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GENERALS BRIEFING SPRING 2024 EDITION

MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR Paul Coreil, Ph.D.

In the past six months, LSUA has experienced a season of remarkable growth and academic achievement. The recordbreaking enrollment of 5,104 students for Fall 2023 solidified LSUA as Louisiana’s fastest-growing public university. This achievement was commemorated at the 5,000 Celebration event, complete with music and fireworks. In addition, we had the pleasure of honoring 507 graduates during our commencement ceremony in December. We greatly appreciate our commencement speaker, Quinnie Jenkins, Director of Community Engagement at Delta Air Lines, for helping us celebrate these future leaders’ hard work and commitment. Our journey has been driven by a shared vision of excellence and innovation punctuated by several groundbreaking initiatives and our commitment to academic success. In recent months, we’ve partnered with the Rapides Parish School Board in the launch of Bolton Academy. This program combines a STEAM-based curriculum with the LSUA dual enrollment program, allowing Bolton Academy students to earn associate degrees upon graduation from high school. Furthering our commitment to academic innovation, we proudly introduced a new Dental Hygiene program in collaboration with LSU Health New Orleans. This program at our downtown campus offers a robust Bachelor of Science curriculum in dental hygiene. Complementing this is a newly launched pre-med program developed in partnership with LSU Health Shreveport and New Orleans. These programs are designed to cultivate well-rounded students entering the medical field and expand their professional opportunities.

In September, we held our largest Career Fair, with over 70 companies and 400 students. This incredible event demonstrates the impact of our educational programs on career readiness and our commitment to student success and professional growth. Looking ahead to 2024, LSUA is poised for further growth, with online and on-campus enrollments showing promising trends. LSUA will continue strengthening partnerships with the City of Alexandria, the Central Louisiana Congressional Delegation, and the new Governor’s administration, focusing on elevating workforce quality in critical sectors and providing development opportunities for local employees. The upcoming groundbreaking of the Martin Family Student Success Center and our efforts towards the Downtown Health Education Campus in Alexandria are pivotal steps in our journey forward. LSUA is distinguished for its family atmosphere. We are proud of our outstanding faculty, staff, and students who have received numerous awards and recognitions in the past few months. These accolades demonstrate their hard work and unwavering dedication to student success. Together, we are forging ahead with purpose and passion, shaping a brighter future for LSUA and our community. Go Generals!

Paul D. Coreil, Ph.D. LSUA Chancellor

Together

TOWARD EXCELLENCE Collaboration plays a crucial role in facilitating academic excellence and innovation at LSUA. The university partners with prestigious institutions and organizations to expand educational opportunities and offer cuttingedge programs to students. These partnerships exemplify LSUA’s commitment to student success with groundbreaking initiatives with Bolton Academy and innovative medical and dental programs with LSU Health. Through these strategic alliances, LSUA enhances the quality of its educational offerings and strengthens its role as a leader in academic innovation and community development.

L-R: Jay Johnson (LSU Baseball Head Coach) and Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor)

LSUA to Become the Higher Education Partner of RPSB’s New Bolton Academy LSUA announces a groundbreaking partnership with the Rapides Parish School Board, supporting the new Bolton Academy, set to launch in fall 2024. This academic and performing arts magnet school will focus on a STEAM curriculum, blending Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics with hands-on learning and real-world applications. This approach aims to prepare students for college and career readiness, featuring a mix of Honors, Dual Enrollment, and AP courses.

L-R: Barry the Bear (Bolton Academy Mascot), Jeff Powell (RPSB Superintendent of Schools), Jenifer Scott (Bolton Academy Principal), Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor), and Tank (LSUA Mascot)

This collaboration extends LSUA’s dual enrollment program to Bolton Academy upperclassmen, allowing them to earn college credits while in high school. This initiative is part of LSUA’s commitment to fostering student success and educational innovation in central Louisiana. Key to this partnership is the opportunity for Bolton Academy students to potentially earn an associate degree by the time they graduate high school, reducing both the cost and time typically required for a four-year degree. LSUA’s dual enrollment program stands out for its personalized approach, including small class sizes and comprehensive academic support, providing enrolled students with access to LSUA’s campus resources and community.

