Long Purple Line

Antoon was one of Northwestern State’s most loyal supporters. In 1975, Antoon opened his bar, which became a Natchitoches establishment for generations of Northwestern State students. In 1981, he opened the Student Body. Antoon also owned two restaurants, Monjuni’s and Antoon’s Riverfront Restaurant. Each of his businesses employed many NSU students who earned money to pay for college expenses and gained valuable experience which helped them get a job after college. Many of those students worked for Antoon for most of their time in college. Antoon was noted for always finding a way to help a student who needed a job. 

In 2008 on his 65th birthday, Antoon’s friends and family created the Johnny Antoon Scholarship to assist Northwestern students. Each year, a weekend of activities including a golf tournament to raise funds to enhance the scholarship fund which has awarded more than $100,000 to NSU students. The endowment has grown to more than $110,000. 

Antoon started summer school after graduating from high school but joined the Army a few weeks later. He returned to Northwestern after being discharged and earned a Bachelor Arts in Health and Physical Education in 1968 and a Master of Arts in History in 1972. Antoon also taught history at NSU. He passed away in 2015. 

Bernard, a life-long resident of Natchitoches Parish, has represented District 31 in the Louisiana Senate for the past four years. He serves as vice-chair of the Senate Insurance Committee in addition to other committee assignments.

Bernard graduated from Natchitoches High School and earned a degree in political science and history from Northwestern State in 1973. He began his public service work with the Natchitoches Parish Police Jury where he worked 16 years as purchasing agent, assistant secretary-treasurer and then as administrator. Bernard was elected clerk of court for Natchitoches Parish in 1991. Prior to his retirement from the clerk’s office in 2016, he was an active member of the Louisiana Clerks of Court Association, having served a member of the board of directors, secretary, treasurer, vice-president, and was one of only two state clerks to serve as president of this organization twice.

In addition to his public service, Bernard has been involved in numerous civic activities. They include chair of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, chair of the Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival, president of the Natchitoches Rotary Club, board of directors of the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, chair of the Administrative Board of the First United Methodist Church, and a member of the board of directors of City Bank & Trust Company.

Kyzar was elected to the Third Circuit Court of Appeal in 2016 from Third Circuit District 1, which includes the eight northernmost parishes of the 21 parish Circuit Court of Appeal and assumed office January 1, 2017.  

Kyzar served as district attorney for the 10th Judicial District for 20 years beginning in 1997 until his election to the court. After his initial election in 1996, he was elected three more times, without opposition. He served as an assistant district attorney for 12 years before he was elected district attorney. He was chosen by his peers to serve as president of the Louisiana District Attorneys Association in 2003 and was elected to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees for the Louisiana District Attorneys Retirement System in 2008 until his retirement as district attorney in November 2016. During his tenure as district attorney, he also served as a member of the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory Commission. 

A 1979 graduate of Northwestern State with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Kyzar was a three-year starter on the defensive line for the Demons football team. He graduated from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 1982 with his Juris Doctorate degree and spent 20 years as the senior partner in a private law firm engaged in the practice of civil law. 

Kyzar has been featured for his work as an attorney and district attorney on national television broadcasts Inside Edition, Unsolved Mysteries, Investigation Discovery network’s “Deadly Sins”, Oxygen network’s “Snapped”, and on the ESPN “30 for 30 Short” episode “Delaney” about the life and career of NSU and Kansas City Chiefs great running back Joe Delaney. He is a frequent speaker at legal education seminars, on topics including recent developments, criminal law and practice and professionalism. 

Stephenson has been a member of the faculty at Southern University Law Center since 2004. She was an adjunct faculty member at Southern and at the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at LSU.

Stephenson is active in state and local bar associations. She has been a member of the editorial board for the Louisiana Bar Journal since 1999 and serves as the recent developments editor. She was named 2014 Distinguished Law Professor by the Louisiana Bar Foundation. She was elected to the Baton Rouge Bar Association board of directors in 2004, served five terms on the board, and held every office, including serving as president in 2012.

Stephenson received her juris doctorate from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center in 1984, where she was a member of the Louisiana Law Review and Order of the Coif. She was inducted into the Paul M. Hebert Law Center Hall of Fame in 1987. She received her B.A. with honors from Northwestern State in 1976, where she was inducted into Phi Kappa Phi, Purple Jackets and the Political Science Honor Society.

After receiving her law degree, Stephenson served as a law clerk to U.S. District Judge Frank J. Polozola from 1984-1986. She worked as a law clerk and research attorney for Judge Melvin Shortess of the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal from 1986 to 1988 and 1991 to 2000. She then was promoted to the court’s Administrative General Counsel, where she served until joining SULC. From 1988 to 1991 she also practiced corporate and insurance defense and was director of litigation for the firm that became known as Henchey, Verbois & Hackenberg.

Chester earned a bachelors in wildlife management in 1967 and a masters in student personnel services in 1969.  While at Northwestern, Tommy met his wife, the former Cynthia (Cindy) Thomas.

He served in the U.S. Air Force. Chester was a teacher in Red River and DeSoto parishes and director of Student Activities at Louisiana College and Louisiana Tech. He started a successful career with State Farm Insurance beginning in 1977 in Arcadia. As an agent, Chester has won numerous awards.  Early in his career he was named a Travel Agent and was as an Honors Agent multiple times throughout his career.  He has also been named as a Select Agent.

His community service includes serving as president of the Arcadia Jaycees and Arcadia Lions Club.

Chester joined the NSU Alumni Association Board of Directors in the 1980s, and later became vice-president, and president; serving in that role for 10 consecutive years.  He holds the distinction as the longest serving president in Alumni Association history.  He has also been a member of the NSU Athletic Association Board of Directors.  Tommy and Cindy Chester   established the Doris G. Chester Scholarship through the Gallaspy Family College of Education.

Chester initiated an award for NSU faculty which is now the Excellence in Teaching Award. The honor is presented to a faculty member from each academic college during the fall semester.   He worked with the late President Dr. Randall Webb in the late 1990s to gain student support to fund construction of the Randall J. Webb Wellness and Recreation Center.

Cox has served as mayor of Coushatta since 2012 after serving on the town council. He earned a bachelor’s in industrial technology at NSU where he was Student Government Association president for two years and was the student representative of the Board of Trustees for State Colleges and Universities and SGA representative to the Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce. He was in the ROTC program where he received the ROTC Academic Achievement Award, the Exceptional Performance Award, a Certificate of Appreciation and a Certificate of Proficiency. He attended ROTC Advanced Camp, receiving an Advance Camp Completion Award and completed the U.S. Army Infantry Airborne Course.

His academic honors included membership in Blue Key National Honor Fraternity, the National Honorary Dean’s List, Presidential Academic Award, Who’s Who Among American Colleges and Universities and the Natchitoches Outstanding Community Work Award.

He later earned a master’s degree in biblical studies and a doctorate of ministry from the Institute for Teaching God’s Word and a doctorate of theology, a doctorate of divinity and a doctorate of philosophy from the Minnesota Graduate of Theology. Cox has been a pastor for more than 30 years.

Cox served in the U.S. Army and Louisiana Army National Guard. He was chief executive officer of Winnfield Funeral Home and Winnfield Holding Company. Cox was a sheriff’s deputy with the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office and vice president-chairman of the executive board of the Louisiana Youth Outreach Commission. The Louisiana Legislature passed a resolution in 2013 commending Cox for his work on behalf of the people of Red River Parish.

Dunahoe was appointed by Governor John Bel Edwards to the Board of Supervisors for University of Louisiana   System in 2016 and continues to serve on the management board which oversees Northwestern State and eight other state institutions. In that role, she served on the system search committee for the     selection of three presidents of Northwestern State. Dunahoe served on the Onward Louisiana, Higher Education Transition Committee.

She was president of the Northwestern State University Foundation during Northwestern’s first capital campaign which began with a goal of $18.84 million and raised $32 million to enhance the institution. Dunahoe chaired the  nomination and governance committee and was also secretary and vice president. She currently holds executive committee position of past president. In 2021, Dunahoe was honored with the Northwestern State University Distinguished Alumna Service Award.

Dunahoe is chair and chief executive officer of the Mary R. Gallaspy Charitable Trust #2, a multi-million dollar Trust consisting of real estate, oil and gas interests and other securities, managed for the purpose of awarding academic scholarships to Northwestern State students.

