LSUA Generals Briefing (Summer 2024)

GENERALS BRIEFING

L-R:

(LSU

2024 Ms. LSUA, Breanna McDowell

MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR

Paul Coreil, Ph.D.

I am thrilled to share some exciting milestones and developments at LSUA. Over the past few months, there has been unprecedented growth, innovation, and community impact. Our faculty and staff, with the support of our community, have achieved something remarkable. Spring enrollment exceeded fall figures for the first time in LSUA history, a rare achievement in higher education. Spring 2024 saw a record-breaking enrollment of 5,405 students, a 35.5% increase from the previous year, solidifying LSUA’s position as the fastest-growing public university in Louisiana.

LSUA’s exceptional growth is fueled by collaboration, generous donors, and the vibrant central Louisiana community. Every contribution to LSUA has made a lasting impact, helping our students graduate with minimal debt, remain in the local area, and excel in their chosen professions. At the Spring Commencement, we celebrated our largest class to date, with 438 graduates ready to enter the workforce. LSUA is a hub of opportunity and innovation that drives economic growth, and we are proud to see our community thrive from our graduates’ knowledge and skills.

Partnerships have allowed LSUA to expand its academic programs, facilitate cutting-edge research, and drive innovation. Through collaborations with industry leaders and strategic partnerships, LSUA will be able to provide new degree paths, including a new pre-engineering program with LSU, a joint initiative with the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, and an interdisciplinary pre-med program with LSU Health Sciences Centers. LSUA is leading the way in incorporating workforce development into higher education.

LSUA’s community engagement is further exemplified by the recent opening of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the LSUA Continuing Education & Community Outreach office. These initiatives will spur economic development and provide vital workforce training. LSUA, now designated as a 2024-2025 Military Friendly® School with a Gold-level distinction, partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense at Fort Johnson to launch Starbase, an immersive STEM-focused education program for elementary students.

Technology is rapidly changing the business landscape and employment expectations. LSUA has made significant investments in its technology so students can access state-ofthe-art resources that enrich their learning experience and equip them with work-ready professional skills. LSUA’s commitment to student success beyond the classroom directly contributes to our impressive 90% retention rate.

As LSUA continues its upward trajectory, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide affordable, accessible, and innovative education that strengthens the workforce and transforms lives. We are deeply grateful for the continued support of our donors, community partners, faculty, staff, and students, who are all integral to our success. Together, we are forging a brighter future for LSUA and the communities we proudly serve.

Paul D. Coreil, Ph.D. LSUA Chancellor

OF CHANGE Champions

How Community Support Fuels LSUA’s Growth and Innovation

LSUA’s record-breaking enrollment and ongoing growth are a direct result of generous donations and vibrant community support. Partnerships like the CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital’s $1 million pledge for the Cabrini Cohort Program address regional healthcare needs by funding nursing student education and ensuring employment in health careers facing critical workforce shortages. Scholarships like the Howard and Eloise Mulder Endowed Scholarship further illustrate the transformational impact of philanthropy. This program grants $20,000 to four incoming freshmen, cultivating future leaders who excel in academics and community service.

Every contribution, large or small, leaves a lasting impact, ensuring LSUA remains a hub of opportunity and innovation in central Louisiana. The LSUA Foundation’s role in securing substantial scholarships and educational investments contributes directly to LSUA’s consistent growth and new state-of-the-art facilities. The powerful partnerships between LSUA, its donors, and the greater community lay the groundwork for continued excellence and service.

L-R: Deborah Randolph (Central LA Regional Chamber of Commerce President), Azar Kayal (LA Governor’s Office of Rural Development Region 6 Director), Monte Wilson, (CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital CEO), Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor), Chris Karam (Sr. Vice President CHRISTUS Health) Rick Ranson (City of Alexandria, Office of Economic Development)

CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini

Commits $1M in Academic Support and Tuition Reimbursement for LSUA Nursing Graduates

LSUA announced a new cohort program with CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital to offer nursing students substantial financial support, specialized training, and guaranteed employment. The program provides tuition reimbursement of up to $25,000 per student, along with exclusive resources like NCLEX preparation, clinical simulations, and job shadowing. Upon successful graduation and licensure, cohort members are guaranteed positions at Cabrini.

