Tag: Nicholls State University

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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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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Nicholls and FUEL Consortium Tackle Energy Research Head-On

Nicholls State University has emerged as a pivotal player in a groundbreaking venture that is set to redefine the landscape of energy research and innovation, as per this news release from the school. The institution is part of the prestigious consortium, Future Use of Energy in Louisiana (FUEL), that has been awarded an unprecedented grant of up to $160 million by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF), marking the largest grant ever funded by the foundation. This ten-year endeavor is a collaborative effort involving more than 50 public and private partners, including Nicholls, private energy companies, universities, community and technical colleges, and state agencies.

The NSF Engines grant, announced at a press conference in Washington, D.C., is a testament to the commitment towards supporting Louisiana’s energy industry, fostering job creation in the sector, addressing energy challenges through innovative solutions, and contributing to the training of a globally competitive energy workforce.

The focal point of this monumental grant is the energy transition and decarbonization of Louisiana’s industrial corridor. Louisiana, with its world-renowned expertise and solutions in the energy sector, boasts a workforce of over 250,000 individuals engaged in energy, chemical, and petrochemical industries. The state’s strategic geographic location, coupled with an extensive infrastructure of plants, refineries, and 50,000 miles of pipelines, positions it at the forefront of the energy transition. The NSF’s substantial investment aims to establish Louisiana as the premier global hub for research and development in the ever-expanding energy industry.

FUEL’s comprehensive approach encompasses collaboration between diverse entities, including educational institutions, energy companies, and government agencies. Together, they are committed to driving technological advancements and workforce development crucial for sustaining Louisiana’s energy sector. The consortium will address emerging challenges in various areas, such as carbon capture, transport, and storage; hydrogen technologies; utilization of carbon dioxide for producing low-carbon fuels and essential carbon-based products; water use and management; sustainable manufacturing; and policy development.

Louisiana Economic Development will further bolster the project by contributing an additional $67.5 million over the next decade. These funds will support higher education partners in building a world-class team to translate research into practical solutions, fostering broad economic impacts across the state.

Nicholls State University, positioned strategically at the intersection of coastal research and energy innovations, is well-poised to secure a portion of these grant dollars. The Coastal Data Refinery, powered by HEWMEN® at the Coastal Center, is set to become a leading research facility. This center will not only play a crucial role in combating coastal land loss but will also contribute to energy transition innovations. The collaboration with industry leaders and the innovative BALANCED Media | Technology HEWMEN® platform will create environmentally and economically beneficial opportunities for the Gulf Coast region.

Nicholls State University President Jay Clune emphasizes the institution’s unique position, stating, “Nicholls is at the crossroads where coastal research meets energy innovations. We understand clearly the importance of the balance between saving our coastline with the vital role the energy industry plays in our region.”

Leading the FUEL team is LSU’s Andrew Maas, the principal investigator on the project and associate vice president for research. Maas emphasizes the transformative nature of this effort, stating, “This culminating effort is trajectory-changing for energy transition research, commercialization, and workforce initiatives in Louisiana and all organizations involved.”

Dr. John Doucet, dean of the College of Sciences and Technology at Nicholls, leads the university’s team and expresses pride in Nicholls’ historical role in training students for the energy workforce. Doucet highlights the NSF investment as a mark of confidence in the collaborative potential of higher education, industry, and agencies in Louisiana to innovate solutions for energy challenges.

As the university celebrates Nicholls’ 75th anniversary in service to the Bayou Region and the Gulf Coast, they welcome a future where it continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the energy landscape.

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Nicholls State University’s Dive into Global Communications

Nicholls State University’s Department of Mass Communications is gearing up for an exciting new venture with the impending launch of the Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communications. This visionary program is poised to establish a robust global communications structure, connecting Nicholls not only with the local community but also extending its reach to the wider world. According to this article from Nicholls, The institute’s primary goal is to enrich the academic experience for faculty, staff, and students through international collaborations and real-world applications in the field of communications.

In a heartfelt initiative, Dr. Brian Matherne, a respected Houma physician, and his daughter Kellie Daniels, a lecturer in public relations and corporate communications at Newcastle University in England, have spearheaded the creation and funding of this groundbreaking institute. Named in honor of Nancy Sanderson Matherne, a UK native, longtime resident of Terrebonne Parish, and the first female member of the Terrebonne Parish School Board, the institute aims to celebrate Nancy’s profound impact on education in South Louisiana and her belief in the transformative power of travel to foster understanding and effective communication across diverse cultural contexts.

To facilitate the institute’s mission, Nicholls will select a group of students in its inaugural year to become institute recipients. These fortunate individuals will engage in an international campaign, working closely with an international client and embarking on a journey to the United Kingdom. There, they will have the unique opportunity to pitch their campaign to a panel of communications specialists and the project client, gaining invaluable real-world experience in the process.

Kellie Daniels, granddaughter of Nancy Sanderson Matherne and co-founder of the institute, expressed her excitement, saying, “We are thrilled to be able to open the door to international travel and global communications opportunities to the students at Nicholls State University and hope this link opens the door to further cultural programs and exchanges. Like Granny always used to say, ‘Travel really is the best education.’”

The institute’s collaboration extends beyond borders, with partnerships established with international universities, specifically Newcastle University in England. This collaboration aims to enhance the understanding and practice of international communications, broadening the horizons of Nicholls’ Mass Communication program. Dr. James Stewart,the head of the Mass Communication department at Nicholls State University, emphasized the significance of this international experience, stating, “Together, we can carve a path for world-class education to ensure our students, and as a result our communities, have a bright future.”

Funding for the Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communications will be derived from private donations, grants, and support from Nicholls State University. Those interested in investing in Nicholls can find more information at nichollsfoundation.org.

The Department of Mass Communication at Nicholls State University boasts a diverse range of concentration areas of study, state-of-the-art facilities, and opportunities for students to join publications or organizations. The department’s internship program is specifically designed to provide students with practical experience, complementing their classroom education. The dedicated faculty works tirelessly to develop students’ professional skills and values, aligning them with the current standards of the mass media industry.

In conclusion, the Nancy Sanderson Matherne Institute for Global Communications is not just a new chapter for Nicholls State University but a leap into a future where education transcends boundaries, and communication becomes a global endeavor. This initiative is set to shape the way students perceive and engage with the world, emphasizing the importance of cultural awareness and effective communication on a global scale.

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Rising Star Award Earned with Nicholls State’s Tech-Infused Approach to Student Success

In a resounding acknowledgement of its commitment to enhancing student success, Nicholls State University was recently honored with the prestigious Rising Star Award at EdSights’ PERSIST 2023 Awards. The ceremony, held during the culmination of the PERSIST Summit in the bustling city of New York, celebrated educational institutions that showcased exemplary utilization of EdSights’ innovative software, as per this article from the university.

The Rising Star Award, a testament to the university’s quick adaptation and dedication, was bestowed upon Nicholls for their profound understanding of EdSights’ software. This recognition is particularly noteworthy as it is reserved for newer partners who, despite being associated with EdSights for less than a year, exhibit promising workflow approaches, a deep comprehension of the product, outstanding outcomes, and an unwavering commitment to student success.

Renee Hicks, Nicholls’ Assistant Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness, Access, and Success, expressed the university’s gratitude for the acknowledgment, emphasizing the institution’s relentless focus on student support and retention. Hicks stated, “Nicholls has been focused on improving student success and retention. EdSights provided the perfect software to our toolkit to improve communication and relationships with students. Tillou helps students to engage with campus resources to ensure their success.”

The spotlight of Nicholls’ success story is the introduction of Tillou, an AI-driven SMS chatbot unveiled in January 2023. EdSights collaborated with Nicholls to create Tillou, tailoring it to address the specific needs identified through extensive research on student success and retention. Given Nicholls’ pre-existing commitment to fostering a culture centered on student support and retention, the integration of Tillou and EdSights seamlessly complemented the university’s existing initiatives.

Tillou, a behaviorally intelligent chatbot, serves as a proactive engagement tool, checking in with students at crucial intervals throughout the semester. Its primary objective is to support and engage students, offering assistance and guidance whenever necessary. Available 24/7 via text or through the Nicholls website, Tillou acts as a reliable resource for students, answering questions and providing valuable information about the university.

Renee Hicks further highlighted the strategic use of Tillou to enhance communication with students, enabling Nicholls’ faculty, staff, and administration to better understand and serve their student population. The intentional deployment of Tillou for both current undergraduate and prospective students has streamlined support services, enhancing the university’s persistence and retention efforts. Beyond the acknowledgment of individual success, the implementation of tools like Tillou aligns with broader institutional goals. The integration of technology-driven solutions not only facilitates communication but also strengthens the university’s overall persistence and retention strategies. The success of such initiatives is evident in the creation of a vibrant virtual community, fostering an avenue for student feedback and interaction.

In the broader context of educational institutions, the role of Institutional Research, Effectiveness, and Planning (IREP) becomes paramount. At Nicholls, this office plays a crucial role in supporting the university’s mission by providing reliable, actionable data and guidance to foster a culture of continuous improvement. The three major divisions within IREP – Institutional Research, Institutional Effectiveness, and Planning – work collaboratively to ensure the university’s holistic development.

Institutional Research conducts unbiased research, analysis, and reporting, employing a comprehensive understanding of complex university business processes. This information is pivotal in promoting data-informed decision-making for both internal and external entities. Simultaneously, Institutional Effectiveness is instrumental in facilitating the systematic improvement of educational programs, teaching methodologies, research initiatives, service, and administrative processes. Planning, as the third division, lends support to integrated planning at various levels of the university hierarchy. This approach ensures that data is strategically employed in organizational decision-making, contributing to the overall success and advancement of the institution.

In conclusion, Nicholls State University‘s recognition with EdSights’ Rising Star Award is not just a celebration of a singular achievement; it reflects the university’s commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of student experiences. The integration of innovative tools like Tillou, in conjunction with the comprehensive efforts of IREP, underscores the institution’s dedication to providing a supportive, engaging, and technologically advanced educational environment.

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