Faculty and Staff,

As we approach mid-semester, I’m excited to share some of the impactful events and initiatives happening across our campuses and in the broader community. From strengthening our relationships with nearby high schools to celebrating the talent of our students, it’s been another inspiring week filled with moments that highlight the spirit and strength of Northwestern.

Wind Symphony
On Tuesday evening, I had the distinct honor of serving as a guest conductor for the NSU Wind Symphony during their fall concert. Under the direction of Dr. Anthony Pursell, the concert showcased an impressive program that blended themes of patriotism, conflict, and beauty. The performances celebrated the resilience of the human spirit, reflecting our shared love for country, nature, and the hard work it takes to protect and cherish them.

Dr. Pursell’s leadership and passion for music were evident throughout the evening. I was especially proud to join him and the talented students of the Wind Symphony for a performance of “The Stars and Stripes Forever.” This particular piece has a special place in my heart, because it recalls my time as a drum major in high school. It was a true honor to lead these gifted musicians in this patriotic march.

Cooking for a Cause
On Wednesday I attended the “Cooking for a Cause” event for September Hunger Action Month. Northwestern and Centenary chefs went head-to-head to raise awareness of food insecurity on college campuses. Congratulations to our very own Chef Jimier Anderson for winning the inaugural competition. Proceeds from the event will benefit Sodexo’s Swipe out Hunger program and the NSU Food Pantry.

First-Year Scholars’ Reception
On Wednesday evening, Martha and I welcomed our first-year Louisiana Scholars’ College students to the president’s residence for a reception. This group includes some of our brightest and most motivated students. It is essential to recognize their hard work early in their academic careers. These gifted students are future leaders in the fields of law, medicine, engineering, education, and more. By fostering a strong sense of belonging and academic excellence, we lay the foundation for their success during their time at Northwestern and beyond.

Fall Scholars’ Day, a preview day for high school students interested in learning more about LSC, will take place this Saturday, Oct. 12.  The open house will welcome all students interested in an honors education. Information on the Louisiana Scholars’ College and registration for Fall Scholars’ Day is available at https://www.nsula.edu/scholars/.

High School Visits
This past week, I had the pleasure of visiting several high schools in DeSoto Parish, including North DeSoto, Logansport, Mansfield, and Stanley. These visits provided a critical opportunity to connect with prospective students, to introduce them to the wide array of academic and extracurricular opportunities at Northwestern State University, and to emphasize the value of higher education. Strengthening our relationships with local schools ensures that students understand they have a supportive community ready to help them achieve their educational goals close to home.

Triad Luncheon
On Friday I joined State Representative Gabe Firment and Grant Parish School Board Superintendent Dr. Erin Stokes for the Triad Senior Citizens Luncheon in Colfax. This annual event is a collaborative initiative that brings together senior citizens, law enforcement and the community. I welcomed over 700 senior citizens, their children, and their grandchildren and provided an update on the amazing work taking place at Northwestern.

Athletics Update
On Saturday, our football team renewed its historic rivalry with Stephen F. Austin State University. This took on special significance with the introduction of a redesigned trophy, which replaces the retired “Chief Caddo” statue, and maintains the original 7-foot-6, 320-pound dimensions. It is crowned with symbols of the teams’ shared competitive spirit—a pitchfork on one end and an axe on the other—with the scores from past games etched along its length. While the trophy’s design changed, the legacy and tradition of this storied rivalry remains and will strengthen the ties between our schools for years to come.

With indomitable spirit, our Demons play at home Saturday afternoon at 2. It will be a showcase for our university as a focal point of N-Side View Day and Fall Scholars’ Day. I hope you and yours join in the pregame tailgating and support our Spirit of Northwestern Marching Band, the spirit groups and the valiant football student-athletes, and please be sure to greet our visiting prospective students and their families.

Soccer finally plays at home this Friday night and Sunday afternoon. The Demons are playing great with seven wins in their last eight games and are in second in the Southland Conference. Our volleyball team, after sweeping Nicholls a week ago, fell 3-0 at UIW in San Antonio on Saturday and is now 6-6 overall with two contests in South Texas ahead next weekend. Cross country season continues for our men and women, who continue grueling training and competition culminating with the conference championships Nov. 1.

Looking Ahead
Please mark your calendars for October 25 and 26 for our 2024 Homecoming festivities. These events will celebrate the rich history and achievements of our university. I look forward to seeing everyone there. For more information on these activities visit https://northwesternstatealumni.com/homecoming/.

As always, thank you for your continued hard work and commitment to our university’s mission. Faculty, enjoy Fall Break!

Fork ‘Em Demons,

President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese
Northwestern State University