THIBODAUX – A host of facility enhancements welcomed students of Nicholls State University on Wednesday, Aug. 17 – the first class day of the fall 2011 semester.
“Whether they are returning to campus after a summer break or embarking on their first semester at Nicholls, they are coming to a campus that is significantly different and decidedly better than it was just last May,” Dr. Stephen T. Hulbert, university president, said.
The improvements and repairs, all designed to enhance students’ college experience, are funded via various sources that are dedicated solely for campus projects:
- Jazzman’s Coffee Shop – Located on the corner across the street from Gouaux and Ayo halls, the new facility will serve as a gathering place for students seeking refreshment. A drive-up window is available as well.
- New Quadrangle Patios – With one patio in front of Shaver Gym and the other between Beauregard and Peltier halls, students will have new options for relaxation between classes.
- Ayo Pool – The facility reopened in July and will remain open until Oct. 1. Improvements include a new liner as well as upgrades to the pump, motor and electrical system.
- Peltier Auditorium – Added technology will enhance classes held in the facility. The auditorium and new foyer will also be able to host various cultural and social events.
- Ellender and Calecas Halls – A new air conditioning system will provide comfort for Ellender residents, and new windows have been installed at Calecas.
Chief among Nicholls’ pending projects is the Harold J. Callais Memorial Recreation Center, which is scheduled to open in August 2012. Both intramural football and soccer fields will be ready for fall 2011 action, with lights for evening games to accommodate more students. The two softball fields will be ready for action the following spring, also with lights for nighttime games. Those interested in following the facility’s construction can watch the progress at www.nicholls.edu/recreation/photos.
In addition to physical projects, Nicholls students were introduced to nearly 40 new faculty members in 16 academic departments. Some hail from Louisiana, but many have come to Thibodaux from as far away as Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia and Texas.
