Dear Scholars, Educators, and Friends,

Welcome to the Academic Summit—a celebration of the pursuit of knowledge, the power of discovery, and the transformative impact of education. On behalf of the University of Louisiana System, it is my honor to recognize the extraordinary achievements of our students and the faculty who mentor, challenge, and inspire them.

Over the next two days, you will experience firsthand the brilliance, resilience, and commitment to excellence that define our UL System. Within our nine universities, learning is more than an academic exercise—it is a calling. It is the bridge between ideas and impact, between curiosity and creation. The projects showcased—spanning research, service-learning, visual arts, and the performing arts—are powerful testaments to the spirit of innovation that drives our students and faculty.

Each presentation is more than just a demonstration of academic rigor; it is evidence of how education changes lives and communities. Our students are not just learning—they are leading, solving real-world problems, and leaving an indelible mark on society. They remind us that knowledge is not meant to be kept in books but put into action, serving as a force for good.

I encourage you to immerse yourself in the ideas being shared, engage in the conversations that will shape tomorrow, and take inspiration from the dedication and talent that surrounds you. Though I am unable to join you in person, I have no doubt that these two days will be filled with moments of celebration, growth, and renewed purpose.

May this Academic Summit serve as a catalyst for future collaborations, deeper connections, and continued excellence in all that we do. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey.

Sincerely,
Rick Gallot
President and CEO
University of Louisiana System

Dear Scholars, Faculty, and Guests:

Welcome to the Universities of Louisiana Academic Summit! It is a true honor for Nicholls State University to host this gathering of outstanding students, dedicated faculty, and academic leaders from across our great state. This summit celebrates scholarship, innovation, and collaboration—all defining characteristics of the University of Louisiana System and its nine institutions.

This event allows faculty and students to showcase their research, creative endeavors, and academic achievements while engaging with peers and mentors from diverse disciplines. The work presented here today reflects the dedication and talent that will shape the future of Louisiana and beyond.

At Nicholls State University, we take great pride in being the intellectual, economic, and cultural heart of the Louisiana Coastal Community, and we hope you get to experience that during your time at the Academic Summit. From the research at the new Coastal Center to the efforts to preserve our culture at the Center for Bayou Studies and the cuisine of the Chef John Folse Culinary Institute, nowhere is it more apparent that Nicholls is the hub for preserving the South Louisiana way of life. 

Please take full advantage of the sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities throughout the summit. Engage with fellow participants, explore new perspectives, and be inspired by the shared wealth of knowledge. Our collective commitment to academic excellence strengthens our universities and the communities we serve.

On behalf of Nicholls State University, I extend my gratitude to all who have contributed to making this summit possible. To our presenters, mentors, and organizers—thank you for your hard work and commitment to higher education. I hope you enjoy your time on our beautiful campus and leave with renewed enthusiasm for your academic pursuits.

Best wishes for a successful and enriching summit!

• Download the ULS Academic Summit Art Exhibition Entry Form
• Download the Exhibition Loan Agreement
• Download the Arts Exhibition Guidelines 2025

-Please email completed forms to Michael Williams (michael.williams@nicholls.edu)

Hampton Inn Thibodaux

826 North Canal Blvd., Thibodaux, LA

45 rooms with 2 Queen Beds & 20 rooms with 1 King Bed

$129 plus tax for both room types

Reservation Cutoff Date: Wednesday, March 26th

Contact Person: Christine Paxton, Director of Sales

Contact E-mail: Christine.Paxton@hilton.com

Contact Phone: 985-446-0900

TO BOOK: 

Your guests may call the hotel at 985-446-0900 and ask for a room with the group code 5UL or ULS 2025 Academic Summit. They may also book online.

GROUP BOOKING LINK –

https://group.hamptoninn.com/9vv5lz

____________________________________________________________________________

Holiday Inn Express Thibodaux

122 Emporium Avenue, Thibodaux, LA

30 rooms with 2 Queen Beds & 20 rooms with 1 King Bed

$129 plus tax for both room types

Reservation Cutoff Date: Thursday, March 27^th

2025 ULS Academic Summit Booking Link 

Contact Person: Chris Couvillion, GM

Contact E-mail: ChristopherC@HIExpressThibodaux.com

Contact phone: 985-278-0785