In her career, Dunahoe has been active in community service. She was president of the Prudhomme-Rouquier House Foundation during the time the organization received a $366,000 Save America’s Treasure’s Grant for the restoration of its 1790 property located in the Natchitoches Historic Landmark District. As a member of First Baptist Church of Natchitoches, she co-chaired the church’s $2.5 million restoration project.

Hildebrand has had a seven-decade affiliation with NSU as a two-sport athlete, head basketball coach, athletics director, AD emeritus and an NCAA regional basketball officials advisor.

Hildeband earned a bachelors and masters degree from Northwestern. He was head men’s basketball coach from 1965-1980 and director of placement from 1980-1983. He returned to the athletic program as athletic director from 1983-1996.

As men’s basketball coach, he led the Demons to the NAIA Playoffs for four consecutive years and won back-to-back conference championships in 1973-74 and 1974-75. He assisted with the training camp of the 1972 United States Olympic Team at the invitation of legendary coach Henry Iba. Hildebrand led the basketball program into Division I, taking the team through its first four seasons at the highest level of competition.

While serving as athletic director, he helped guide the Demon athletic program into the Gulf Star Conference and later the Southland Conference. Hildebrand was selected to serve on numerous NCAA committees including the Division 1-AA football selection panel. One of Hildebrand’s trademarks as athletic director was using interns to supplement a small administrative staff. Among those who began their professional careers as interns for Hildebrand at NSU include Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey and Greg Burke, who succeeded Hildebrand as NSU’s athletic director and served in the position for 25 years.

Hildebrand was named Mr. Louisiana Basketball in 1981 and is a member of the Louisiana Basketball Hall of Fame. He was inducted into the N Club Hall of Fame in 1985 and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. The Southland Conference inducted him into its Hall of Honor in 1999.

Jones has long record of public service in education, non-profit organizations and law enforcement.  She earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from NSU and a master’s in student personnel services. Jones worked 15 years at NSU initially as an admission counselor and recruiter and served as counselor with first the Louisiana Scholars College class. She moved into the position as director of TRIO: Student Support Services and Retention Coordinator, Freshman Connection and New Student Programs.

In 1998, Jones became chief professional officer of Boys and Girls Club of Natchitoches, obtaining more than $1 million in funding from local, state and regional agencies and foundations to establish and enhance programming for local youth and families. In 2000, she was named J. Richard Ullom Rookie of the Year for Professional Excellence by the Boys and Girls of America at the Regional Conference. She served on local, state and regional boards and committees.

In 2005, accepted a position with Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office as a grant writer and community outreach coordinator. That evolved into the establishment of a Community Services Division and Jones served as division chief. Over eight years the Division was successful in targeting the needs of youth and families through programs that helped the people of Natchitoches Parish.

Jones is a member of NSU Alumni Association, board member, emeritus, and has served on the Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, chaired the Children and Youth Planning Board, Organizing Member-Vice Regent for Daughters of the American Revolution, member of the St. Augustine Historical Society, and vice president of the Association for Preservation of Historic Natchitoches.  She is married to Emery Jones, has a daughter Kristy and resides in Isle Brevelle on the family farm.

Treadway is chief executive officer of Ford Credit Europe. He has had a broad, global career with increasing responsibilities over the past 28 years. His assignments have provided experience in board management, strategy, business planning and analysis, policy and procedure development, pricing, marketing, brand management, forecasting, budgeting, quality and productivity control, securitization support and government relations. Treadway also has experience in regulatory oversight and management, operational, commercial and consumer risk management, supplier management, operational oversight and compliance, customer servicing/satisfaction/fair treatment, an ability to manage large teams, employee development/training and succession planning and IT acumen.

He originally moved to London as Ford Credit Europe executive director marketing and sales after serving as Ford Motor Credit Company’s vice president for North American Business Center Operations upon returning to the United States. Treadway spent nearly seven years in China as president of Ford Automotive Finance China, regional operations director, and business development manager for Ford Credit Asia Pacific. His career with Ford Motor Credit began as a customer service representative in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Treadway advanced through a number of roles within the branch, regional, central office and business center functions within Ford Credit in Florida, Texas, Michigan, and South Carolina  before moving overseas.

An Alexandria native, Treadway earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from NSU in 1992 team and a Master of Business Administration from Texas Christian University in 2004.  He was a 4-year letterman for the Demon football team, two-time All-Southland Conference tight-end and named one of the 13 honorary captains on the Demons all-century team in the 2007 centennial celebration as a tribute to his leadership and value to his teams.  He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.  Treadway served as director of the Demons Unlimited Foundation (DUF) and a member of the Executive Committee until October 2021.  He was also a co-founder of the Northwestern State University Black Alumni Alliance that was established in 2009.

Smith is president and chief executive officer of FedEx Freight, the market leader in the less-than-truckload (LTL) industry. He also serves on the Strategic Management Committee of FedEx Corporation, which sets the direction for the FedEx enterprise. FedEx Corporation employs more than 450,000 team members worldwide and uses nearly 700 airplanes and 189,000 motorized vehicles to deliver 15 million shipments every day in more than 220 countries.  FedEx Corporation reported $69 billion in revenue in Fiscal Year 2019.

Smith has more than 30 years of experience in the transportation industry and joined FedEx in 2000. As CEO, he provides strategic direction for all FedEx Freight operations throughout North America.

Prior to his current role, Smith most recently served as the senior vice president of operations for FedEx Freight. His experience spans every area of the business, including operations, sales, transportation, fleet maintenance, facility services and safety.

Smith serves on the boards of the Arkansas Trucking Association and the American Transportation Research Institute and was named treasurer of the board for the American Trucking Associations in October 2019. He graduated from Northwestern State University with a degree in geology.

Smith was a four-year starter on the Demon football team as an offensive tackle. He was a two-time All-Louisiana selection and a pre-season All-Gulf Star Conference choice. He was the winner of the Demon Award given to the outstanding offensive lineman.

Whitehead was a member of Northwestern State’s faculty for 30 years, serving as an associate professor of journalism and director of International Programs. He served as an advisor for various student media, providing training to students preparing for a professional career. He also oversaw the university’s Distinguished Lecture Series, which brought numerous leading figures to campus.

A strong advocate for preserving Northwestern State’s history, Whitehead co-authored the book “Northwestern State University at 125” which was published in 2009. He led efforts to make the university’s past more accessible through its Traditions website, which showcases digital collections of the university’s student newspaper, yearbook and alumni magazine and information on alumni honorees, past presidents and historic campus buildings.

Whitehead worked as a production location consultant for the film “Steel Magnolias.” He also worked as a local contact and executive assistant to the film’s producer Ray Stark. Whitehead was a co-author of the “Steel Magnolias Scrapbook.”

One of the leading experts on Natchitoches Parish artist Clementine Hunter, Whitehead worked on documentaries and co-authored and edited books about Hunter.

He is active in local historic preservation organizations and served on the Louisiana Film and Video Commission, the board of directors of Friends of Louisiana Public Broadcasting and the national advisory council of Kappa Alpha Order social fraternity. He is a member of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi and the Honor Society of Phi Eta Sigma.

Since retiring from NSU, he was worked as a governmental affairs and special events consultant.

Upon graduation from Northwestern State College, where he earned his bachelor's degree in accounting, Marcus moved to Monroe. In the summer of 1963, he began his career in public accounting with a local CPA firm.  After working for that firm for seven years, he opened his practice in 1970. After about 10 years, he partnered with fellow Northwestern State alumnus John Robinson to form Marcus, Robinson and Hassell which has offices in Monroe and Winnsboro.

Marcus has been involved in a number of successful business ventures throughout Louisiana and Arkansas which include healthcare companies, restaurants, commercial and residential development and management.

Marcus has supported NSU for decades and has served on numerous boards and committees that enhance the university, including the NSU Foundation Board, The Mary R. Gallaspy Trust No. 2 Board and the College of Business and Technology Advisory Board. He has also been honored as a member of the NSU College of Business Hall of Fame.

Marcus is active in state and national professional organizations, including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants. In 2019, he received the certificate of recognition for 50-years loyal membership in the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants.

He has supported and donated to countless athletic and academic programs at NSU over the years, including establishing a faculty endowed professorship, and joined NSU alumni Bill Tilley, Bill Stokes and Joe Singletary in establishing a four-year endowed scholarship through the NSU Foundation.

