1.2.1 Adoption and Procedures for Regular Review
1.2.2 Institutional History and Purpose
1.2.1. Adoption and Procedures for Regular Review
The current Mission of the University was submitted to the governing board, the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System, and was approved on Feb. 24, 2015.
The Strategic Plan, which includes: Institutional History and Purpose, Vision Statement, Mission Statement, and Values receives a yearly review as part of the on–going strategic planning process. The Planning Advisory Group is responsible for this regular review of the Mission and is also responsible for submitting the Mission for the governing board to review as deemed.
1.2.2 Institutional History and Purpose
Nicholls State University, located in Thibodaux, Louisiana, is a comprehensive, regional institution serving south central Louisiana. Tax supported and coeducational, it first opened its doors September 23, 1948, as Francis T. Nicholls Junior College of Louisiana State University.
In 1956, the Louisiana Legislature separated Nicholls from LSU and authorized it to develop a four–year curriculum. Thus, in September 1956, the former junior college began operation as Francis T. Nicholls State College. It granted its first degrees in May 1958. The University’s name was changed by Act 93 of the State Legislature in 1970 to Nicholls State University.
Nicholls is located in the heart of “Cajun Country,” an area rich in tradition and culture. Its location in the Mississippi River delta allows easy access to the river, its tributaries, coastal wetlands, and the Gulf of Mexico. The 210–acre campus is approximately 50 miles southwest of New Orleans and 60 miles southeast of Baton Rouge.
For more than half a century, Nicholls State University has been the sole provider of higher education in a region with abundant cultural and natural resources. The University’s strong General Education Program prepares students to exercise leadership in a global society and enhances their ability to create a vision for the future. By maintaining a major partnership with local businesses, school systems, community agencies, and other institutions, Nicholls actively participates in the development of the region.
Established along the banks of Bayou Lafourche, in the heart of one of the nation’s major estuaries, Nicholls provides unique opportunities for instruction and research in the fields of Marine and Environmental Science. The University has taken advantage of its strategic location to assume a leadership role in a region with ample resources in agriculture, fishing, petrochemical, and oil field–related industries. As a leader, the University continues to contribute significantly to the growth of the region in regards to new technology, manufacturing, and international trade.
Nicholls maintains a strong commitment to the well being of the people in its region. Through the expansion of Health Science Programs, the University collaborates with a nationally recognized Health Care Industry in the Houma–Thibodaux metropolitan area to meet the needs of its constituents.
1.2.3 Vision Statement
To be the intellectual, economic and cultural heart of the Bayou Region.
1.2.4 Mission Statement
Nicholls State University delivers accredited degree programs and comprehensive learning experiences to prepare students for regional and global professions within a spirited campus environment immersed in Bayou Region culture.
1.2.5 Values
Nicholls State University supports values that promote citizenship, concern for self and others, and the desire for a better world by embracing as its core values:
CIVIC RESPONSIBILITY: We use our time and talents to serve our community.
DIVERSITY: We respect differences among members of society by providing a nurturing and understanding environment.
EXCELLENCE: We strive to achieve the highest quality in all endeavors. We strive for excellence in teaching, research, and service, and empowerment through learning.
INTEGRITY: We strive to be fair and truthful in all circumstances.
LEADERSHIP: We are good stewards and representatives of the University because we value our collective role as a regional leader and model for all we serve.
RESPECTFULNESS: We are committed to the customs and amenities of a civil society. We respect the rights of others and are responsive to the needs and interests of our constituents.
RESPONSIBILITY: We are responsible for our actions. We adhere to the doctrine of individual accountability in all of our activities and contributions.
Imperatives:
- Providing Student Opportunity and Success
- Fostering Innovation
- Increasing Internationalization
- Serving the Needs of the Region
1.2.6 Clientele
Nicholls State University serves a diverse population of traditional and non–traditional students, as well as professional, social, and cultural groups who contribute to the University and benefit from our quality educational services.
1.2.7 Comparative Advantage
The principle of “Excellence in Education with a Personal Touch” has become embedded into the University’s culture. This principle promotes an academic and social environment where students interact with caring faculty and staff and receive individualized attention.
1.2.8 Strategic Goals
In an effort to fulfill its mission, the following strategic goals have been developed:
- Increase the level of educational attainment for students.
- Cultivate research that engages faculty and students seeking knowledge in areas of common interest.
- Achieve greater accountability, efficiency, and effectiveness across campus.
- Continue the University’s collaboration with business, education, and service entities to meet regional workforce needs and to provide cultural enrichment and service to the community.
- Invest strategically in university employees to enhance customer service and sense of pride in the University.
Changes to Section of Manual
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