My Week

On Monday, Bossier Parish Community College Chancellor Dr. Rick Bateman, Jr. and I gathered to discuss methods of strengthening the relationship between BPCC and NSU. To reach a high student transfer success rate, NSU and BPCC will utilize evidence-based strategies to improve student outcomes on our respective campuses. This collaboration is crucial in fulfilling our mission of preparing lifelong learners with the necessary skill sets to succeed in the global economy.

On Thursday, the University of Louisiana System Board joined in New Orleans, and NSU’s head men’s basketball coach, Corey Gipson, was introduced to the board. Coach Gipson embodies an audacious vision for Demon Basketball. I’m looking forward to an exciting season and encourage all fans and supporters to join me in November at Prather Coliseum.

The ULS board approved naming an area in the A.A. Fredericks Fine Arts Building, Theatre & Dance Scene Shop, the “Phil Kidd Scene Shop” in honor of the late Phil Kidd, a former NSU faculty member. NSU’s Facilities Naming Committee unanimously approved the request to honor Professor Kidd, who passed last year after a long battle with cancer. Kidd retired in 2020 from his position as Assistant Professor and Director of Technical Theater after 18 years of service to NSU.

University Brief

The Beta Chi Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, an international honor society, inducted 50 nurses, nursing students, and faculty members in early April. The Beta Chi Chapter represents over 300 members in North-Central Louisiana. The mission of the organization is to develop nurse leaders who are connected and empowered to improve global healthcare.

I want to congratulate NSU Tennis Coach Jonas Brobeck for winning the coveted 2022 Southland Women’s Tennis Coach of the Year honor. The NSU Tennis team is undefeated in Southland Conference play and will compete against the No. 8 seed, Southeastern, on Friday, April 22 at 1 pm in New Orleans. Additionally, seven Lady Demons were named to the Southland Conference’s All-Conference teams. I wish the Lady Demons the best of luck competing for the tournament title.

Numerous undergraduate students and faculty represented our university at the 2022 Academic Summit, hosted by The University of Louisiana System. For over a decade, the Academic Summit showcases outstanding examples of experiential learning from nine universities in the UL System. The 2-day conference featured student exhibitions and performing and visual arts presentations, undergraduate research, and service-learning. NSU is a likely host for the Academic Summit in Spring 2023.

I personally commend the thriving students and dedicated faculty members for their contributions to academic excellence at Northwestern State University.