Orgeron led LSU to the BCS National Championship and a 15-0 record this past season. He was named National Coach of the Year by Walter Camp, Eddie Robinson and the Associated Press. He was also selected as the SEC Coach of the Year. Orgeron’s staff and team included the winner of the 2019 Broyles Award as nation’s top assistant coach, the Heisman Trophy winner, winner of the Biletnikoff Award given to the outstanding receiver and the Jim Thorpe Award presented to the top defensive back. LSU set a school-record with five first team All-America selections in 2019. LSU’s offensive line claimed the Joe Moore Award as the top offensive line in college football.

Orgeron is LSU’s 33rd head football coach, and the first Louisiana native to serve as head coach of the Tigers in more than 30 years. Orgeron has a 40-9 record at LSU. Orgeron was a defensive lineman for the NSU Demons and earned a degree in 1985. His coaching career began as a graduate assistant at Northwestern State and McNeese State. Orgeron was an assistant strength coach at Arkansas then worked as an assistant coach at Miami (Florida), Nicholls, Syracuse and Southern Cal, acquiring a reputation as one of the top defensive line coaches and recruiters in college football. He was head coach at the University of Mississippi for three years, then was on the staff of New Orleans Saints and the University of Tennessee before returning to Southern Cal. Orgeron joined the LSU coaching staff in 2015.

Recruited to Northwestern in 1957 as a football trainer, Pierce was a four-year letterman in that position. As a student, he was an N Club officer and sports editor of the university newspaper.

He joined the staff of The Times-Picayune in New Orleans after receiving his journalism degree in 1961 and became executive sports editor at age 24.

Pierce returned to Northwestern in 1965 as Sports Information Director.  He later served as News Bureau Director and assistant to the president and has been vice president of External Affairs for more than 30 years.

He was co-chair of Northwestern’s Centennial celebration and 125th anniversary activities and has served as institutional representative to the NCAA and Southland Conference.  He is a former president of the conference and was Northwestern’s liaison for the filming of “Steel Magnolias.”

Pierce brought the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame to Natchitoches in 1972 and directed the program for nearly 20 years.  During that time, he was named one of the 20 “Most Influential People in Sports in Louisiana” by The Times-Picayune.

Author of thousands of newspaper and magazine articles and a book of columns and co-editor of two other books, Pierce has received numerous journalism awards and honors for other civic, social and professional activities.

He has been inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and N Club Hall of Fame.

Pierce and his wife Regina have established endowed scholarships in athletics and education at NSU.  Together, they have four children, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Boutte has a broad range of experience spanning postsecondary financial aid for traditional and non-traditional populations, K-12, higher education, government and private industry. She has held several high-level positions in Louisiana state agencies. Since 2013, she has been executive director of the Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance, managing an annual budget of almost $400 million. Boutte provides oversight of statewide college access and financial aid initiatives aimed at promoting, preparing for and providing college access to students and families including the Taylor Opportunity for Students Program (TOPS) and the Louisiana Go Grants. She previously served as the office’s deputy executive director, chief operations officer and chief research and planning officer.

Boutte has served as assistant secretary of the Office of Workforce Development and workforce planning executive consultant with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. She was also an education instruction specialist for IBM.

At Northwestern State, Boutte was director and founder of the Technology Training Institute, director of the Office of Public Service and coordinator of non-credit continuing education.

She earned a bachelor’s, master’s specialist and doctorate at Northwestern State and was a supervising teacher at the NSU Laboratory Schools for 12 years. Boutte was named Natchitoches Parish Elementary School Teacher of the Year, the Natchitoches Kiwanis’ Outstanding Young Educator and a Turner Broadcasting National Faculty Member.

Wright is a partner in the RSM US LLP Houston office and is a member of National Tax Leadership Committee for RSM’s Private Client Services group, leads the PCS Practice for the Central Region and co-leads the RSM Family Office practice.  His primary expertise is in tax matters related to tax planning for family wealth preservation, wealth transfers, charitable transfers, closely held business enterprises and multigenerational families.

He works extensively with high-net-worth families, family offices and closely held businesses.  He began his career with Haskins & Sells (now Deloitte USA, LLP) in 1973 and was admitted to Deloitte as a partner in 1981. In 1985, he joined the Houston firm of Margolis, Phipps & Wright, P.C. He served on the Executive Committee of Margolis, Phipps & Wright, P.C. until joining his partners and staff members in opening the Houston office of RSM in 2013. He is active in numerous professional organizations including the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants and has spoken at numerous seminars on subjects related to taxation and tax legislation.

Wright earned a bachelor’s in accounting at Northwestern State in 1973.  He serves on the Northwestern State University Foundation board and is a trustee of Mary R. Gallaspy Charitable Trust No. 2.

Lott became president of Lott Oil Company in 1979 and has helped build it from a single truck and two employees to one of the region’s most successful petroleum distributorships. The company delivers more than 100 million gallons of fuel and three million gallons of commercial lubricants to Louisiana and adjoining states. Lott Oil was a key responder during Hurricane Katrina, delivering the first diesel for generators to the command posts set up by FEMA and the Coast Guard in downtown New Orleans. The company remains a vital team member in disaster response planning with state and parish emergency services and law enforcement.

Lott is a leader in his profession, serving on the National Advisory Board for Chevron-Texaco, as vice president of the Chevron Texaco Petroleum Marketers Association and former president of the Louisiana Oil Marketers and Convenience Stores Association. He has also been involved in public service and in local civic organizations.

Lott is a decades-long supporter of Northwestern State athletics and the Demons Unlimited Foundation. In 2017, he and his family established the Luther W. Lott, Sr. Memorial Scholarship, an endowed four-year scholarship through the NSU Foundation. Through his leadership Lott Oil is a long-time supporter of numerous charitable organizations.

Montgomery has had successful careers as a coach, educator and in politics. He served for 20 years in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1988 to 2008. Montgomery has been the Bossier Parish Police Jury’s project coordinator since 2008. Before entering politics, he won more than 300 games over 10 seasons at Haughton and Lafayette High winning two state championships. He served as assistant principal at Haughton from 1970-82 and principal from 1982-88.

Montgomery has been named to the Louisiana Political, Louisiana High School Coaches Association, Louisiana High School Basketball Coaches and Ark-La-Tex Sports Museum’s Hall of Fame. He was named Louisiana’s Mr. Basketball in 2009. Montgomery was recognized as One of the 10 Most Influential People in High School Sports.

The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame awarded him the Dave Dixon Award in 2011.  Montgomery was named “A Leader of the Century by the Shreveport Times” in 2002. He was the only individual to receive the International Police Award in 1990.

Montgomery earned a bachelor’s in education in 1960 and a master’s in administration and supervision at NSU in 1966. He also did additional work toward his plus 30 at NSU.

Pierson was successful as a coach, teacher and administrator at Northwestern. She earned a bachelor’s at NSU in 1977 and master’s at NSU in 1980 and a doctorate at LSU in 2001.

She was Northwestern State’s women’s basketball coach for nine years, winning three conference titles, leading the Lady Demons to the finals of the Women’s National Invitational Tournament and coaching multiple all-conference and academic All-American players. Her 1985-86 team won 25 games, the most in school history. She won more than 200 games as a collegiate head coach, serving five seasons at East Carolina where she won a regular season conference championship and coach of the year honors in 1992.

She joined Northwestern’s faculty in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences in 1992. Pierson later became head of the department and helped create the bachelor’s program in hospitality management and tourism, which has placed graduates in positions with leading companies throughout the nation. Under Pierson’s leadership, the program achieved national accreditation.

Pierson was a two-time recipient of the College of Science, Technology and Business Excellence in Teaching Award and was selected as Academic Advisor of the Year at NSU. In 2015, Pierson was awarded the status of Department Head Emeritus by the College of Science, Technology and Business.

Ewing served as executive vice president and chief financial officer for CenturyLink.

Ewing was the longest-serving chief financial officer of all Fortune 500 companies in the nation at his retirement.  He joined CenturyLink in 1983 as vice president of finance, became vice president and controller in 1984 and senior vice president and chief financial officer in 1989.  He was elevated to the position of executive vice president and chief financial officer in 1999.

