LSUA Generals Briefing (Fall 2023) by lsualexandria

GENERALS BRIEFING FALL 2023 EDITION

(L-R) Tyler Unsicker, Coach Dimario Jackson, Chancellor Paul Coreil

MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR Paul Coreil, Ph.D.

Three years ago, we set an ambitious target of reaching an enrollment of 5,000 students at LSUA by 2025. Exceeding this goal two years ahead of schedule is an unparalleled achievement that fills our team with pride. Emerging as the fastest-growing 4-year university in Louisiana underscores the outstanding education and value that LSUA provides to students across Louisiana and the nation. Our success is not only apparent from enrollment numbers but also in the substantial increase in retention and our historic number of first-time freshmen. These achievements are a collective triumph resulting from hard work and dedication from our recruiters, marketing team, faculty, and staff. I extend a wholehearted congratulations to our LSUA team for this wellearned victory. Leadership changes have further strengthened our institution. Dr. Elizabeth Beard’s promotion to Interim Provost and Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Mr. Deron Thaxton’s elevation to Executive Vice Chancellor for Administration and Chief Financial Officer reflect their unparalleled commitment to LSUA. We congratulate both on assuming these vital leadership roles. Our success extended to the 2023 Legislative Session, where LSUA secured $8 million in Priority 1 Funding for the new Martin Family Student Success Center and $2.9 million for the LSUA Health Education Campus in downtown Alexandria. The groundbreaking ceremony for the Student Success Center held in the spring was a monumental event, and we are eager to begin construction.

The LSUA Health Education Campus is critical in addressing the shortage of nurses and allied health professionals in Central Louisiana. With generous support from Rapides Regional Medical Center and private businesses, we aim to double the number of healthcare graduates entering the workforce. I am also pleased to introduce Jeff Langston, our new Dean of the College of Health and Human Science. Jeff’s leadership will be instrumental in recruiting additional students into LSUA health professions, a vital step in addressing regional workforce shortages. Additionally, with support from Congresswoman Julia Letlow, LSUA received a $1 million federal Community Project Grant to focus on recruiting and graduating more certified school teachers across Central Louisiana. Lastly, I extend heartfelt thanks to Haywood Joiner, Ph.D., for his exemplary service as Dean of the College of Health & Human Services and his continued efforts to make the LSUA Health Education Campus a reality. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support over the past 4-5 years from the LSUA Foundation Board of Directors, our state officials, and the central Louisiana community. We look forward to commemorating the success of enrolling 5,000 students with an evening campus celebration on October 27. We hope you will join us at the LSUA Quad to celebrate this achievement! Go Generals!

Paul D. Coreil, Ph.D. LSUA Chancellor

LSUA Achieves Historic Enrollment Goal of 5,000+ Students Two Years Ahead of Schedule In a remarkable demonstration of growth and commitment to excellence, LSUA has surpassed its goal of enrolling 5,000 undergraduate students by 2025, two years ahead of its target. As of Fall 2023, LSUA proudly hosts a student population of 5,104, making it the fastest-growing public university in the state. Despite a nationwide downturn in undergraduate enrollments, LSUA triumphs with ten consecutive semesters of growth. The Fall 2023 enrollment figures reveal an unprecedented 24% increase compared to the previous year, translating to a net growth of 993 students. This surge includes an impressive 49% increase in transfers, a 6% uptick in on-campus enrollments, and a nearly 40% rise in students opting for 100% online programs. This achievement results from its excellent education quality, the hard work of its faculty and staff, and the unwavering support from the central Louisiana community. The Admissions and Recruitment team and the Division of Strategic Communications have also played a critical role in attracting first-time freshmen enrollees. This year’s class has 475 such students, marking a significant increase.

5,104

Fall 2023 Enrollment

4,111

Fall 2022 Enrollment

increase in On-Campus

24%

Growth from 2022 to 2023

Furthermore, the Division of Student Engagement has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant on-campus experience, orchestrating various events from cheering on Generals athletics teams to the community favorite Generals Jam and Tank Fest. These opportunities have transformed LSUA into a school of choice, contributing to the 65% in first-to-second-year retention of first-time freshmen compared to 2022. This vibrant campus life is reflected in the 100% occupancy rate of The Oaks, LSUA’s on-campus housing facility. The 2022-2023 school year witnessed a remarkable milestone in LSUA’s history with a record-breaking graduating class, marking a period of exponential growth. This achievement would not be possible without the unwavering commitment and hard work of the staff and faculty members at LSUA and the incredible backing of the central Louisiana community.

49%

40%

increase in Transfers

increase in Online

475

First Time Freshmen

100% 65%

First to Second Year Retention

Occupancy Rate for The Oaks Apartments

LSUA Celebrates Historic Investment by Louisiana State Legislature and Governor John Bel Edwards In a landmark move that underscores the commitment to education and workforce development in Central Louisiana, LSUA has received an unprecedented $11 million in new state funding for the 2023 Regular Legislative Session. This investment, championed by Governor John Bel Edwards and the Louisiana State Legislature, will fuel LSUA’s position as the fastest-growing 4-year university in the state, supporting vital infrastructure updates and building projects. The funding is strategically allocated to two major initiatives. First, an additional $8 million, coupled with $5 million from private donors, will complete the Martin Family Student Success Center. Set to begin construction this fall, this center is poised to transform the student experience on campus. Secondly, an exciting collaboration between the state, community business partners, and the Cenla Legislative Delegation has secured $3 million in state funding and $8 million in private funding to initiate the Downtown LSUA Health Education Campus in the heart of Alexandria. This state-of-the-art facility will double the number of students and graduates in LSUA’s Nursing and Allied Health programs, directly addressing the region’s critical health-related workforce shortages.

(L-R) Governor John Bel Edwards and Chancellor Paul Coreil

These historic investments, made possible through the collective efforts of LSU’s President Bill Tate, Governor Edwards, the Louisiana Legislature, the LSUA Foundation, and local business partners, mark a significant stride in LSUA’s mission to meet the region’s workforce needs.

LSUA Recognized at LSU Online & Continuing Education’s Spring Innovation Series Conference LSUA’s commitment to innovation in online education was celebrated at the LSU Online & Continuing Education’s (OCE) 2023 Spring Innovation Series event. Chancellor Paul Coreil received the Leading Transformation Award for his visionary leadership, under which over 75% of bachelor’s degrees are now offered online at LSUA. Cathy Robinson and Melissa Whitley were honored with the Innovative Contributions to Online Learning Award for their work expanding access to the BS in Health Professions degree for military students. Teresa Seymour, Director of Distance Learning, was recognized with the Reinventing the Student Experience Award for her profound impact on online student success. These accolades reflect LSUA’s dedication to transformative educational experiences.

(L-R) Chancellor Paul Coreil, Abbey Bain, Elizabeth Beard, Deron Thaxton

LSUA Earns Official Designation as a Native American-Serving Non-tribal Institution LSUA has been officially designated as a Native American-Serving Non-tribal Institution (NASNTI), a recognition that underscores its dedication to the educational needs of Native American students. As the only NASNTI in the state, LSUA has demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and support, with a graduation rate of nearly 26% among Native American students since 2015. This designation will further enable LSUA to collaborate with tribal leadership and education offices, enhancing its ability to serve Native Americans and contribute to the national effort to improve educational outcomes for this community.

(L-R) Darla Savant, Chancellor Paul Coreil

LSUA Announces New Leadership Appointments for Academic Colleges LSUA has announced key leadership appointments, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership development in healthcare, education, liberal arts, and social sciences. LSUA warmly welcomes these leaders and anticipates their visionary guidance in shaping the future workforce in central Louisiana. With 19 years of healthcare administration experience, Jeff Langston has been appointed as the new Dean of the College of Health and Human Services. Langston’s role will be pivotal in addressing Louisiana’s healthcare and education shortage, expanding programs, and fostering partnerships that underscore LSUA’s commitment to the region. Brenda Ellington, Ph.D., a cherished English professor since 1987, has been named Interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Her extensive background will continue to foster a rich educational experience in various fields. Beth Whittington, Chair of Criminal Justice, has been appointed Acting Dean of the College of Social Sciences. With nearly three decades of teaching experience and a background in law enforcement, Whittington will guide students in shaping society and making a positive impact.

TEACHING WITH EXCELLENCE

Learning with Purpose!

Jeff Langston, MBA, MHA

Brenda Ellington, Ph.D.

Beth Whittington, MA

Dean, College of Health & Human Services

Interim Dean, College of Liberal Arts

Acting Dean, College of Social Sciences

Haywood Joiner: A Legacy of Service and Vision for the Future of Health Education in Louisiana LSUA is ushering in a new era of healthcare education with the transition of Haywood Joiner, Ph.D., from Dean of the College of Health and Human Services to Chair of the Department of Allied Health. Joiner’s nearly two-decade tenure at LSUA will now focus on a visionary role for a major health education development in downtown Alexandria. Collaborating with community and governmental partners, Joiner will spearhead the creation of the LSUA Downtown Health Education Center, aiming to double the university’s annual nursing and allied health graduates to over 300. Strategically located near regional hospitals, the state-of-the-art facility will foster interdisciplinary learning and address Central Louisiana’s healthcare needs, reflecting LSUA’s commitment to excellence and innovation in healthcare education.

LSUA Celebrates Additional Funding for SPERO Program, Expanding Inclusive Education Initiatives Statewide SPERO Presents at the Rotary Club of Alexandria Louisiana

The SPERO program at LSUA received funding from the Postsecondary Inclusive Education Advisory Council. This funding will expand inclusive education programs at nine institutions across Louisiana, including LSUA’s SPERO program, which launched in the Fall of 2022 with four students under Brittany Soden’s leadership.

The LSUA SPERO Program, which means “I hope” in Latin, has made a significant impact on students with developmental disabilities. Brittany Soden, Director of the SPERO Program, recently presented the inspiring initiative at The Rotary Club of Alexandria Louisiana meeting. LSUA’s inclusive educational program aims to bring hope and change to the lives of its students and those they encounter. With a bright future ahead, the university continues to champion inclusivity and transformation through education. More information about SPERO is available at www. lsua.edu/spero.

The transformative programs are designed to provide comprehensive support, foster an inclusive campus culture, and equip students with intellectual and developmental disabilities with essential skills for success. The funding aligns with the Council’s goal to broaden programs across the state, with a focus on the northern region and ensuring Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) participation. A statewide survey indicates that eleven additional institutions are considering joining, reflecting the potential for further expansion.

Brittany Soden with SPERO Students

Brittany Soden

The success of LSUA’s SPERO students in their first year of college is a testament to the program’s effectiveness. They have not only participated in college courses, activities, and events but have also made significant progress in daily living, social, and employment skills. The students’ experience of equality and the warm reception they receive on campus underscore LSUA’s commitment to diversity, acceptance, and inclusivity. The university eagerly anticipates the next cohort of SPERO students joining in August, continuing to realize the dreams of students and positioning Louisiana as a leader in educational opportunities for all.

LSUA Foundation Honors Paul and Arlene Coreil with Legacy Oak on Campus Just as this live oak takes root and flourishes with time, so does the love of Chancellor Paul Coreil and his wife, Arlene, for LSUA. Their dedication and deep-rooted passion have nurtured our university while it grows and thrives. As this tree grows tall and resilient for years to come, it symbolizes the Coreils’ love for LSUA, its students, and its future. Over 80 people joined with the LSUA Foundation Board in honoring the Coreils at the Legacy Oak dedication ceremony. The Foundation donated the tree to celebrate the Coreils’ continued contributions to LSUA and the community. The Legacy Oaks Program was introduced in 2022 as a way for community members to help LSUA replace trees previously lost by honoring someone in perpetuity. Trees planted through this campaign will help restore the natural beauty of our campus.

(L-R) Spencer Martin, Chancellor Paul Coreil, Michael Crowell, Arlene Coreil, Glenda Stock Smith, Aloysia Ducote, Dr. Robert Freedman

The LSUA Foundation and Generals Athletic Association (GAA) cohosted the third annual Shrimp Jam fundraiser on September 21, 2023, at the Randolph Riverfront Center in Alexandria, LA. With nearly 600 in attendance, this year’s sold-out event was headlined by Jay Johnson, Head Coach of LSU Baseball, fresh off of his Men’s College World Series victory. The fundraiser’s proceeds will directly benefit the student-athletes of LSUA and the LSUA Foundation, reinforcing the university’s commitment to supporting its athletic programs and enhancing the educational experience for its students.

LSUA School of Education Earns A+ National Rating for Teacher Preparation in the Science of Reading Instruction LSUA has earned an A+ grade for its undergraduate elementary education program’s commitment to effective reading instruction, according to the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ). This prestigious recognition places LSUA among the leading institutions in the country for preparing future teachers in the science of reading. The NCTQ’s Teacher Prep Review praised LSUA’s approach to ensuring high-quality reading instruction for aspiring educators. The university continues to focus on continuous improvement and addressing the needs of all learners, solidifying its exceptional quality in elementary education.

Tennis Coach Melinda Descant Earns National Honors as Wilson ITA Coach of the Year Melinda Descant, LSUA Tennis Head Coach, has been honored as the 2023 Wilson ITA Coach of the Year, a well-deserved recognition reflecting her extraordinary achievements. Descant’s nine years of experience have helped new coaches succeed at LSUA, while her teams have set academic standards with an average GPA over 3.7 and a 90% graduation rate. Her winning streak includes a flawless 15-0 record in 2022 and 12-0 in 2023, leading the Generals to their highest national ranking at #3. With an overall record of 111-36, every team under Descant’s guidance since 2015 has qualified for the national tournament, underscoring her remarkable impact on collegiate athletics.

LSUA Celebrates Grand Opening of Career Center In June, LSUA celebrated the grand opening of its Career Center, a hub for connecting students and alums with potential employers. The center’s annual Career Fair is set for September 18 at The Fort at LSUA, continuing the success of the Spring Career Fair, which hosted 43 companies and attracted over 300 students. Whether businesses seek new graduates or students are exploring employment opportunities, the LSUA Career Fair is an excellent platform for showcasing companies and recruiting top talent. Learn more at www.lsua.edu/career.

LSUA College of Business Celebrates New Alexandria Business Foundation Hall of Distinction The LSUA College of Business recently commemorated the Alexandria Business Foundation Hall of Distinction in a ribboncutting ceremony on August 30. This recognition followed the Foundation’s generous $600,000 donation to establish an endowed chair of Accounting at LSUA. With the 60/40 matching funds of the Louisiana Board of Regents, the endowment was solidified as the $1,000,000 Alexandria Business Foundation Endowed Chair of Accounting. This strategic investment aims to bolster the College’s ability to recruit top-tier accounting faculty while enhancing research, hands-on learning, and professional growth opportunities.

LSUA Study Abroad Students Travel to Tokyo, Japan LSUA’s Study Abroad Program, in collaboration with Komazawa University, recently embarked on a nearly month-long journey to Tokyo as part of the Japanese Language and Culture Program. Through KOMSTUDY, the Generals immersed themselves in Japanese culture, participating in lessons ranging across calligraphy, karate, lectures, campus tours, and sightseeing. This enriching experience expanded their language skills and deepened their understanding of Japanese culture, providing lifelong memories. LSUA expresses gratitude for the successful collaboration with Komazawa University and KOMSTUDY, reflecting its commitment to global education.

(L-R) Carl Carstens, Frank Brame, Ed Caplan

LSUA Hosted Annual Juneteenth Celebration LSUA marked the federal holiday of Juneteenth with its annual celebration on June 15 at the Brumfield-Caffey Annex. The event, honoring the end of slavery in the United States, featured speakers from LSUA’s leadership team, staff, and students. Attendees participated in a symbolic “freedom walk” with friends from COPE INC TRIO Programs, journeying from the main campus to the Epps House, a structure partly built by Soloman Northup. The event culminated in a wreath-laying and remembrance ceremony, reflecting LSUA’s commitment to honoring history and fostering community engagement.

LSUA School of Nursing & LA HOSA Future Health Professionals Host Future Nurse Camp LSUA School of Nursing, in partnership with LA HOSA Future Health Professional, hosted the Future Nurses Camp on campus this summer, aimed at high school students interested in nursing careers. The camp offered hands-on experience in clinical nursing skills such as vital signs, assessment, and medication administration. Participants were able to explore various nursing careers and educational pathways, gaining insights into nursing school preparation. The initiative, reflecting LSUA’s commitment to nurturing future healthcare professionals, was funded by a Future of HealthC.A.R.E. Program Grant from The Rapides Foundation.

Amie Starks, MSN, RN, CPST

LSUA’s Deron Thaxton Promoted to Executive Vice Chancellor for Administration and Chief Financial Officer LSUA has announced the promotion of Deron Thaxton to Executive Vice Chancellor for Administration and Chief Financial Officer. Thaxton began his career at LSUA in 2003 and has held various key roles, contributing significantly to the university’s growth and success. His stewardship has led to remarkable achievements, including a 91.6% increase in enrollment since 2014 and growth in university auxiliary and restricted accounts from $200,000 to $10.2M. The new position will see Thaxton expanding his responsibilities, providing executive leadership in campus operations, and increasing direct support to the Office of the Chancellor. His promotion reflects LSUA’s confidence in his leadership and vision for the future.

8100 Hwy 71 South Alexandria, LA 71302