THIBODAUX, La. — Nicholls State University has named the press box at John L. Guidry Stadium in honor of former Nicholls quarterback and successful business executive Cooper Collins.
The C.C. Collins Press Box recognizes the Nicholls graduate’s college and professional achievements as well as his ongoing financial support to the Colonel Athletic Association.
“We want our student-athletes to be champions on the field, in the classroom and ultimately in their future profession,” said Nicholls President Bruce Murphy. “Cooper Collins is the prime example of a Colonel who turned his student-athlete experience into a successful business career. We are incredibly proud of his accomplishments and grateful for his continued support of Nicholls athletics, which will impact Nicholls students for generations to come.”
The naming was unveiled, and Collins was honored during the Homecoming week game against Stephen F. Austin.
“I have always believed that you need to step up when other people can’t. I love my alma mater, and I love what Coach Tim Rebowe is doing,” Collins said. “It’s humbling to know that I have the opportunity to give back and leave a legacy for my family.”
Collins earned his bachelor’s in mass communication in 2002 and his master’s in business administration in 2003, both from Nicholls. He joined Pernix Therapeutics Holdings upon graduation and five years later was promoted to CEO, where he guided the company to a more than 800 percent increase in sales. In 2010, Collins was invited to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange and in 2013 at NASDAQ. He is now a hedge fund manager for MagnaSci Ventures while serving as chairman and CEO of Fortis BioPharma in Houston.
Collins is married to Nicholls graduate Stacey Barbaro Collins, and they have two children, Colson Cooper and Carsyn Carleigh, whose initials inspired the “C.C.” on the press box.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 15, 2016
CONTACT: Jacob Batte, Media Relations and Publications Coordinator, 985.448.4141 or jacob.batte@www.nicholls.edu
