I hope everyone had an enjoyable and restful Fourth of July weekend. As we move into the second half of the summer and begin a new fiscal year, important work continues across our university that positions us for a strong start to the fall semester.

FY 26 Budget
Last week, I met with CFO Rodney Wilson to finalize the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. I want to commend Rodney, Dawn Eubanks, and the entire staff in Business Affairs for their diligence and professionalism throughout this process. Their stewardship ensures that Northwestern remains one of the most fiscally sound institutions in the University of Louisiana System. The FY 26 budget has been strategically crafted to provide targeted support for key initiatives outlined in our Strategic Enrollment Plan, positioning the university to strengthen recruitment, retention, and student success. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to financial responsibility and to advancing the mission of our university.

TRIO Student Support Services Grant Funding
I am pleased to share that Northwestern has been selected as a recipient in the first round of funding from the U.S. Department of Education’s TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant competition. TRIO SSS is a federally funded program that helps low-income, first-generation college students, and students with disabilities succeed in college. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Special thanks to Frances Welch for leading this effort, with essential support provided by Laurie Morrow and the Office of Economic Development, and Alysia Jones and the Office of Sponsored Programs.

Off-Campus Instructional Sites Strategy Day
On Tuesday, the Office of Economic Development and University Advancement hosted a Strategy Day for our Off-Campus Instructional Sites. The event brought together leaders from Alexandria, Barksdale, Leesville, and Marksville to align strategic direction and strengthen collaboration across the institution. These sites are essential to our mission by expanding access, driving regional workforce development, and enriching the communities we serve. The insights shared and the dedication of these leaders reaffirm how vital these instructional sites are to the future of Northwestern.

Fort Polk Change of Command Ceremony
Representatives from Northwestern proudly attended the Change of Command ceremony at the United States Army Garrison, Fort Polk (formerly Fort Johnson), where Colonel J. Adam Barlow assumed command from Colonel Clifton J. Lopez III. The event, held at the Fort Polk Military Museum, emphasized the strength of leadership and tradition within the U.S. Army. Northwestern values its ongoing relationship with Fort Polk and remains committed to supporting military-connected students, families, and personnel. Our presence in the Fort Polk community is an important part of the university’s mission to serve those who serve our nation.

Athletics Update
After a tremendous performance this spring and great progress in every aspect of our baseball program, I happily concurred with our AD Kevin Bostian to extend and enhance the contract of our head baseball coach, Chris Bertrand, through the 2028 season. The 2025 Demons had the program’s best Southland Conference showing since 2016 and, in non-conference play, secured a commanding 13-3 run-rule win in Baton Rouge over eventual national champion LSU on April 22, by far the Tigers’ biggest loss of the year. We know more success is ahead with “Coach Bert” in the Demons’ dugout.

Thank you all for your continued dedication to our students, our campuses, and our mission. I look forward to the weeks ahead as we continue building momentum for the fall.

Fork ‘Em Demons,

President James T. “Jimmy” Genovese
Northwestern State University