The program is designed to support nursing students at LSUA who are eligible for Pell Grant support. Cabrini’s initial $1 million investment supports the local healthcare workforce and makes nursing education more accessible in the region. This collaboration complements LSUA’s plans for a new Downtown Alexandria Health Education Campus, positioning the university to transform central Louisiana’s healthcare landscape and address the critical nursing shortage.

LSUA Foundation Raised $123,515 During Giving Day

LSUA’s Giving Day was a resounding success, raising $123,515 and surpassing its donor goal with contributions from alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters. Funds raised through this event support scholarships, student success initiatives, faculty retention, new projects, and workforce development. Donations to this fund were generously matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000 by an anonymous LSUA supporter. This match doubled the impact of this year’s Giving Day contributions. Thanks to the community’s dedication, LSUA Giving Day was successful in its efforts to empower students and elevate the university.

Jeff Langston (LSUA Dean of Health & Humans Services)

L-R: Ashlee Hatwig (LSUA Coordinator of New Student Programs), Kelly Pepper (LSUA Foundation President)

L-R: Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor), Monte Wilson, (CHRISTUS St. Frances Cabrini Hospital CEO)

LSUA Honors Four Incoming Freshman with the Coveted $20,000 Mulder Scholarship

LSUA proudly announced the recipients of the esteemed Howard and Eloise Mulder Endowed Scholarship for the incoming freshman class. Leah Buller (Pineville High School), Abdul Hadi (Carbondale Community High School), Canaan Hoosier (Buckeye High School), and Jaycie O’Conner (Vinton High School) have been named the 2024 Mulder Scholars. This prestigious distinction includes a $20,000 scholarship distributed over four years.

The Mulder Scholarship was established through a generous donation from the estate of Howard and Eloise Mulder, founding members of the LSUA Foundation. Recipients of this prestigious award reflect values championed by Howard and Eloise Mulder, excelling in academics, leadership, and community service.

The 2024 Mulder Scholars have established themselves in their communities through volunteering, student organizations, and athletics.

LSUA is delighted to welcome these exceptional students and eagerly anticipates their future contributions within the university and beyond.

LSUA Hosts 30th Annual Black History Month Scholarship Luncheon

LSUA celebrated its 30th Annual Black History Month Scholarship Luncheon with an inspiring keynote address by Katina SemienSmothers, Esquire, Director of Community Programs for the State of Louisiana Office of Programs and Planning. The 2024 Ebony Endowed Scholarship Award was presented to Deitra Jackson, a dedicated Criminal Justice student. The luncheon celebrated diversity and student empowerment and featured moving musical performances by the St. Matthew Baptist Church Ensemble.

L-R: 2024 Mulder Scholars - Abdul Hadi, Jaycie O’Conner, Leah Buller, Canaan Hoosier

5,405 Students FOR SPRING 2024

LSUA continues its rise as the fastest-growing public university in Louisiana, with Spring 2024 enrollment reaching an all-time high of 5,405 students. This momentous achievement represents a 35.5% increase over the last year, solidifying LSUA’s position as a university of choice. This surge in enrollment follows the university’s success in surpassing its growth targets and reaching 5,000 students for Fall 2023, two years early.

Spring 2024’s enrollment growth of an additional 5.9% since this fall semester marks a significant milestone for LSUA. It is the first time spring enrollment has exceeded fall figures since the university became a fouryear institution two decades ago. LSUA’s ability to buck the national trend of declining enrollment demonstrates its resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to student success and excellence.

Contributing to this growth is the substantial rise in LSUA’s online program enrollments, which have seen a 58.7% increase, bringing the total to 2,727 online students. On-campus numbers are also robust, with a 17.6% increase from Spring 2023, reflecting a total on-campus student body of 2,677. This diverse group of scholars represents all 50 states and 24 countries, enhancing LSUA’s reputation as a transformative educational institution.

