As we begin a new year and welcome everyone back to campus, I hope you had the opportunity to rest, recharge, and enjoy time with those closest to you. The start of the spring semester brings renewed energy and focus. I am thankful for the professionalism, commitment, and care you bring to Northwestern State University and to the students we serve.

Open Line

On Monday, I joined Tedd Dumas on radio show, Open Line, to share updates on all things NSU. Open Line airs Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. on KWLA 103.1 and features live discussions of current issues, guest interviews, and listener participation. Tedd has generously provided Northwestern with a standing segment on the first Monday of every month, which allows us to regularly share news and progress with the region. Listeners can tune in on KWLV 107.1 FM in Many, KZBL 100.7 FM in Natchitoches, and KVCL 92.1 FM in Winnfield, or listen via live stream at https://bdcradio.com/openline/. I extend my sincere thanks to Tedd for his long standing and continued support of Northwestern State University.

Meeting with Whitney Lambright

On Wednesday, I had the pleasure of meeting with Ms. Whitney Lambright, Community Liaison for U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. We discussed several areas of mutual interest, including opportunities to further strengthen Northwestern’s role in workforce development, student success, and regional impact. I appreciate Whitney taking the time to visit campus and value the continued dialogue and collaboration with our state and federal partners.

Demons for Recovery Ribbon Cutting

Later on Wednesday, I participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Demons for Recovery Lounge, marking the culmination of months of coordination to create a dedicated space for peer support groups, meetings, quiet study, and connection. College Recovery and Prevention Programs (CRPP) support student health, wellness, and success, and Northwestern is one of only nine universities in Louisiana and approximately 180 nationwide to offer a CRPP. Demons for Recovery is housed within the Department of Psychology and Addiction Studies and provides critical support for students transitioning to college life. In addition to peer support, students have access to resources that improve mental health outcomes, including referrals to counselors and other professionals when needed.

Special thanks to CRPP Program Coordinator, Sarah Ebarb, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development, Dr. Neeru Deep, and the Demons for Recovery pilot team for their leadership and commitment. Members of the pilot team include Dr. Susan Barnett, Dr. Billie Myers, Interim Department Chair, Dr. Charles King, and Hillary Bennett, a recent graduate of the master’s program. The Demons for Recovery Lounge is located in Student Union Room 313. More information is available at www.nsula.edu/crpp.

College of Business Faculty Meeting

On Thursday, I joined our new Dean of the College of Business, Dr. Scott Wysong, for a faculty meeting with colleagues from across the college. The discussion focused on priorities for the spring semester, including enrollment, curriculum innovation, student engagement, and continued alignment with workforce and industry needs. We also discussed longer term goals related to program growth, experiential learning opportunities, and strengthening partnerships that enhance career readiness for our graduates. I appreciated the thoughtful dialogue and collaborative spirit demonstrated by the faculty and staff, and I am confident that under Dr. Wysong’s leadership, the college is well positioned for continued progress and impact.

Athletics Update

 Our Saturday afternoon basketball doubleheader in Prather Coliseum began with a resounding victory by our Lady Demons and ended with a thrilling comeback win completed by a buzzer-beating three-point shot from the Demons. The basket by Micah Thomas was ultimately chosen as Number 4 on the ESPN SportsCenter “Plays of the Day,” and was also featured on other ESPN platforms, a tribute to Micah and his teammates along with Davey Antilley, James Stanfield, and our students on the ESPN+ productions that bring such excellent exposure to our university through coverage of our athletics program.

Both teams rebounded for Saturday’s wins over Texas A&M-Corpus Christi after conference defeats earlier in the week. Our men are home again Monday night at 6:30 against UT-Rio Grande Valley.

Congratulations to the student-athletes from fall sports who were selected to the Academic All-Southland Conference teams in their sports recognizing academic and athletic accomplishment. In volleyball, spotlighted were Olivia Bush, Emmarie McFarland, Makenna Tryon, Samaya Wesson, and Julia Whitfield. Caleb Billiot and Danny Sears were the football players recognized. Cross country competitors earning the honors were John Klein and Lalaina Wood.

Looking Ahead

The spring semester begins with several opportunities to connect, celebrate, and engage with our broader Demon family. Demons on the Road launches Tuesday and provides a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with alumni and friends across the state while sharing updates on the momentum and direction of our university. I encourage you to help spread the word and join us when possible. Tickets and event details are available here.

We are also accepting nominations for the Long Purple Line, one of Northwestern’s most prestigious alumni honors. This recognition celebrates individuals whose lives and careers reflect exceptional achievement, service, and loyalty to their alma mater. If you know a deserving alumnus or alumna, I encourage you to submit a nomination by clicking here. For a full listing of lectures, performances, athletic events, and campus activities, please visit
our What’s Happening at NSU? page by clicking here.

As the semester gets underway, I want to thank you for the dedication and purpose you bring to your work each day. Your efforts shape the student experience and strengthen Northwestern’s mission in ways that matter deeply and endure well beyond the classroom. I am grateful to serve alongside you, and I look forward to what we will accomplish together in the months ahead.

Fork ‘Em Demons,

President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese
Northwestern State University