2023 LSUA Shrimp Jam Featuring LSU Baseball Head Coach Jay Johnson Raises Over $119,000 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, College World Series Champion Head Coach of LSU Baseball. Warren Morris, the 1996 World Series hero for LSU Baseball, introduced Johnson at the event. Over $119,000 was raised to support the LSUA Athletics programs and enhance the institutional experience for all LSUA students.

Jay Johnson (LSU Baseball Head Coach) with LSUA Student-Athletes

Warren Morris (1996 LSU Baseball World Series Champion)

LSUA and LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry Unveil Pioneering Dental Hygiene Program in Central Louisiana LSUA, in partnership with LSU Health New Orleans, has proudly introduced the inaugural dental hygiene program in central Louisiana, broadening the scope of high-quality healthcare education in the region. This expansion by LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry has been strategically placed at LSUA’s accessible downtown campus. Tailored to encompass the crucial junior and senior collegiate years, the program admits six students annually into its Bachelor of Science curriculum, offering an intimate, focused academic journey. Courses are intensive, covering oral diagnosis, radiology, and physiology, and aim to graduate professionals adept in treating and preventing oral diseases to uphold excellent dental health. The initiative began as a vision shared by LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil and former Central Louisiana Dental Association President Dr. Trey Carlton. In 2021, a concerted effort by local dental leaders, LSU Health New Orleans Interim Chancellor Dr. Steve Nelson, and the School of Dentistry led to the acquisition of state funds, bringing the program to life. The strategic location in Alexandria, supported by Rapides Regional Medical Center, not only enriches LSUA’s array of affordable educational offerings but also serves the community by promoting oral health and supporting the goal that its graduates embark on their careers debt-free. This development enhances LSUA’s legacy of educational excellence, now complementing the LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry’s esteemed national standing in comprehensive dental education.

LSUA Announces Groundbreaking Partnership with LSU Health Sciences Centers to Boost Medical Careers in Central Louisiana

LSUA students will benefit from guaranteed interview opportunities at LSU’s medical schools, providing a clear trajectory for aspiring doctors, with added prospects for those targeting rural healthcare through specialized scholarships. Integral to this endeavor, liaisons from the medical schools will ensure curricular alignment and advisory proficiency, fortifying LSUA’s commitment to accessible and comprehensive medical education.

LSUA launched a pivotal pre-med program through a collaboration with LSU Health Shreveport and LSU Health New Orleans. This program is tailored for majors in Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology, focusing on holistic learning experiences. The program encompasses seminars on academic rigor, financial acumen, and community service, alongside extracurriculars to sculpt well-rounded medical school candidates.

L-R: Nathan Ponder (LSUA College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics Dean), Elizabeth Beard (LSUA Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs & Provost), Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor), Dr. David Lewis (LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine Dean), and Dr. Wanda Thomas (LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine Associate Dean for Admissions)

LSUA’s Record-breaking Career Fair Welcomes 70+ Companies and 400 Students The LSUA Career Center marked a significant milestone with its largestever Career Fair on September 18th. Hosting over 70 companies and attracting around 400 students, the event spanned from 9 AM to 2 PM, achieving an impressive 90% satisfaction rate among attendees. This platform enabled students to engage with a diverse range of organizations, from local businesses to national corporations, including notable names like RoyOMartin and CLECO. Notably, the fair highlighted the success of LSUA’s practical education approach, as evidenced by an LSUA student featured as an intern at a leading company’s booth. This event underlines the Career Center’s ongoing commitment to fostering professional growth among students, cementing its role in the community’s developmental narrative. R: Mary Beth Palmer (LSUA Assistant Vice Chancellor for Holistic Education and Career Development)

LSUA Hosts International Education Week & Native American Heritage Month Campus Event LSUA International Programs ignited cultural curiosity and celebration on campus. Kicking off with a vibrant Diwali event, students immersed themselves in Indian culture through cuisine, Bollywood performances, and shared experiences from LSUA students who studied abroad in Japan. The festivities continued with the Jena Band of Choctaw POWWOW, honoring Native American Heritage Month. This event was enriched by a panel of international students discussing their diverse global perspectives. The week’s activities were a dedication to cultural exchange and learning, highlighting the enriching cultural heritages within the campus community.