LSUA’s exceptional 90% retention rate was key to this success, highlighting the university’s student engagement, vibrant campus activities, and support systems. Such initiatives build a sense of community to ensure students complete their degree paths at LSUA. LSUA will continue to provide affordable, high-quality education that positively impacts students and the community as it continues to grow and evolve.

All 64 Parishes All 50 States 24 Countries

COMMUNITY DRIVEN Education

LSUA’s Strategic Approach to Career-Focused Academics

LSUA is at the forefront of aligning academic programs with the evolving demands of the workforce. The university combines advanced technology, career-focused education, and collaboration with community partners to drive innovation, stimulate economic growth, and create positive social impact across the state. To directly address critical workforce shortages, LSUA has partnered with multiple universities and organizations to launch programs that provide top-tier educational experiences to prepare graduates for immediate success.

Recognizing the importance of technology in the modern workplace, LSUA has significantly expanded its technological capabilities. Students can now access cutting-edge tools like virtual reality (VR), drones, cybersecurity technologies, and a makerspace equipped with 3D printers and laser-cutting machines.

The investment in technology modernizes the learning environment and ensures students are well-prepared for the technological demands of their future careers. The university’s practical, experiential learning was recently demonstrated at its Admitted Students Day, where 170 incoming freshmen participated in mock classes and special interest programs. These initiatives bridge the gap between academic preparation and professional employment, highlighting the importance of adapting classroom learning to real-world scenarios.

LSUA & LSU Announce New Pre-Engineering Degree Program

LSUA and LSU have forged a new partnership, offering students a streamlined path to an engineering degree. The pre-engineering program allows students to complete their foundational coursework and earn an Associate of Science in Engineering at LSUA before seamlessly transferring to LSU to finish with a Bachelor of Science. This partnership will provide central Louisiana students access to high-demand engineering careers while retaining them within the LSU system.

This collaboration offers a structured academic trajectory, including advising support, to help students excel. By starting at LSUA, students benefit from smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning environment before specializing during their final three years at LSU.

To qualify, students must complete the required pre-engineering coursework, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, and satisfy collegelevel math and English requirements. Upon completion, students gain guaranteed admission to LSU to pursue majors in chemical, civil, computer science, electrical, or industrial engineering.

LSUA Unveils Innovative Interdisciplinary Pre-Med Program to Strengthen Local Healthcare

LSUA unveiled its new Interdisciplinary Pre-Med Program (IPP) to bolster healthcare accessibility across the state. This initiative features partnerships with LSU Health Sciences Centers in New Orleans and Shreveport, ensuring a top-tier pre-med education and guaranteed medical school admissions interviews. The IPP offers an affordable path to a medical career to offset the financial hurdles often associated with pre-medical studies. The university’s low undergraduate tuition and potential eligibility for LSU’s rural medicine scholarship create an accessible route for aspiring physicians.

The partnerships with LSUHSC-New Orleans and LSUHSC-Shreveport provide students with exceptional academic and professional development opportunities. The program will prepare students for the unique aspects of rural medicine with tailored advising, practical experiences, and priority access to workshops and seminars.

LSUA and LSU School of Veterinary Medicine Forge New Pathways for Aspiring Rural Veterinarians

LSUA has forged a new partnership with the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine to address the critical need for veterinarians specializing in rural, agricultural, and livestock medicine. The agreement establishes an early admission pathway for up to ten LSUA graduates annually, provided they meet specific criteria focused on a commitment to rural practice. This initiative aims to cultivate a pipeline of dedicated veterinarians through enhanced undergraduate experiences and mentorship.

The partnership prioritizes hands-on experience in food animal and production medicine. Collaborations with the LSU College of Agriculture, LSU AgCenter, and the School of Veterinary Medicine will provide mentorship and a strong educational foundation. Prospective participants must be high school seniors involved in FFA or 4-H programs and residents of rural Louisiana. Candidates should demonstrate significant hands-on experience with food animals, veterinary medicine, or production medicine and be interested in pursuing a career in rural animal medicine or food animal production medicine.