Before joining Century Telephone, which later became CenturyLink, Ewing was associated for 10 years with KPMG, formerly Peat Marwick & Associates in Shreveport.

Ewing has been instrumental in CenturyLink’s transformation from a regional exchange telephone company to a worldwide technology and telecommunications company.  He was at the forefront of CenturyLink’s acquisition strategy by negotiating all stages of purchase agreements from financing the acquisitions to regulatory issues to folding new companies into the corporate structure and philosophy. He was a leader in ensuring that CenturyLink headquarters remained in Monroe.

Ewing earned a bachelor’s in business at NSU in 1973.  He received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from NSU in 2017. Ewing is a member of the NSU College of Business Hall of Fame and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.

Keator, a highly decorated World War II veteran, earned his degree in 1939. The next year he enlisted in the Army Air Corps and after pilot training was assigned to the Philippines.

On Dec. 8, 1941, Keator and other members of the squadron intercepted Japanese fighter aircraft enroute to the Philippines. In the ensuing battle, he scored the first aerial victory in the battle of the Philippines, a feat which, along with another confirmed and a third probable kill, earned him the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation's second highest honor.

Life Magazine chronicled the exploits in its first issue following the bombing of Pearl Harbor, and the Louisiana Legislature passed a resolution honoring Keator for conspicuous gallantry in action. The next year he experienced a forced landing in the Pacific, a rescue by island natives and a last minute escape from Bataan in the face of advancing Japanese forces.

After the war, he pursued an illustrious career spanning 28 years and four continents. As an engineer in Air Force laboratories, he pioneered numerous systems used in military aircraft. He rose to the rank of colonel, commanding a 200-engineer organization providing support to the operational fleet at the time of his retirement from the military. He passed away in 1981.

Justice James T. Genovese has been an associate justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court since 2017. He was a practicing attorney for 21 years before serving as a judge in the 27th Judicial District from 1995-2004 and a member of the Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeal from 2005-16.

A 1971 graduate of Northwestern State, Genovese has been a panelist, speaker and lecturer at conferences and continuing education seminars on recent updates, professionalism, ethics, summary judgment, writs and appeals, practices and procedures of the Louisiana Third Circuit Court of Appeals and judicial review in the Louisiana Supreme Court.

Genovese served on the Louisiana Supreme Court's Judicial Council Appellate Court Work Point Values Working Group and the Trial Court Committee to Review the Need for Judgeships and as chairman of its Long-Term Subcommittee. He was the Supreme Court's Appointee to the Juvenile Justice Reform Act Implementation Commission. Genovese is a board member of the Supreme Court of Louisiana Historical Society.

Linda Day served as executive director of the Louisiana Association of Educators for four years. She was a teacher in Caddo Parish. Day served as director of Louisiana Drug Policy and the Office of Drug Policy in the office of Louisiana Attorney General Richard Ieyoub. Day served as commissioner to the Education Commission of the States, received the LAE's Human and Civil Rights Trailblazer Award and was one of 76 delegates from the United States to attend the World Confederation of the Teaching Profession in Stockholm, Sweden. She was elected vice president of the National Council of State Education Associations in 1993.

Day earned her bachelor's and master's at NSU. She did additional graduate work at NSU, LSU, Centenary and Southern University.

Dr. Philip Cole graduated from Martin High School in Red River Parish then earned a bachelor's from Northwestern in chemistry and biology. He went on to earn his M.D. from LSU Medical School in New Orleans. Cole received a master's of health care management from the Harvard School of Public Health. He did his internship in general surgery residency and a colon and rectal surgical fellowship at LSU Health Science Center. Cole has 36 years of private and academic surgical practice. He is professor of surgery and public health and general surgery program director for LSUHSC and previously served as chief medical officer for Christus Health in Louisiana and Southeast Texas. Cole has served as president, vice president and secretary of the Louisiana chapter of the American College of Surgery.

In his career, Cole has published more than 40 national and international presentations of academic papers and book chapters. He serves as a deacon and member of the board of directors at Broadmoor Baptist Church. Cole was a member of the board of directors for LSU Health Science Center Foundation and chairman of the Investment Committee, the board of directors of Christus Health, Louisiana and the Juvenile Justice Committee for Caddo Parish. He is a Harvard University admissions committee interviewer and is on the LSU Medical School Admissions Committee. Cole has made more than 30 international medical mission trips.

Chicola is president of Real Vision Software based in Alexandria, a company he founded in 1992 after working as a programmer for 12 years. His company's big break came when IBM saw the advantage of having Real Vision Software's product along with IBM's product covering mid-range businesses. They were later expanded to small businesses for IBM in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Central America. The company sells to businesses including banks, insurance companies, service bureaus, hospitals, government agencies, casinos, trucking firms, investment firms, manufacturers and utility companies.

He earned a bachelor's degree in computer science and accounting at NSU in 1980. Chicola was a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity where he served as president. He was a member of NSU gymnastics team and the Northwestern band. Chicola is president of the NSU Alumni Association and was an advisory, non-voting member of the search committee which selected Dr. Chris Maggio to be Northwestern's president.

Darryl Willis is an accomplished global senior executive with exceptional achievements leading businesses in the oil and gas industry. He has a proven track record of delivering growth and improving profitability for enterprises ranging in size from $1B to $5B in the United States, Russia, Asia and Africa. He has earned the reputation as an inspiring leader who develops people and builds high-performing teams. His leadership style, passion and deep knowledge of issues make his talents transferable to companies of various size, in early or mature stage, or reorganizing with new leadership.

He was selected to lead the Deepwater Horizon claims process for BP, became spokesperson for the company and provided expert testimony before Congress and state legislatures in Florida and Louisiana.

Willis was recently appointed vice president of Oil, Gas and Energy at Google. Prior to that, he was president and chief executive officer of BP Angola and senior vice president and deputy head of subsurface for BP. In his distinguished 25-year career, his global technical and management experience includes subsurface, commercial, operations, strategy, safety, ethics and compliance, public affairs, supply chain, drilling, crisis management and technology across North America, United Kingdom, Russia, West Africa and Southeast Asia.

Willis earned a Master of Science in Management from Stanford University with concentrations in Managing Global Businesses and Social Responsibility, a Master of Science in Geology and Geophysics from the University of New Orleans and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry & Literature from the Louisiana Scholars College at Northwestern State.

Dr. James Henderson was President of Northwestern State University from 2015-2016. Under Henderson's leadership, Northwestern State University created market responsive programs in nursing, oil and gas technology, construction management, industrial technology and engineering. Previously, Henderson was chancellor of Bossier Parish Community College, growing enrollment by more than 84 percent and increased annual certificate and degree completions by 90 percent. Prior to BPCC, Henderson was senior vice president, workforce and economic development/career & technical education for the Louisiana Community & Technical College System from 2005 to 2009. Henderson is now the President of The University of Louisiana System, one of the nation's largest higher education systems, composing of nine distinctive educational institutions serving more than 90,000 students and awarding more than 16,500 degrees annually.

A native of Shreveport, Henderson is a Northwestern State alumnus as is his wife Tonia. He earned a Master of Science in Administration from the University of West Florida and a Doctor of Management from the University of Maryland - University College.

Gerard F. Thomas Jr earned a bachelor's degree from Northwestern State in 1943. He was on active duty in the United States Marine Corps from 1943 to 1946 then earned a law degree at LSU. He became a highly regarded attorney with the firm of Thomas, Dunahoe and Gregory practicing primarily in the field of negligence, workman's compensation and general trial practice. Because of his legal skill, Thomas was selected by his peers to appear in the publication, "The Best Lawyers in America."

Thomas served as a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association House of Delegates, chairman of the State Bar Association section on negligence, worker's compensation and admiralty and president of the LSU Law School Alumni Association. He was a member of the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana from 1983 to 1987, serving as chairman in 1987.

Mrs. Lenn Dohmann Prince is a native of Opelousas who began studies at Northwestern State in 1972, where she was a member of the NSU Chorale and played French horn in the NSU Orchestra. She was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority and represented NSU in the 1974 Miss Louisiana Pageant as the Lady of the Bracelet. She graduated in 1975 with a bachelor's degree in vocal performance education and later earned a master's degree in vocal performance form the University of Louisiana at Monroe.