Estate of Hugh C. Smith Establishes a $338,000 Endowed Scholarship for Biological Sciences at LSUA The LSUA Foundation celebrated a generous endowment of $338,000 from Hugh C. Smith’s estate, earmarked to create a perpetual scholarship within the College of Mathematics and Natural Science, specifically aiding students in the biological sciences. Dr. Smith, a distinguished alum of Mississippi State University, devoted his career to education at LSUA, culminating in his appointment as Professor Emeritus. Reflecting Smith’s dedication, the Department of Biological Sciences continues to foster an intimate academic environment conducive to scholarly growth. Through comprehensive teaching, innovative pedagogy, and active undergraduate research, the department not only conveys biological concepts but also instills a scientific ethos. This approach equips students with critical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills, priming them for advanced studies and professional endeavors within the broad spectrum of natural and life sciences, and upholds their roles as informed, ethical participants in the scientific arena.

A SEASON OF

Triumphs LSUA is proud to celebrate the exceptional accomplishments and distinguished honors of its devoted staff, faculty, and supporters. The university has been recognized for excellence in various fields, from prestigious awards by the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce to national accolades. Each honor reflects the collective effort and passion of individuals who continually elevate LSUA’s reputation in education, community engagement, and innovation.

LSUA Hosts 5,000 Celebration Event to Commemorate Historic Enrollment LSUA celebrated a significant milestone with its 5,000 Celebration event on October 27, marking its record-breaking enrollment. In Fall 2023, LSUA surpassed its goal of enrolling 5,000 undergraduates by 2025, reaching 5,104. This 24% increase from the previous year established LSUA as the fastest-growing public university in Louisiana, defying national trends of declining enrollments. The campus event featured food, fireworks, and music from Capital City Soul, where faculty, staff, students, and community members celebrated this historic achievement. The university’s diverse student body now includes individuals from 38 countries and all 64 of Louisiana’s parishes. LSUA’s success was made possible through the collaborative efforts of its faculty, staff, and the central Louisiana community. Their dedication has been crucial in enhancing campus life, achieving a 65% retention rate, providing an innovative educational experience, and demonstrating LSUA’s role in regional workforce development.

LSUA Celebrates 507 Summer and Fall Graduates at Fall Commencement Ceremony LSUA celebrated the achievements of 507 graduates at a commencement ceremony held at the Rapides Parish Coliseum. The event marked a significant milestone for students completing their academic journeys. Chancellor Coreil lauded the graduates for their hard work, dedication, and sacrifices to reach this pivotal point in their lives. Quinnie Jenkins, Director of Community Engagement at Delta Air Lines and Vice President of The Delta Air Lines Foundation, delivered the commencement address, emphasizing the value of commitment and community service. LSUA proudly celebrates its Summer and Fall 2023 graduates as they pursue their future careers.

Quinnie Jenkins (Delta Air Lines Director of Community Engagement)

