THIBODAUX, La. — Shipbuilding magnate and philanthropist Donald “Boysie” Bollinger will receive an honorary doctorate of commerce from Nicholls State University on Saturday during the university’s 103rd Commencement Ceremony.
The former Chairman and CEO of Bollinger Enterprises, Bollinger is a passionate advocate for education. He serves as the chairman of the Nicholls Foundation Board and, along with sisters Charlotte and Andrea, donated the first $1 million endowment in Nicholls history in 1997. He has also served on the Louisiana Board of Regents and the University of Louisiana System Board of Trustees.
“Nicholls State University is the heartbeat of the Bayou Region. Their continued growth and success is imperative to the future of this community and our state,” Bollinger said. “Throughout my professional career, I have been fortunate to work with Nicholls alumni and students, and each time I have been amazed by their preparation, their dedication and the impact they have on their community. To receive an honorary doctorate from Nicholls is one of the highlights of my life.”
The Lockport native has been an influential figure in South Louisiana – Nola.com named him one of the 300 people who make New Orleans New Orleans – and he has served on numerous boards, including chairing the National World War II Museum board when the museum opened in 2000. The National World War II Museum recently honored Bollinger by naming their latest project after him, The Bollinger Canopy of Peace.
Bollinger has been named a Louisiana Legend by Louisiana Public Broadcasting, and he received the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Boy Scouts of America, the C. Alvin Bertel Award from the Port of New Orleans and the Alexander Hamilton Award from the National Coast Guard Museum Association.
“There is no one that better embodies South Louisiana’s ingenuity, work ethic and generosity than Boysie Bollinger,” said Dr. Jay Clune, Nicholls president. “He is a passionate advocate for Nicholls State University and for higher education in Louisiana. He is a living legend in industry and philanthropy. Our graduates can look to Mr. Bollinger for inspiration as they set forth on the next chapter of their lives. It is with great honor that we bestow him with this honorary doctorate.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dec. 14, 2018
CONTACT: Jacob Batte, Media Relations and Publications Coordinator, 985.448.4141 or jacob.batte@www.nicholls.edu