Prince and her husband Danny have four children and 11 grandchildren. They own and operate several businesses in several states, including nursing and rehabilitation centers, pharmacies and therapy companies, as well as Port au Prince restaurant on Lake Claiborne and Port au Prince Cross Lake. They are active in the NSU Foundation, supporting professorships in voice and music, as well as the renovation of the CAPA music library.

Joe Delaney first made his mark on the football field and made a more lasting impression off the field. Delaney was a two-time All-America running back in 1979-80 for the Demons, and joined Mark Duper, Victor Oatis and Mario Johnson on the Demons' 1981 NCAA championship 4x100 meter relay team, earning All-America honors.

The Kansas City Chiefs picked Delaney in the second round of the 1981 NFL draft. He took the league by storm being named AFC Rookie of the Year and playing in the Pro Bowl. The Demons' spring football game has been known as the Joe Delaney Bowl since 1989 and the Joe Delaney Distinguished Supporter Award goes each year to a leading backer of NSU Athletics.

Dr. Bailes' expertise is in neurovascular disease. Dr. Bailes is a recognized leader in the field of neurosurgery and the impact of brain injury on brain function. He has been instrumental in the understanding of the clinical evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Dr. Bailes also is a founding member and director of the Brain Injury Research Institute, which focuses on the study of traumatic brain injuries and their prevention. Dr. Bailes has been honored as one of the nation's best surgeons for eight consecutive years in U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Doctors" and "America's Top Surgeons."

As a recognized leader in understanding the impact of brain injury on brain function, Dr. Bailes research has been depicted in the film Concussion. Dr. Bailes is portrayed by actor Alec Baldwin as a leading character.

Dr. Randall J. Webb was president of Northwestern State from 1996 to 2014, the longest tenure of any president in university history. Under Webb’s leadership, Northwestern State received unprecedented national and international attention for its academic programs and student accomplishments.

Glenn Talbert has been a successful agent for State Farm Insurance in Shreveport for more than 40 years. One of the Top 100 Demon football players of all time, Talbert has been a generous supporter of the university for decades.

Dr. James L. Holly is founder and chief executive officer of Southeast Texas Medical Associates. He has gained national recognition as a physician, educator and philanthropist.

Foster Campbell is an elected official, businessman and farmer from Bossier Parish. Campbell served with distinction in the Louisiana Senate from 1976 to 2002. He has been a member of the Louisiana Public Service Commission since 2003.

Greg Ashlock is one of the nation’s most successful radio executives running iHeartMedia’s operations in Southern California. Ashlock oversees two of the top billing stations in the country.

Greg Vesey has served in a variety of executive positions with Chevron. He has worked in the company’s gas supply and trading, global power and technology ventures. Vesey is active in professional organizations and volunteers his time to help community non-profit groups.

Denise Lewis Patrick is a freelance writer, editor, instructor and literary consultant who has authored books of poetry, short stories, picture and board books for children, non-fiction biographies, middle grade novels and a young adult novel. She is a mentor and coach for young writers.

Sen. Gerald Long has represented parts of central and northwest Louisiana in the State Senate, holding several leadership positions. Long was an educator, State Farm Insurance agent and Fellowship of Christian Athletes representative before being elected to the legislature.

Carroll Long had a successful career with State Farm Insurance, earning a lifetime membership in the President’s club, the highest honor for an agent. He co-hosted a number of events for NSU athletes and prospective students and he served as well as a volunteer chaplain for the football team.

Dr. Hayward W. “Sonny” Hargrove Jr. was a college and university administrator for 25 years and taught undergraduate and graduate classes. He was active in many professional organizations and served as a consultant at national and international conferences. He led mission trips to China, Japan, Korea and Switzerland. Hargrove is a former SGA President.

George Thomas Walker was president of Northeast Louisiana University from 1958 to 1976. He was a noted faculty member at three Louisiana institutions and was an administrator at Northwestern State.

H. Wayne McCullen was a three-term mayor of Natchitoches, leading the city from 2000-2012. He was a member of the Natchitoches City Council from 1980 – 2000.

Robert Lee Kirchoff partnered with Philip Barbaree to operate a successful chain of restaurants in Louisiana and Alabama. The chain includes Superior Grill, Superior Steakhouse, Cocina Superior and Superior Seafood.

Mary Rives Gallaspy taught business and history at Pelican High School for 26 years. Her philanthropy helped her local community as well as Northwestern State University. Generations of future Northwestern State students will benefit from scholarships created by the Mary Rives Gallaspy Charitable Trust.

Philip Barbaree and Robert Lee Kirchoff opened their first Superior Grill Restaurant in Shreveport in 1983. After nearly 30 years in the restaurant business, they own and operate seven successful restaurants in Louisiana and Alabama.

Winnie Dowden Wyatt was a missionary in Africa for three years. She promoted the benefits of dental health while in Africa and continued to do so once she moved to Texas. Wyatt has written short stories and articles for magazines. She is the author of five books, including two children’s books.

Randy Moffett is President of the University of Louisiana System. He was President of Southeastern Louisiana University from 2001 until 2008. As University of Louisiana System President, he oversaw the selection of campus presidents and saw an increase in system performance. Moffett led Southeastern as it implemented admissions standards while maintaining a strong enrollment.

Barbara Spruill Moffett served as a member of the nursing faculty at Northwestern State and Southeastern Louisiana University. She was Director of Southeastern’s School of Nursing from 2001-2009. Moffett was named to the Nightingale Hall of Fame by the Louisiana Nurses Foundation and received the organization’s Nurse Educator of the Year Award.

Dr. Walter Ledet, Jr. is a board-certified surgeon who has a long-time practice. He co-developed research and techniques in surgical removal of the gallbladder that have been published in leading medical journals and received national and international acclaim. Ledet was named one of Louisiana’s Top Doctors in 2007 and was named in Who’s Who.

Dr. F. Gary Cunningham is Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and holds the Beatrice and Miguel Elias Distinguished Chair in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. He is Senior Editor of the most widely read textbook of obstetrics. Cunningham was appointed by the National Institutes of Health to chair a Consensus Conference.

Virginia Burkett was the first female in the United States to be appointed Director of a state fish and wildlife department when she was appointed Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries in 1988. She is an internationally recognized expert on global change and low-lying coastal zones. She was among the several hundred Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change authors who shared in receipt of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

Don Burkett was elected District Attorney for Sabine and DeSoto Parishes in 1984 and has been re-elected to four consecutive terms without opposition. Burkett is a past President of the Louisiana District Attorney’s Association and has served on numerous statewide boards and commissions.

Sandra Ackerman Martin is Chief Executive Officer of the Center of Child Protection, an organization that serves children who have been abused or suffered physical injury. Martin has been a special education teacher and advocate for children in the court system. She has also worked to assist victims of felony crimes.

W. Peyton Cunningham, Jr. served as a Judge of the 10th Judicial Court in Natchitoches for 24 years from 1972 until 1996, winning election four times without opposition. Cunningham continued to serve as Judge Pro Tem in several parishes. He was also a member of the Louisiana Risk Review Panel. Cunningham practiced law in Natchitoches before being elected judge.

LaMark Carter was a four-time All-American for NSU in the triple jump in outdoor and indoor track from 1991 until 1993. He competed in the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Carter was a seven-time USA champion in the triple jump, winning three outdoor and four indoor championships. He finished as high as second in World Championship competition.

Brig. Gen. James T. Bonsall was a decorated veteran and educator. Bonsall served on active duty and in the reserves. He retired as Chief of Combat Exercises with the 75th Maneuver Area Command in Houston. Bonsall was a teacher, principal, administrator in the Morehouse Parish School System. He was active in parish government and local civic affairs.

Maxine Aycock Southerland is a respected educator and historic preservationist. Southerland taught on the high school level before joining the Department of Home Economics at Northwestern. After retiring from Northwestern, she was appointed Director of the Louisiana State Center for the History of Education. She has been active in the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches for many years, serving as president for 12 years.

Dr. Tom Paul Southerland was a career educator working as a teacher and administrator before coming to Northwestern in 1966. He held several administrative positions at Northwestern including Vice President for Academic Affairs and Executive Vice President. He was instrumental in establishing admissions standards for teacher education and developing 14 new programs for the College of Education as well as securing a specialist and doctorate program.