Protect. Serve. Graduate! AN INTERVIEW WITH

Albert “Marty” Brown LSUA Police Officer & 2023 Graduate Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice What inspired you to pursue a degree while serving as a campus police officer? How has your educational journey at LSUA shaped your career and personal aspirations? While at LSUA, many people asked me why I wasn’t taking advantage of my time on campus by completing a degree. My stubborn response was that I had enough experience. In reality, I struggled in college after graduating high school and felt ashamed of my grades. My son’s struggles with schoolwork motivated me to pursue my academic goals that had been put on hold for a while. I wanted to be an example for him that it is never too late to pursue your goals. Thanks to the exceptional faculty and staff at LSUA and the support from the leadership within the University Police, I achieved my goal with honors. During my academic journey, I realized how much I have grown as a person since the first time I attended college. The faculty at LSUA are incredibly talented, and their classes provided a great refresher while also helping me advance my career aspirations. I have proven to myself and my son the importance of putting in the hard work. Tell us about your background and career in law enforcement, particularly in the campus setting. During my first college experience, a psychology class ignited my fascination with human behavior, steering me toward a law enforcement career. After years in law enforcement, workplace politics took its toll on me, but I wasn’t happy with life outside the force. When I was hired at LSUA, I immediately felt a sense of belonging with the campus community. Our once-small campus, now bigger than most neighborhoods, is a close-knit community I proudly serve and protect. LSUA isn’t just a job; it’s a community I’m proud to call home. Having worked at LSUA for the past 11 years, I have come to appreciate the change of pace from rapid calls and reports to investing in students. It’s been a privilege to see new students conquer challenges and earn their degrees. Reflecting on your time at LSUA as a student and officer, what experiences or lessons will influence your future as a law enforcer? Being a full-time student helped me understand what our students go through and how to help them deal with their struggles. Being in the classroom, taking the same tests, and sharing their experience broke down barriers and made me a better officer and a stronger community member. Having experienced student struggles firsthand, like late-night studying and semester anxieties, shifted my policing approach. I want to become the friendly face they need during those tough times, that voice of hope that keeps them going.

LSUA’s Abbey Bain and Chase Dyess were Honored by the Chamber’s Young Professionals Group at the 2023 Cenla 4Ward Awards The Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Young Professionals Group of Cenla (YPG) have spotlighted LSUA’s Vice Chancellor for Enrollment & Student Engagement Abbey Bain, Ph.D., and Marketing Coordinator Chase Dyess in their 2023 CENLA 4WARD and “4 Under 40” recognitions. Bain, celebrated for her exemplary leadership and dynamic role in student engagement at LSUA, is noted for fostering an engaging campus atmosphere and her vigorous advocacy for professional development in the local business community. Dyess, acknowledged as a CENLA 4WARD Nominee, brings his exceptional marketing acumen and community involvement to LSUA and the broader central Louisiana area, contributing significantly to the university’s growth and reputation. Their achievements embody the four pillars of the CENLA 4WARD program: community involvement, industry impact, leadership, and relentless dedication, making them influential figures in advancing the region’s development and prosperity.

Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce 2023 Bizzy Awards LSUA was recently honored by the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce with multiple special awards at the 2023 Bizzy Awards. The Bizzy Awards showcase the best and brightest businesses, nonprofits, and institutions in central Louisiana.

LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil Awarded Red River Bank Entrepreneur of the Year

L-R: Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor) and Blake Chatelain (Red River Bank CEO)

Chancellor Paul Coreil was honored with the Red River Bank Entrepreneur of the Year Award. This award, typically reserved for business owners, was given to Chancellor Coreil for his visionary leadership. Blake Chatelain, CEO of Red River Bank, emphasized that true entrepreneurship extends beyond business ownership. It encompasses the ability to envisage and actualize innovative spaces. Chancellor Coreil’s impact at LSUA, fostering a culture of growth and excellence, embodies this entrepreneurial spirit. This honor reflects his significant contributions to the university and the wider community.