L-R: Susan Bowers (LSUA Interim Chair of Biological Sciences), Jessica Ringo (LSUA Chair of Chemistry and Physics), Nathan Sammons (LSUA Interim Dean of Natural Sciences & Mathematics), Purujit Gurjar (LSUA Assistant Professor of Chemistry), Christof Stumpf (Professor of Biological Sciences), Zebulon Bell (LSUA Assistant Professor of Psychology), Prakash Ghimire (LSUA Chair of Mathematics & Computer Science), Zeleke Negatu (LSUA Professor of Biology)

L-R: Oliver Garden (LSU Dean of Veterinary Medicine), LSU VetMed Students, Susan Bowers (LSUA Interim Chair of Biological Sciences), Elizabeth Beard (LSUA Provost & Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs), Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor)

L-R: Elizabeth Beard (LSUA Provost & Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs), Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor), Roy Haggerty (LSU Provost), Karsten Thompson (LSU Interim Dean of Engineering)

LSUA Opens Small

Business Development Center and Continuing Education Campus Office

LSUA recently celebrated the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for two new initiatives: the LSUA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and the LSUA Continuing Education & Community Outreach office. These programs, led by directors Evelyn Jones and Alisha Ferrington, will support economic development and provide workforce training opportunities across Central Louisiana. The SBDC, which relocated to LSUA’s campus, will continue collaborating with the Central LA Regional Chamber of Commerce to assist small businesses by offering guidance, resources, and consulting services to enhance their growth and success. The Continuing Education & Community Outreach office will provide diverse educational programs, from professional development courses to community enrichment offerings. These initiatives will drive regional economic growth and workforce development.

100% of LSUA School of Nursing

Recent Graduates Passed the NCLEX National Licensure Examination

The LSUA School of Nursing achieved a flawless 100% first-time pass rate on the Fall 2023 National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). This achievement marks the second time in six years that an entire LSUA cohort has passed the NCLEX on their initial attempt, surpassing the 2023 national average of 79.2%. LSUA is proud of the graduates’ commitment, especially with the challenges of the new NCLEX format. Their success is also attributed to the faculty and leadership who devoted themselves to training compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals.

LSUA Career Center Announces Partnership with Interstride to Facilitate Job Placement for International Students

The LSUA Career Center has forged a new partnership with Interstride, a platform designed to support the career aspirations of international students. LSUA students can now access the Interstride platform, which streamlines the job search process and connects them with employers seeking their skills. Interstride also offers career resources like resume assistance and US immigration guidance. LSUA students have praised the platform’s user-friendly design and helpful job notifications.

Evelyn Jones (SBDC Louisiana Director)

LSUA & U.S. Department of Defense at Fort Johnson

Launch Starbase Program

LSUA has partnered with the U.S. Department of Defense at Fort Johnson to launch Starbase, an initiative that provides immersive STEM-focused education for elementary students, emphasizing handson learning and interaction with military personnel. Starbase offers a unique opportunity for students to gain valuable knowledge and real-world experience, sparking their interest in STEM fields. LSUA is proud to facilitate this partnership and its potential to inspire the next generation of innovators.

LSUA Earns 2024-2025 Military Friendly® School Gold Level Designation

LSUA recently announced its designation as a 20242025 Military Friendly® School, earning the Gold level distinction. The Military Friendly® Schools designation process incorporates rigorous datadriven standards, ensuring transparency and promoting positive outcomes for the military community. The university proudly supports military-affiliated students, as evident in initiatives such as securing grants, establishing a Student Veterans of America chapter, and welcoming the Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs to campus.

