institute’s establishment was made possible through the generous contributions of Dr. Brian Matherne, a physician from Houma, and his daughter, Kellie Daniels, who is a lecturer in public relations and corporate communications at Newcastle University in England. The institute is named in honor of Dr. Matherne’s mother, Nancy Sanderson Matherne, a native of the United Kingdom, a long-time resident of Terrebonne Parish, and the first female member of the Terrebonne Parish School Board.

Kellie Daniels, one of the founders of SASE and a board member of the Cross River Gorilla Project (CRGP), also serves as a communication consultant for the charity. Her involvement has been instrumental in bridging the gap between the conservation efforts in the UK and the awareness and support from South Louisiana.

The Department of Mass Communication at Nicholls State University is dedicated to equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers in various mass media industries. The department’s mission is to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for professional roles requiring mass communication skills and to foster engaged and informed citizens. Faculty members are committed to helping students develop the professional competencies and ethical values essential for thriving in media-related fields. In addition to technical skills, students are encouraged to build a solid foundation of general knowledge and critical thinking abilities.

In summary, the recognition of Nicholls State University’s Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communication with the Golden Gorilla Award highlights the significant impact of their conservation initiatives. Through projects like “A Tale of Two Habitats” and partnerships with organizations like the Cross River Gorilla Project, the institute is making a meaningful contribution to global conservation efforts. The dedication and hard work of the faculty and students are a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering a culture of conservation and global awareness.

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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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Nicholls State University Secures Two Cybersecurity Grants from Louisiana Board of Regents

Nicholls State University recently secured two cybersecurity grants funded by the Louisiana Cybersecurity Grant initiative, as per this news release from Nicholls State University.  This initiative, developed by the Louisiana Board of Regents, aimed to establish the Maritime Cybersecurity program at Nicholls State University and the Louisiana Cyber Academy. These programs are set to bolster the university’s efforts in producing a highly-skilled cybersecurity workforce.

Nicholls President, Jay Clune, PhD, emphasized the importance of both cybersecurity grants and the development by noting that the creation of a proficient cybersecurity workforce was crucial to addressing the regional, state, and national needs. He stated that these grants empower Nicholls to stay at the forefront of technological innovation and workforce readiness.

With the aid of the grant, Nicholls State University planned to develop a new curriculum focused on Maritime Cybersecurity. This curriculum would culminate in an 18-credit-hour Certificate in Maritime Cybersecurity, which could be earned by current students as part of their baccalaureate studies or by graduates seeking to reskill or enhance their skills. The funding would be utilized to support new instructors, technology, and program management.

Nicholls serves as a pivotal hub for the maritime industry, offering services to significant coastal ports involved in shipbuilding, seafood production, coastal restoration, and offshore service industries. The university would also house a new Coastal Center, dedicated to providing scientific and engineering solutions to adapt, protect, and restore Louisiana’s coastline. Additionally, Nicholls had been designated as the site for the new Universities of Louisiana Maritime Academy, designed to offer numerous educational pathways tailored to the workforce needs of Louisiana’s coastal and maritime sectors.

The National Maritime Cybersecurity Plan’s publication underscored the necessity of preparing the nation’s maritime infrastructure for cybersecurity threats. Louisiana’s extensive network of bayous and canals, connecting inland facilities to the coast, makes it a key player in U.S. maritime commerce. Developing a cyber-qualified maritime workforce in Louisiana not only enhances security but also boosts the local economy.

Dr. John Doucet, Nicholls’ Dean of the College of Sciences and Technology and the author of the maritime cybersecurity program, highlighted the significance of these cybersecurity grants and this achievement. He stated that the grants represented a significant victory for both the region and the university as they continue to expand programs vital to the local workforce.

In addition to the Maritime Cybersecurity program, Nicholls State University would partner with the Louisiana Cyber Academy (LCA), a statewide initiative aimed at developing and delivering essential cybersecurity education. This initiative addresses the growing need for cybersecurity talent and aims to expand the state’s cybersecurity workforce. The grant would establish the LCA as a central hub to co-develop and launch six online cybersecurity courses. These courses would lead to a Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate aligned with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

These courses could be integrated into existing degree programs at these institutions, significantly benefiting those with limited or no cybersecurity courses. The pilot year would involve testing and refining the process with the goal of enrolling 50 students. In subsequent years, the LCA would be open to all public postsecondary institutions in Louisiana.

In 2023, Louisiana’s public postsecondary institutions produced 357 graduates with degrees or concentrations in cybersecurity. However, with 4,500 unfilled cybersecurity jobs in Louisiana, this partnership aims to produce more qualified candidates to meet the state’s growing needs.

The College of Sciences and Technology at Nicholls offers programs leading to associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, as well as undergraduate pre-professional programs preparing students for further education at other institutions. The college also provides general education coursework in the natural sciences for all university students. Faculty members are leaders in teaching, research, and service, engaging students in these activities to professionalize their skills and prepare them for life after graduation.

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