LSUA’s Connie Cooper Honored with the Proctor & Gamble Equality and Inclusion Award Connie Cooper, Director of Civil Rights Compliance & Access at LSUA, was honored with the Proctor & Gamble Equality and Inclusion Award. Cooper’s recognition stems from her initiatives on campus and in the wider community. Among her notable achievements is the “Sisters Like Me: Black Girl Magic” event that was held in October. This event featured discussions on diversity and empowerment and celebrated student achievements with scholarships and awards. Cooper’s dedication to these LSUA initiatives highlights the ongoing efforts to create a welcoming campus community. Connie Cooper (LSUA Director of Civil Rights Compliance & Access)

LSUA Women’s Soccer Team Scores First-Ever Red River Conference Championship The LSUA Generals women’s soccer team achieved a historic milestone by winning their first Red River Athletic Conference Tournament Championship. Their journey to triumph included notable victories over teams like LCU and Xavier, leading to a showdown with LSUS Pilots in the finals. The team’s success continued as they earned a spot in the NAIA National Tournament, facing the Benedictine College Ravens in Columbia, Missouri. Despite a 3-1 defeat, the Generals celebrated a season of record-breaking achievements, including their highest single-season win count, longest win and unbeaten streaks, and their inaugural conference championship and NAIA National Championship qualification. Under Head Coach Mark Hammond’s guidance, the Generals look to the future, ready to build on their newfound legacy.

LSUA’s Student Athletes Achieve Record-Breaking GPAs During Fall 2023 Semester LSUA Athletics achieved an incredible milestone during the fall semester, recording a cumulative GPA of 3.2 across its 166 student-athletes. This accomplishment marks the first time in the university’s history that the department has surpassed a 3.0 GPA. The Women’s Tennis team attained an average GPA of 3.92, with seven out of eight players scoring a perfect 4.0. Additionally, 33 student-athletes earned placement on the Chancellor’s list with a 4.0 GPA, while 45 made the Dean’s list, and 33 were honored with GPAs ranging from 3.0 to 3.49. The newly established LSUA Student-Athlete Academic Success Center contributed to these outstanding academic achievements, providing essential tutoring services and assisting athletes.

LSUA’s Division of Strategic Communications Earns Lantern Award of Excellence from the Southern Public Relations Federation The LSUA Division of Strategic Communications was recognized at the Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF) fall conference in Huntsville, Alabama, earning the prestigious Lantern Award of Excellence for their innovative “Your Future Without Limits” campaign. This accolade celebrates the team’s strategic approach to enhancing LSUA’s image and digital footprint, combining high-quality videos, graphics, and messaging to spotlight the university’s academics, affordability, and campus life. The campaign, which spanned nine academic areas, was praised for its creative content and effectiveness. The Lantern Awards recognize distinguished PR efforts across various categories, with submissions meticulously judged by seasoned PR professionals beyond SPRF’s Gulf South membership, validating LSUA’s exemplary work in public relations. L-R: Nathan Parish (LSUA Multimedia Coordinator), Brianne Lashley (LSUA Web Content Coordinator), Chase Dyess (LSUA Marketing Coordinator), Mira Parks (LSUA Communications Coordinator), and Adam Lord (LSUA Assistant Vice Chancellor for Strategic Communications)

Ambassador of Achievement! AN INTERVIEW WITH

Zoria Sewell

LSUA Student Ambassador & 2023 Graduate Bachelor of Science in Biology Looking back on your four years at LSUA, what standout moments or experiences impacted your college journey? One of the many memories that shaped my experience was becoming president of the Black Organization for Leadership and Development (BOLD) during my sophomore year. Serving in that position helped shape my leadership skills and branch out to new organizations. Making connections often improves the college experience for students. How did you connect with the campus community? I was able to build a sense of community by simply being myself. As a people person, I always found it easy to initiate conversations with strangers. Even if it was just a smile or a wave, people on campus felt noticed and found me approachable when they had questions or needed help with tutoring. How did your involvement in extracurricular activities and student organizations help you grow personally and academically? Participating in organizations and campus events pushed me to stay academically strong. I knew that falling behind on my scores could disqualify me from leadership positions within some of the clubs, especially those awarding scholarships. Beyond grades, the experience was transformative. The responsibility of being a club president involved navigating challenging situations and facing my fear of public speaking head-on. Though initially nerve-wracking, each presentation felt a little easier than the last. By my senior year, I could confidently present in front of large audiences. Looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for those opportunities to push my boundaries and step outside my comfort zone. What advice would you give current LSUA students to help them make the most of their college experience? Get involved! There is more to college than just academics. Actively engaging with fellow students and faculty has opened many doors, both on and off campus. Those connections have proven invaluable in my personal and professional growth. Also, do not be afraid to ask for help and support. LSUA offers numerous student resources and services that can improve your experience.