L-R: Deron Thaxton (LSUA Executive Vice Chancellor for Administration & CFO), Abbey Bain (LSUA Vice Chancellor for Enrollment & Student Engagement), Col. Charlton J. Meginley (Louisiana Secretary of Veteran Affairs), Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor), Elizabeth Beard (LSUA Provost & Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs)

L-R: Elizabeth Beard (LSUA Provost, & Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs), Shedekia Jonson-Willie, Allison Hext (STARBASE LSUA Office Manager), Morgan Blankenbaker, Jessika LaCaze (STARBASE Deputy Director/Instructor) Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor)

LSUA Celebrates 438 Graduates and Distinguished Service Award at Spring Commencement

LSUA hosted family and friends at the Rapides Parish Coliseum on May 16 to celebrate the commencement of 438 graduates, the largest graduating class to date. Mary Leach Werner, Past Chair of the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors, delivered the commencement address. Additionally, the late Mary Boone Treuting, Ph.D., Dean Emeritus of the College of Social Sciences and Professor Emeritus of Psychology, was recognized for her outstanding contributions to LSUA as she posthumously received the prestigious Distinguished Service Award during the ceremony. This esteemed accolade, the highest honor bestowed by the university, celebrates individuals whose dedication has greatly influenced LSUA’s growth and progress.

LSU President William F. Tate IV

Visits LSUA Campus

On May 14, LSUA was honored to host LSU President William F. Tate IV. His visit included an initial meeting with Dr. Coreil, a tour of the LSUA campus, and an open forum to answer questions from faculty, staff, and students. President Tate met with community leaders at the Rotary Club of Alexandria and concluded his visit by attending a reception with distinguished guests from the campus and surrounding communities.

L-R: Elizabeth Beard (LSUA Provost & Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs), Joseph (J.B.) Treuting, Paul Coreil (LSUA Chancellor)

L-R: Jason Droddy (LSU Vice President of Strategy and Public Policy), William F. Tate IV (LSU President)

FROM CLASS to Clinic

Bryleigh Mauthe

Spring 2024 Graduate Associate of Science in Nursing

What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?

I have always wanted to work in healthcare but could not decide on a specific degree. The HOSA Future Nurses Camp showed me that nursing is the healthcare career that does it all. Nursing is a special profession where you can take on roles such as caregiver, educator, researcher, advocate, and more. You can work anywhere, with anyone, and you will never stop learning. We care for people from the time they enter this world until they leave, which is such a special honor.

Could you share your experience attending the university’s first Future Nurses camp?

The camp had wonderful speakers who shared stories that influenced my decision to become a nurse. Both then, as a high school student, and now as a graduate, the staff at LSUA have been incredibly supportive and encouraging.

How has your journey at LSUA prepared you for your career as a registered nurse?

I am grateful for the knowledge and experience that LSUA has given me. LSUA has a fantastic program that pushes students to be their best. The staff connects with the students and provides every opportunity to be successful. They teach you the material, the skills, and, most importantly, compassion. You learn invaluable lessons that will guide your journey as a future nurse and how to treat your patients as if they were your family members.

How do you envision making a difference in the lives of patients?

It’s an honor to be trusted by strangers to care for those they love. I am privileged to have the opportunity to care for all of my patients. I hope to be the nurse who makes a friend when I walk into a patient’s room, the nurse who makes someone’s worst day a little bit better— and the nurse with endless compassion, understanding, and strength for my patients. Finally, I hope to be the nurse who advocates for the patients, even when everyone else looks the other way.

I aspire to work with children who have experienced abuse and domestic violence to bring about a positive change in their treatment. My goal is to educate healthcare professionals on trauma-informed care, so I am determined to do everything to protect our children and ensure a better future for them.

Any advice you’d like to share with aspiring nurses?

To anyone who wants to become a nurse, I encourage you to pursue your dreams. It is never too late to start, regardless of age, background, or situation. Don’t let negativity discourage you from pursuing nursing school. While it may be challenging, the hard work yields great rewards in this fulfilling career.

LSUA’s

2024 Scholar Day Boasts 140 Undergraduate Research Presentations

LSUA’s 6th annual Scholar Day was a resounding success, featuring 140 undergraduate research presentations. This multidisciplinary event celebrates the scholarly achievements and creativity of LSUA students and faculty. Throughout the semester, students collaborated with faculty mentors on research projects spanning diverse fields like nursing, biological sciences, education, psychology, business, and accounting. Community members, faculty, and staff served as judges, evaluating presentations and recognizing outstanding work and mentorship. Scholar Day provides a valuable platform for students to share their research and gain experience in presenting their findings.

LSUA School of Education Hosts 450 Future Educators at 6th Annual Educators Rising Regional Conference

LSUA recently hosted the 6th Annual Educators Rising Regional Conference, welcoming nearly 450 aspiring middle and high school educators. Educators Rising provides a unique platform for students to explore the teaching profession, offering guidance and resources to support their journey from high school to college and beyond. Attendees were inspired by a special address from Louisiana’s 2024 Principal of the Year, Tia Trahan, and engaged in competitions, hands-on activities, and learning sessions led by LSUA faculty and students.

Generals Triumph! LSUA Athletic Teams Score Top Honors in 2024 Red

River Athletic Conference

With an impressive display of athletic excellence, the LSUA Generals had a triumphant season in the Red River Athletic Conference. The basketball, softball, and tennis teams achieved remarkable success thanks to the coaches’ and athletes’ hard work and dedication.

Head Coach Dimario Jackson’s exemplary leadership earned him the well-deserved Coach of the Year title. Under the leadership of first-year Head Jackson, the LSUA Men’s Basketball team captured the championship title for the 2024 Red River Athletic Conference Tournament and Regular Season with a decisive 90-72 victory over the University of the Southwest Mustangs. The electric game saw standout performances from Kashie Natt, who scored 24 points, and JD Allen, contributing 20 points with four three-point shots. Isaiah Howard and Jason Perry also delivered impressive double-digit figures, dominating the rebound battle 38-26. Kashie Natt was named First Team All-Conference, RRAC Player of the Year, Tournament MVP, and now NAIA 1st Team All-American.

The LSUA Women’s Basketball team, guided by Head Coach Billy Perkins, celebrated an equally impressive season, culminating in Perkins being named Coach of the Year. Dannah Martin-Hartwick, a major contributor to the team’s 22-5 record, was honored with a First Team All-Conference and Champions of Character team spot, having achieved 1000 career points in just three seasons. Jewel Jones’ sharpshooting skills earned her a place on the Second Team All-Conference. Benedetta Peracchi and Amani Gray were also recognized, receiving All-Conference Honorable Mention.

The softball team also emerged victorious in the Red River Athletic Conference Tournament, earning the title of Conference Tournament Champions. They matched up against the Saints of OLLU for the championship game after defeating TAMUT. Haley Primrose led the charge, doubling to left field in the first inning to score the game’s first run. The Generals went on to dominate, allowing only two runs throughout the tournament and securing a 6-1 win. Taylor Spencer’s unwavering performance in the circle was key to their success. Haley Fontenot was named Tournament MVP, with Madi Baker, Haley Primrose (MVP Pitcher), Taylor Spencer, and Bailey Layton also receiving All-Tournament honors.

LSUA Tennis senior players Oliva Scattini and Annemart Kleijn stamped their names as All-Americans in their last season. Scattini, also named RRAC Player of the Year, added the accolade of First Team NAIA AllAmerican. Scattini was a dominant force in singles play as she finished the year with an overall record of 15-3. In double, her and doubles partner, Annemart Kleijn, were a dynamic duo, finishing with a doubles record of 18-2. Annemart was also impressive in singles play, as she finished the year 13-4 and had her name called up for Third Team NAIA All-American.

LSUA Generals Become First Recipient of the Rotary Bridge Trophy

The LSUA Generals have become the first-ever recipients of the Rotary Bridge Trophy, an award recognizing athletic dominance in the “Red River Rivalry” against Louisiana Christian University. This new accolade, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Alexandria and crafted by Hayes Manufacturing of Pineville, LA, celebrates athletic excellence within the Red River Athletic Conference. Throughout the 2023-2024 season, the Generals secured nine victories against the Wildcats across various men’s and women’s sports, establishing a dominant lead in this spirited competition. The trophy presentation took place at the Alexandria Rotary meeting on April 23, marking a celebratory milestone for LSUA and reinforcing the growing sports rivalry that highlights the athletic prowess of two rival central Louisiana’s universities competing in the Red River Athletic Conference.