Alvin Moreau was a teacher and coach in Baton Rouge and Lafayette high schools. He then went to graduate school at LSU and attended and graduated from UAB Medical Center as a physical therapist. In 1977, he opened the first Moreau Physical Therapy Clinic in Zachary and now has clinics throughout the Baton Rouge region. He is a member of the State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners.

Dr. Melissa L. Lynn is a nephrologist in Shreveport. After being a faculty member at LSU Health Sciences Center for five years, she joined a large private practice group. Besides seeing office and hospital patients in Shreveport, she also cares for over 700 dialysis patients in communities across northwest Louisiana. Lynn has a special interest in transplant nephrology and is actively involved in many clinical research projects.

Speedy O. Long was in the Louisiana State Senate for two terms and was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from 1965-1973. He worked to make the Army’s M-16 rifle more reliable and convinced the Pentagon to make Fort Polk a permanent military installation. He retired from Congress in 1973 and served as District Attorney from the 28th Judicial District from 1973 until 1985.

Robert Charles Brown has been President of Arkansas Tech University since 1993, developing and implementing 41 new programs of study. Enrollment at Arkansas Tech has grown 77 percent under his leadership, the institution’s operating budget has grown from $31 million to more than $100 million and new records in private fundraising have been set.

David Wright is a successful Regional Sales Manager in for Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc. A standout football player at Northwestern, he has been chosen for induction into the Graduate “N” Club Hall of Fame and was recognized as one of the top 100 players in NSU history. Wright was active in the coaching profession before beginning his career in pharmaceutical sales

Maj. Gen. Charles W. “Chuck “Thomas served 32 years in the U.S. Army, rising to the rank of Major General. He served at posts throughout the United States, Southeast Asia, Europe, the Pentagon, and in Saudi Arabia during the first Gulf War. After retiring from active duty, he became Vice President of Army and Marine Corps programs for BAE Systems.

John A. Manno Jr. is Co-Owner of Southland Printing Co. In addition to his leadership role in the business community, he has been involved in a number of church and civic activities. Manno is a member of Kappa Sigma Fraternity and is an advisor to the chapter on the NSU campus. He has served on the NSU Foundation Board of Directors and has shown his generosity by establishing scholarships to assist students at Northwestern.

Bryant O. Lewis passed away at the age of 83, on December 17, 2019. Bryant O. Lewis was a successful businessman who owned and operated Magnolia Pulpwood Company along with Timberland Holdings. He was an active in a number of professional and civic organizations in his community as well as on a statewide and regional basis. Lewis was a generous supporter of the university, donating endowed professorships and scholarships. He also served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Joe Salter was Speaker of the Louisiana House of Representatives from 2004 to 2008. He was the first representative from his district to hold the position. A member of the Louisiana House more than for 20 years, Salter has become one of the most respected leaders in state government. Salter was a career teacher and administrator for Sabine Parish Schools and has been honored both as a legislator and educator.

Barbara Jo Pease worked as a legislative aide to U.S. Rep. Joe Waggoner before joining Shell Oil Company. She worked in the area of Business Process Redesign/Reengineering for several years until moving into the area of ethics and compliance. Pease became Shell’s chief U.S. Ethics and Compliance officer in 2001 and became internationally recognized in the field.

Kevin Lynch was a sales and marketing executive with Procter and Gamble for 30 years, retiring as a Division Sales Manager. He was co-founder of the Catholic Men’s Fellowship of Greater Cincinnati and co-founded the National Fellowship of Catholic Men, serving as the organization’s president.

Brig. Gen. Curtis F. Hoglan was in the Army for 30 years. Hoglan served two tours of duty on the Department of the Army Staff in the Pentagon and also served throughout the United States, Germany, Korea and Vietnam. He was Commanding General of V Corps Artillery in Frankfurt, Germany, and the First ROTC Region. After his military career, he worked in the field of economic development.

Dr. Robert Eugene Easley served at the NASA Johnson Space Center from 1964 until 1998 in several leadership positions. He was a member of the Federal Government’s Senior Executive Service. Easley received the Presidential Rank of Meritorious Executive and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal. From 1998 to 2005, he was an executive at The Boeing Company Space Exploration Division.

Tom Carleton was a career educator who served as Chancellor of Bossier Parish Community College. Carleton spearheaded the construction of a new campus at BPCC that led to unprecedented growth. He has received numerous honors, including the Shreveport Times Celebrate Leadership Award in 2004.

Tom F. Phillips served in the Judge Advocate General Corps, then joined one of the state’s most respected law firms, Taylor, Porter, Brooks, Fuller & Phillips. He was a partner in the firm for more than 40 years. Phillips was a generalist in the area of civil litigation and was widely respected for his legal ability.

Ken Moran is an Alexandria entrepreneur who has built several successful businesses from scratch. He is involved in the recycling, manufacturing and trucking businesses and is noted for being able to take advantage of opportunities that become available. Moran has also actively supported local charities and Northwestern.

John McConathy had an accomplished career as an educator in Bienville and Bossier Parishes. He served as Superintendent of Schools in Bossier Parish, helping make the system one of the state’s most respected. McConathy also had an outstanding second career as a businessman. He was named an All-American in basketball at Northwestern.

Maxine Johnson is one of the most respected members of the nursing profession in the state. A long-time member of Northwestern’s nursing faculty, she was inducted into the Louisiana State Nurses Association Hall of Fame. Johnson achieved the rank of Colonel in the Army Nurse Corps of the U.S. Army Reserve.

Melva Coutee broke new ground in her career as Exxon’s first female professional employee and first female supervisor and created opportunities for others in the future. Along with her husband Ellis, she has been a strong supporter of NSU for many years, setting up scholarships and endowed professorships at Northwestern.

Ellis Coutee spent 30 years as a Senior Agent and Insurance Specialist in the U.S. Treasury Department before becoming an Enrolled Agent in private practice. Coutee has been active in church and civic affairs in Baton Rouge and around the state and has been a generous contributor to NSU, setting up scholarships and endowed professorships at Northwestern.

Dr. Robert Alost became Northwestern’s President in 1986 and over a 10-year period led the university to an unprecedented period of growth, laying the foundation for future progress in all areas. Before becoming President, he served NSU as a faculty member, Department Head and Dean. Alost was co-founder of the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts and Director of the school from 1982 to 1986.

Lela Mae Lea Wilkes has been President of Brown-Eagle Group, leading a 500-employee company. She is widely respected in her industry and was among the founders of the Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance. Wilkes is also active in a number of civic and business organizations.

Gregory B. O’Quin used the skills he learned as a student leader to become a leading registered representative. He has also served the Alexandria community as Chairman of the Rapides Regional Medical Center and Chairman of the Rapides Foundation and the Orchard Foundation.

Dr. J. Michael Miller has built a successful career with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Miller serves as Chief of the Laboratory Response Branch in the Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Program. He is responsible for the nation’s laboratory readiness and response capability for bioterrorism or other public health emergencies.

Valsin A. Marmillion is recognized as one of the top campaign strategists in the country. Under his leadership the firm of Marmillion + Company has emerged as one of the nation’s premiere marketing and communications firms. He has been active in the effort to save coastal Louisiana.

Gayle Hatch is one of the most respected weightlifting coaches in the U.S. Hatch was coach of the men’s 2004 United States Olympic Team. He had athletes selected to more than 50 U.S. international teams including the 1984, 1988 and 1992 U.S. Olympic teams.

Joseph G. Dow started Dow Fence & Supply Company in 1964 and built the company into one of the largest wholesale companies in the south. Dow has also become a successful real estate developer and an active philanthropist, making contributions to churches and community organizations.

Dr. Patricia E. Thompson is a national leader in nursing education, serving as President of Sigma Theta Tau International, the Honor Society of Nursing with over 260,000 members. She has been credited with providing leadership influencing practice, education, and policy. Thompson is one of only 1,500 people inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy of Nursing.

Theodore (Ted) L. Jones is one of Louisiana’s most respected attorneys, providing counsel to candidates and office holders at all levels of government including Louisiana governors, congressmen and U.S. senators. He is a leading expert on legislative and administrative law and campaign law.

Gary Fields has worked for the Wall Street Journal, USA Today and Washington Times. He contributed to stories that earned a Pulitzer Prize. Fields was named Journalist of the Year by the National Association of Black Journalists and was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize for his work.