LSUA Athletics Unveils the Inaugural Hall of Fame with its 2024 Inductees LSUA is set to inaugurate its first Athletics Hall of Fame class in 2024, honoring six distinguished athletes who have significantly contributed to the university’s sports legacy. The celebration of these athletes will take place at the Inaugural Athletics Hall of Fame Brunch & Induction Ceremony, scheduled for February 24, 2024, at The Outpost in The Fort on campus. Director of Athletics Tyler Unsicker expressed the university’s pride and excitement in honoring these inductees. The selected athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship during their time at LSUA and laid the groundwork for the current and future successes of the university’s athletic department. Their induction into the Hall of Fame celebrates both their individual achievements and their collective contribution to the spirit and growth of LSUA athletics.

2024 LSUA Athletic Hall of Fame Class Tid Hilger, Baseball (2009-2012) Adam Hines, Baseball (2012-2015) Julinn Torres, Softball (2014-2017) Jordin Williams, Men’s Basketball (2014-2018) Sara Andrade, Tennis (2014-2017) Zeb Winstead, Spirit of LSUA

Beth Whittington Honored by the Alexandria Bar Association at the 9th Judicial District Court 2023 Opening Ceremony Beth Whittington, Interim Dean of the LSUA College of Social Sciences, was recently honored by the Alexandria Bar Association with the Debbie Smith Award. This accolade, bestowed at the 2023 Opening of Court ceremony of the 9th Judicial District Court, recognizes a non-lawyer’s contributions to promoting legal understanding and civic responsibility. With a tenure at LSUA since 1994, Whittington has been pivotal in guiding criminal justice students and establishing an internship program with the district court. Her approach combines experiential learning with academic rigor, preparing students for successful criminal justice careers. The award highlights Whittington’s impact on her students and her significant role in fostering respect for the judiciary and enhancing good governance within the community. L-R: Beth Whittington and Allie Nowlin (9th Judicial District Court Criminal Staff Attorney)

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation Honors LSUA SPERO Advocates with The Angel Award® The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation celebrates the 2023 Angel Award honorees, spotlighting Alexandria’s own Penny Smith and Melva Terrell Villard for their extraordinary advocacy for children with developmental and intellectual challenges. Their relentless pursuit to broaden educational opportunities culminated in the founding of the SPERO program at LSUA, which opens the doors of higher education to those traditionally excluded. SPERO participants experience college coursework, life and employment skill development, and vocational training, with the program culminating in gainful employment placement. This year’s Angel Award not only commemorates individual champions of child welfare but also accentuates the transformative ripple effect their advocacy has on academia and regional prosperity.

L-R: Melva Villard, Morgan Villard, Katelyn Smith, and Penny Smith

Mary Treuting, Ph.D. Dean & Professor Emeritus The LSUA family mourns the passing of Mary “Boonie” Treuting, Ph.D., a faculty leader whose 30-year career left an indelible mark on the university and the countless individuals she impacted. Treuting was a pillar of LSUA, tirelessly advocating for academic excellence and community engagement. Her vision and dedication helped create academic programs that continue to empower students and faculty alike. Treuting’s leadership was instrumental in the growth and development of the Psychology department and the College of Social Science. To honor her remarkable contributions, Treuting was recently awarded the distinction of Dean Emeritus of the College of Social Sciences and Professor Emeritus, Professor of Psychology. Treuting leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a treasured educator, mentor, and friend. Her passion for learning, unwavering dedication to students, and selfless service will forever inspire the LSUA community to strive for excellence and compassion.

1958-2024

8100 Hwy 71 South Alexandria, LA 71302