This week provided opportunities to hear from our students, strengthen community partnerships, and engage with leaders on priorities important to Northwestern State and our region. These conversations reinforce the value of working together and keeping student success at the center of our efforts.
Planning and Risk Assessment
On Monday, I met with Internal Auditor Bethany Edwards to discuss university planning and risk assessment. These conversations help us identify areas that require attention, evaluate potential challenges, and align our practices with the university’s goals. Taking a proactive approach allows us to address concerns early and make informed decisions that support our students, employees, and the institution’s long-term success. I appreciate Bethany’s thoughtful guidance and commitment to accountability and continuous improvement. Her work helps strengthen internal controls, promote responsible stewardship of university resources, and support effective operations across campus. As we advance our strategic priorities, thoughtful planning and ongoing risk assessment remain essential to maintaining the trust of those we serve.
Advancing Shared Community Priorities
On Wednesday morning, representatives from NSU participated in a panel discussion at the Natchitoches Economic Development Alliance’s quarterly Chamber Breakfast Club. The panel featured Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr., Parish President John Salter, NSU Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff Dr. Drake Owens, and Natchitoches Regional Medical Center CEO Kirk Soileau. Representatives from NSU’s Office of Economic Development and University Advancement also attended. The discussion focused on strengthening relationships with state elected officials, identifying shared funding priorities, and advocating for the needs of Natchitoches Parish. A central theme was the importance of collaboration and presenting a unified voice to advance community priorities. Panelists emphasized that each organization’s success contributes to the success of the entire community and that strong relationships with state leaders require ongoing communication and engagement. Northwestern State remains committed to working alongside local government, business, healthcare, and economic development partners to advance shared priorities and support continued growth throughout Natchitoches Parish.
Federal Issues Update with Senator John Kennedy
Later on Wednesday, I attended the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Federal Issues Update featuring U.S. Senator John Kennedy at the Randolph Riverfront Center in Alexandria. Senator Kennedy discussed infrastructure development, military investments, and other federal priorities affecting Louisiana. I appreciate Senator Kennedy’s continued support of federal funding initiatives, including NSU’s Innovation Park project, which will strengthen workforce development, entrepreneurship, and innovation across the region. Engagement with federal and regional leaders helps us advance university priorities and create opportunities for the communities we serve.
College of Business and Technology Town Hall
On Thursday, I joined Dr. Scott Wysong, dean of the College of Business and Technology, for a University Leadership Town Hall hosted by the School of Business Student Advisory and Outreach Board. Assistant Professor and Endowed Ragus Chair Heidy McWhorter Mongeon moderated the discussion. We covered a wide range of topics, including telling the NSU story, the value of a four-year degree, and the importance of using artificial intelligence responsibly. I shared concerns about how the misuse of AI can compromise integrity, an issue I have begun to see in the legal profession.
Our students asked thoughtful questions about expanding NSU’s alumni network beyond Louisiana, developing leadership skills earlier in their college careers, and preparing for challenges after graduation. My response to each began with the importance of a strong foundation. At Northwestern State, we help students develop the responsibility, ethical judgment, and organizational skills that support lasting success. With that foundation, there is no limit to what our students and alumni can accomplish. Following the town hall, Dr. Greg Handel, Dr. Wysong, Ms. Mongeon, Dr. Penrod, and I met with alumnus Troy Kiser to hear his insights on strategy and the university’s vision. Troy has worked with software development companies and now owns Kiser Consulting, a marketing consulting firm. I appreciate his willingness to share his experience and perspective with us.
NRMC Halloween Golf Tournament
On Friday, I enjoyed participating in the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center Halloween Golf Tournament at Northwestern Hills Golf Course. NRMC is a valued community partner, and I appreciate its commitment to the health and well-being of our region and its continued relationship with Northwestern State. I was pleased with the turnout and enjoyed visiting with those who came out to play. The course looks great, and I commend the staff for their hard work and continued efforts to improve the experience for golfers and visitors.
Small Business Opportunity Program
Northwestern State’s Office of Economic Development, Louisiana Central, the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, and Louisiana Economic Development recently concluded the five-week Small Business Opportunity Program workshop series. Business owners, nonprofit leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs participated in sessions covering bookkeeping, marketing, capital readiness, technology, and customer service. It was a special pleasure to welcome several NSU alumni as speakers who shared their expertise and experiences to help others succeed. We are proud to connect entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and relationships they need to grow and thrive in our region. Thank you to our staff, presenters, and partners for making this program possible.
Strategic Plan Progress
Our third complete quantitative assessment of Northwestern State’s Strategic Plan 2023–2028, Providing Education of Enduring Value, is now available. Titled Leading the Way, the 2025–2026 assessment documents our progress and helps guide continued planning and improvement. I extend special thanks to Director of Institutional Effectiveness Dr. Amy Craig for her leadership and diligent work in coordinating this assessment. I also appreciate the contributions of our faculty and staff in advancing the plan and assessing our results. I encourage students, employees, alumni, and community partners to review the assessment and consider how our shared efforts support Northwestern State’s future.
Athletics Update
Basketball season is here, with both teams in action Monday night. Alan Frey’s first game as the Lady Demons’ head coach tips off at 6:30 p.m. in Prather Coliseum against Ecclesia College, while Rick Cabrera begins his fourth season as our men’s coach with a game at Baylor. His Demons earned an impressive exhibition victory at North Texas last Monday night over a Mean Green team that has made five consecutive postseason appearances.
The Demon football team returns to Turpin Stadium for the next two Saturdays, looking to build on the competitive performances that brought them close to home victories against McNeese and Nicholls. Incarnate Word showed why it is poised for its fourth FCS playoff appearance in six seasons with a commanding win over NSU on Saturday afternoon in San Antonio. The Demons host UT Rio Grande Valley this Saturday at 1 p.m.
The Demon soccer team has secured a spot in the Southland Conference Tournament and concludes its regular season at home Thursday with an 11 a.m. start against UTRGV on “Kids Day.” A 4-1 loss at McNeese on Sunday ended NSU’s hopes of repeating as SLC regular-season champions.
Our volleyball team showed great tenacity in a five-set victory over Houston Christian on Thursday night in Prather Coliseum, completing a sweep of the season series. That result could prove important as the final four matches of the season determine which eight teams qualify for the Southland Conference Tournament later this month. On Saturday, league-leading UIW defeated the Demons 3-0. This week, Ben Kaszeta’s team travels to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi and UT Rio Grande Valley.
Eleven of our cross country runners recorded personal bests Friday morning at the Southland Conference Championships in Lake Charles. The program’s focus now turns to the indoor track and field season, which begins in January. The fall tennis season also concluded last week after Louisiana Tech canceled its tournament. The spring season, which emphasizes team competition, begins in January.
Tuesday is Election Day, and I encourage you to cast your ballot if you have not already voted early. It is also the final day to purchase a $100 entry in the Rhodes Properties & Development Demon Dream Home Giveaway drawing, which will be held Friday evening. Proceeds will provide vital support for our student-athletes.
As we begin November, thank you for the dedication and care you bring to our university each day. Your work helps our students build strong futures and strengthens Northwestern State’s contributions to the communities we serve. I look forward to continuing that work together in the weeks ahead.
Fork ‘Em Demons
President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese
Northwestern State University