Grover L. Davis worked his way through the ranks to become Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Crawford & Company, the world’s largest independent provider of diversified services to insurance companies, self-insured corporations and governmental entities. He heads a company with over 10,000 employees worldwide.

Lt. Gen. Joseph M. Cosumano Jr. has had a highly successful military career, serving as Commanding General of the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command and U.S. Army Space Command. He has also had assignments in Germany and Korea.

Cheryl Wilson has had a successful career in health care administration, serving in key posts with Hospital Corporation of America. She has been Chief Operating Officer at Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria. Wilson also spent time working in higher education and in state government in Texas. She has also devoted many hours to community service activities.

Judge R. B. Williams was a Natchitoches attorney for 33 years. Williams was elected District Judge from Natchitoches and Red River parishes in 1966 and served on the bench for 14 years. He was highly respected and was selected for leadership roles by fellow judges. He served as a Commander in the U.S. Navy in World War II.

Raymond Strother had an up-close view of American politics for decades. He has produced television and offered strategic campaign advice to more than 300 Democratic candidates for governor, senator, congress and president. Strother has also written for leading publications and has been called upon to lecture at leading universities.

Charlie Ragus was a successful businessman, building AdvoCare into one of the Dallas area’s fastest growing companies. The company was founded because of Ragus’ concerns about the health of others. A member of the football team at Northwestern, Ragus played with the Kansas City Chiefs. The first endowed chair in the NSU School of Business was named in his honor.

Bobby Hebert was an honorable mention All-American quarterback at Northwestern. He brought great distinction to the university during his pro football career during which he passed for more than 21,000 yards and 135 touchdowns. Hebert, known as the “Cajun Cannon,” led the Michigan Panthers to a USFL title and the New Orleans Saints to their first divisional title. He also spent four seasons with the Atlanta Falcons.

Dr. A.A. Fredericks served as President of Louisiana State Normal (now Northwestern State University) from 1934 until 1941. He was also a State Senator from 1932 until 1941. During his presidency, the College underwent its greatest building program to date. As a legislator, he oversaw important legislation in the areas of education, child and old age assistance.

Jimmy Patterson was 76 when he passed away on June 6th 2013. He served on the NSU Athletic Association Board of Directors and was a key in many endeavors on behalf of NSU and its athletic program for many years.

Jimmy Patterson was a long-time business and civic leader in the Shreveport area. Patterson was President of Siblings Financial, LLC. He was the founder, Chairman of the Board, and CEO of the Patterson Insurance Group. Patterson has been the recipient of numerous professional and service awards. A respected member of the insurance industry, Patterson has served on several prestigious insurance regulatory boards.

Judge Rebecca Doherty finished law school at the top of her class at LSU. After a successful career as a practicing attorney, she was named to the federal bench in 1991. Doherty was the first woman to be appointed as a Federal Judge for the Western District of Louisiana and one of the youngest persons to have taken the federal bench.

Fred Clark received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern and is the former President/CEO of Sterling Sugars, Inc. He has also been active in the banking industry and served Northwestern as a faculty member and Executive in Residence in the College of Business. Clark has also been Chairman of the State of Louisiana Board of Parole.

Ed Bradley rose through the ranks of the television industry to serve as Vice-President and General Manager of KSLA-TV in Shreveport. Bradley is active in the community serving on numerous civic and professional organizations on the local, state and national level.

Dr. Buddy Bonnette taught health and physical education classes at NSU for 35 years. He was known for his outstanding work in the field of water safety and lifesaving. Bonnette influenced generations of students and was honored with the title of Professor Emeritus at NSU.

Jackie Smith, a Demon track and football star, was inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994. He is considered among the greatest tight ends in football history. He played 16 years in the NFL, appearing in five Pro Bowls and Super Bowl XIII.

Joe Sampité, who served as Mayor of Natchitoches for 20 years, was the first recipient of the Louisiana Municipal Association’s President’s Award and was inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame. He was noted as a tireless promoter of Natchitoches and Northwestern. Sampité was a teacher and coach prior to being elected mayor.

Col. Ralph E. Ropp served in the U.S. Army for more than 27 years. He served as Director of Army Internal Information in Washington, Public Affairs Officer for the NATO Headquarters in Turkey, and Director of Public Affairs for the Military District of Washington. He also served as Executive Director of Region Activities for the Association of the United States Army.

Larry W. Rivers, former Adjutant General of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, worked his way up from VFW Commander-in-Chief, which is the highest elective VFW office, to Adjutant General in six years. Rivers, a 1968 graduate of Northwestern, also served as executive director of the VFW Washington office.

Elise P. James served Northwestern for over 24 years holding the position of Director of Alumni Programs for over 12 years. She was the first woman president of the Northwestern Athletic Association and the first recipient of the President’s Distinguished Service Award at NSU. She was a driving force behind the establishment of the Long Purple Line.

Dudley Fulton served Northwestern for over 23 years in various roles in the Division of Student Affairs. He held positions as counselor in the Veteran’s Guidance Center, Director of Student Personnel, Dean of Men, Director of Student Relations and Dean of Students. He also was a Professor of Psychology.

Mavis Pate was one of the first to earn a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree for Northwestern State College in 1952. She served as the operating room supervisor for the SS Hope’s maiden voyage to Southeast Asia and was a missionary nurse in Southeast Asia and in the Middle East.

Leonard O. Nichols, also known as “Dean Nic,” served as Assistant Dean of Men and was promoted to Dean of Men at Northwestern in 1963. Nichols helped establish and advise Northwestern’s Blue Key Alumni Chapter.

George Stanley Lewis was Director of Administration/Special Education in the Natchitoches Parish school system. Lewis spent 34 years as a teacher, coach, and supervisor of special services. He has also served on state and international boards focusing on special education.

Dr. Thomas L. Hennigan was Director of the Audio-Visual Center at Northwestern for 14 years. Hennigan was organizer of NSU’s photographic production services and helped design, install, and operated Northwestern’s first closed-circuit television center.

Dan Chase was a successful coach and teacher prior to starting his own business. He was the first to make plastic models for the taxidermy industry as well as develop the quick tan system for animal skins. Chase was a generous supporter of Northwestern, establishing endowed professorships and scholarships to help students.

Robert F. Kelley was a partner with Arthur Anderson & Co. for 24 years, overseeing managing practice services, marketing and international affairs. He was also active in local, national and international business and civic organizations in New Orleans and Chicago as well as in Europe and Asia.

Lucile M. Hendrick had a successful career as a businesswoman and teacher, then returned to Northwestern as Assistant Dean of Women and Dean of Women. She also worked as a volunteer in a variety of civic activities. Hendrick was a charter member of Sigma Sigma Sigma and Alpha Lambda Delta.

Eugene Christmas was one of the most popular and well-known figures in Northwestern’s athletic department where he was a trainer for 25 years. Christmas, who earned the nickname of “Smiley” because of his ever-present smile, was also named “Man of the Year” in Natchitoches Parish.

Jesse L. Boucher served as Mayor of Springhill and was active in the insurance, real estate and construction business. A World War II veteran, he served in the Army Air Force. Boucher has been an active recruiter for NSU, helping bring top students to the University.

Dr. Mildred Hart Bailey was a respected educator and preservationist. Bailey was a member of Northwestern’s faculty for 26 years. She was a nationally recognized expert on reading. Northwestern honored her by naming its top faculty research award in her honor.

Dr. Doyle Z. Williams was recognized as one of the country’s leading business educators, Williams served as a Dean at the University of Southern California and the University of Arkansas. Williams has also held leadership positions in national accrediting agencies and top professional organizations in the field of accounting.

Richard Ware was an all-conference football player at Northwestern. He had a distinguished career as an attorney and judge. Ware was the youngest judge in Louisiana when first elected and was chosen by his peers to head the Louisiana District Judges Association. Ware was recognized for his tireless efforts on behalf of children.

Edna Tarbutton was one of the state’s top girls’ basketball coaches, Tarbutton had a career record of 654-263-2, winning nine state championships including eight in a row between 1948-1955. Tarbutton was elected to the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 1993 as only the fourth woman inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Paul “Doc” Marx was a vital part of Northwestern’s athletic and health and physical education departments for more than 30 years. He was an athletic trainer, as well as a teacher, counselor, and mentor to numerous Northwestern students.

