As the semester draws to a close, I want to thank each of you for the energy, professionalism, and commitment you continue to bring to Northwestern State University. The work accomplished in recent weeks highlights the strength of our academic programs, leadership, and people, and I am pleased to share several updates.
SACSCOC Annual Meeting
Last week, I traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, to join members of our accreditation team for the 2025 Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Annual Meeting. On Monday morning, I joined fellow university presidents for breakfast and an engaging session with SACSCOC President Dr. Stephen Pruitt. Throughout the day, I participated in sessions designed specifically for campus presidents, while our accreditation team focused on individual SACSCOC Principles.
The discussions and guidance shared throughout the meeting confirmed that our deliberate and methodical planning approach is on track as we prepare for our 2027 reaffirmation of accreditation. I am grateful to Frank Hall and to our accreditation team for their dedication and leadership, and I thank all faculty and staff for the important role they play every day in ensuring our continued accreditation and academic excellence.
Reatha Cox Elected International President of Order of Omega
I am pleased to share that Vice President of the Student Experience, Reatha Cox, was elected as International President of Order of Omega earlier this year. Order of Omega is the premier national honor society recognizing outstanding fraternity and sorority leaders. Following the SACSCOC Annual Meeting, Reatha traveled to Las Vegas to represent Order of Omega at the Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisors Annual Meeting.
Reatha brings decades of student affairs experience and long-standing involvement with the Order of Omega. Her commitment to values-based leadership and inclusive programming has helped shape a strong vision for the organization’s future. As International President, she will guide strategic initiatives and strengthen partnerships across campuses nationwide. Congratulations to Reatha on this well-deserved honor and for representing both the Order of Omega and Northwestern State University at the international level.
Radiography Program Accreditation
The College of Nursing and School of Allied Health is proud to announce that the Radiography Program at Northwestern State University of Louisiana has been awarded continuing accreditation for the maximum eight-year period by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology. This decision follows a comprehensive site visit conducted in April 2025 and reaffirms NSU’s commitment to excellence in radiologic science education.
The JRCERT is the only agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation for accrediting programs in radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance, and medical dosimetry. An eight-year award represents the highest level of continuing accreditation granted by the Committee.
This achievement reflects the dedication and expertise of our Radiography faculty, staff, clinical partners, and students. Their sustained commitment to academic rigor, professional excellence, and service to the healthcare needs of our region has positioned the program as a leader in allied health education. Congratulations to Dr. Tammy Curtis, Radiography Program Director, and to all faculty and partners who contributed to this outstanding outcome.
NSU Celebrates Graduates at JRTC and Fort Polk College Ceremony
Northwestern State University proudly celebrated five graduates during the Joint Readiness Training Center and Fort Polk College Graduation Ceremony held on Wednesday. This milestone reflects the determination and resilience of our military-affiliated students and underscores NSU’s ongoing commitment to supporting the educational goals of service members and their families.
Special thanks to Leesville and Fort Polk Campus Director Martha Koury and Military Liaison Michelle Stephens for their exceptional leadership, as well as to the Office of Economic Development for its continued efforts to strengthen NSU’s presence and partnerships across the region. Their collective work enhances the university’s ability to serve the Fort Polk community and deepens our engagement with military partners.
ULS Board of Supervisors Meeting
On Thursday, I attended the December meeting of the University of Louisiana Board of Supervisors held in Thibodeaux at Nicholls State University where all items related to Northwestern State University were considered by the Board and approved.
Personnel actions included approval of a contract renewal for Kevin Bostian as Vice President and Director of Athletics effective February 7, 2026; a contract renewal for Marcos Morelli as Head Women’s Tennis Coach effective September 16, 2025; and the appointment of Dr. Scott Wysong as Dean of the College of Business and Technology effective January 5, 2026. Congratulations to Kevin and Marcos on their renewals, and to Dr. Wysong on his appointment.
The Board also approved a 3% cost of living adjustment for all unclassified faculty and staff employed by the university on or before July 1, 2025, effective January 1, 2026. I was pleased to present this request on behalf of our campus. This marks the second cost of living adjustment during my presidency, following a 2.5% adjustment implemented in January 2025. Our faculty and staff continue to go above and beyond in service to our students and the university, and this adjustment is a meaningful recognition of their hard work, dedication, and commitment.
Athletics Update
The Demon men’s basketball team played the California Golden Bears down to the final minute Saturday in Berkeley, California, falling 79-70. The game featured 14 lead changes and nine ties before Cal, now 10-1 on the season, pulled away late. One non-conference game remains for Coach Rick Cabrera’s team this Saturday at 1 p.m. in Prather Coliseum against Southern New Orleans. Southland Conference play resumes December 29 at home against Lamar.
The Lady Demons return to action Monday night at McNeese, looking to start Southland Conference play 2-0 after a week away from competition. On Wednesday, Coach Anna Nimz’s team travels to Austin to face the Texas Longhorns before returning home to host Lamar next Sunday at 1 p.m. as conference play continues.
The Athletics Department has launched its “Leave Your Mark” campaign with a goal of raising $100,000 in donations by year end. For more information about this initiative, which supports our student-athletes and coaches who represent Northwestern State University in exemplary fashion, click here.
Looking Ahead
As we look ahead, I hope you will join us in celebrating our annual commencement ceremonies on Wednesday and Thursday of this week. We also have a number of other exciting events on the horizon. I encourage you to visit the What’s Happening at NSU? page for a full listing of upcoming activities.
Thank you again for all that you do to support our students and advance the mission of Northwestern State University.
Fork ‘Em Demons,
President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese
Northwestern State University