Theodore H. Roberts served as President of LaSalle National Corporation, one of the leading financial institutions in the Midwest. He also served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. During that time, he was also a member of the Federal Open Market Committee, which manages the nation’s monetary policy. Roberts has also been a lecturer at many of the country’s leading business schools.

Robert Harling is a successful playwright and motion picture screenwriter. He was the author of “Steel Magnolias” and was instrumental in seeing that the film was shot in Natchitoches. Harling has expanded his range, directing critically and commercially successful films and working with many of the leading names in the motion picture industry.

Dr. Edward C. Greco was a member of Northwestern’s faculty and a noted research scientist in private industry. During the Cold War, he helped foster international understanding by heading an American team of corrosion engineers on a visit to the Soviet Union and later hosted a group of Soviet scientists. Greco served as Chairman of the International Corrosion Council which he helped form.

Karl Moore rose through the ranks to become one of the top officials at International Paper. Moore was International Paper’s Staff Vice-President and Chief Information Officer responsible for company resources around the world. In addition, he has been generous to the university by organizing alumni chapters and assisting in development operations.

Joanna Magale established the Magale Foundation which helped countless students obtain a college education through a scholarship fund. The Magale Foundation also set up an endowed professorship at Northwestern. She is also responsible for establishing the first Southern Methodist churches in several communities and was a nationally recognized orchid grower.

Dr. Arnold Kilpatrick served as President of Northwestern for 12 years. During Kilpatrick’s tenure, Northwestern attained university status, opened a branch campus at Fort Polk, and an educational center at England Air Force Base and saw a major increase in enrollment. He oversaw a capital improvements program at NSU that either constructed or renovated most of the buildings on campus.

Maj. Gen. Claire Lee Chennault rose through the ranks to become a General and Commander of the Flying Tigers, a group of Americans who assisted the Chinese in their fight against Japan. The bravery of Chennault and his men boosted the morale of the American public during World War II. He was honored for his distinguished military service by the governments around the world.

Melba Law Steeg worked tirelessly as a business and civic leader in the New Orleans Area. By being the first woman on many of the boards and commissions on which she has served, Steeg has provided many opportunities for women. Steeg has worked with religious, artistic, educational, medical and business groups to improve the quality of life in her community. An endowed chair in educational leadership was established at NSU in her honor.

Dr. William V. Muse is a national leader in higher education serving as President of Auburn University, the University of Akron and East Carolina University. Muse has worked to provide expanded opportunities for students and increase campus diversity. He has also been active in Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity as the International President and member of the Grand Council.

David Morgan used his experiences at Northwestern to propel himself to a successful career as an insurance executive. Morgan learned the importance of communicating at Northwestern and built a company with more than $100 million in assets in just over a decade. He has also been a generous supporter of Northwestern.

Marjorie Dial showed her love for Northwestern by remaining active with the Northwestern Alumni Association for more than 30 years. She has helped organized local alumni chapters and served on the association’s board. She won the title of Miss Louisiana in 1933 and later became a public relations executive.

Dr. Charles “Red” Thomas was associated with Northwestern for almost 30 years as a student, coach, professor, and administrator. He was the school’s first All-American in basketball. Thomas was Head Basketball Coach at Northwestern for seven years, leading his teams to two conference championships. He was later Dean of Administration and Vice President of Academic Affairs at NSU.

Rep. Jimmy Long was the dean of the Louisiana House of Representatives, served for 32 years and was later on the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System. He is recognized as one of the leading authorities on education in the South. Long was instrumental in bringing the Louisiana School for Math, Science and the Arts to Natchitoches, and the Louisiana Scholars’ College to Northwestern. He was inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame.

Walter Ledet was the school’s first All-American as a linebacker while earning degrees in chemistry, physics, and mathematics. During his three seasons, he led the Demons to two conference championships and also lettered in track. Ledet was Head Track Coach at Northwestern for 12 years, winning five conference championships. He was also an assistant football coach and later served as NSU’s Registrar.

State Sen. Don Kelly was recognized as one of the state’s most influential legislators. He was a floor leader for governors throughout his nearly two decades in the Senate. A Natchitoches attorney who was a delegate to the state’s Constitutional Convention, Kelly spearheaded successful efforts to bring millions of dollars in programs and projects to NSU and this region of Louisiana.

Mary Gunn Johnston was involved in numerous activities as a student at Northwestern, including student government. Following graduation, she worked at Northwestern as a school dietitian. Johnston was active in a variety of civic and humanitarian efforts in Louisiana and Washington and projects to preserve Louisiana’s culture and heritage.

Maj. Gen. Oris B. Johnson served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. He served in the fighter group charged with the defense of Washington, D.C., and adjacent states. Johnson served in several important staff positions. He was awarded two Distinguished Service Medals, Four Legions of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, six Air Medals, plus numerous other medals.

Lt. Gen. Guy A.J. LaBoa served in the U.S. Army for 35 years and retired as a Lieutenant General in 1997. He commanded the First United States Army, served as Chief of Staff of the United States Forces Command, and commanded the 4th Infantry Division (Mech.) at Fort Carson. LaBoa received the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, and the Purple Heart.

Dr. Jolly Harper was a teacher then became a minister, pastoring churches in Monroe, Provencal, New Orleans, Shreveport, Franklin, Bastrop, Alexandria, Ruston and Natchitoches. He also started the Natchitoches Chapter of Alcoholic Anonymous and has helped hundreds recover from alcoholism.

Admiral Ronald J. Hays was Commander of the Pacific Command for three years. He was commissioned an ensign in the U.S. Navy and advanced to the rank of admiral. Hays also commanded U.S. Naval Forces Europe and all military forces in the Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean. He also served as the Deputy Commander in Chief of the Atlantic and Vice Chief of Naval Operations.

Harry “Rags” Turpin was named Head Football Coach of Northwestern and stayed in that position 22 years. His 1939 team went undefeated at 11-0 and shut out eight opponents. He was also an outstanding athlete at Tulane University and at Northwestern State. After serving as Head Football Coach, he remained the Director of Athletics until 1957.

H. Lee Prather served Northwestern as president, dean of men and a professor of government. For 37 seasons, he was basketball coach and was also football, baseball, and track coach. He coached for 20 years without an assistant. Prather had a record of 473-169 (.737) as basketball coach and won seven conference championships.

Thelma Kyser was a pioneer in the development of physical education programs for women in Louisiana. She served on the State Normal College faculty and was instrumental in getting an academic major in physical education for women established. Kyser reactivated the Association for the Preservation of Historic Natchitoches in 1954 and was President for 13 years. She was instrumental in editing and publishing two books that promoted Natchitoches and the Cane River area.

Maj. Gen. Erbon W. Wise was an author and publisher of several weekly and daily newspapers in Louisiana and Texas. He served 27 years in the U.S. Army Air Force, the U.S. Selective Service System, U.S. Army Reserves and the Louisiana National Guard. Wise was Adjutant General and State Director of the Selective Service System, Civil Defense and the Office of Emergency Preparedness. Wise and his wife Marie set up the first endowed chair at Northwestern.

Dr. Murphy P. Rogers was one of the pioneers of modern education in Louisiana. He was State Supervisor of Elementary Schools and was later Director of College Curricula for the State Department of Education. He returned to Northwestern as Dean. Rogers assisted generations of Northwestern students by contributing more than $120,000 for the establishment of scholarships.

Mary Evelyn Parker was State Treasurer for five terms. She served as Louisiana Commissioner of Administration, Commissioner of Public Welfare and Executive Director of the Louisiana Department of Commerce and Industry. Parker was Chairman of the State Board of Welfare and Personnel Administrator in the War Department.

Ora G. Williams served Northwestern for eight years as librarian and 15 years as an Assistant Professor of English. She introduced the teaching of English through the use of closed-circuit television. Williams was a distinguished lecturer and writer of many articles and books on local history. She was also well known for editing “Plantation Memo” written by Francois Mignon.

Dr. Carolyn Leach Huntoon served as the Director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Agency Representative at the White House in the Office of Science and Technology Policy and Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Energy. She received NASA’s Outstanding Leadership Medal and an award from the USSR Federation of Cosmonautics.

William J. “Bill” Dodd served the state of Louisiana as a state representative, lieutenant governor, state auditor and superintendent of public education. Dodd was also a teacher, attorney, lecturer and author. He was inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame.