What's happening in Cenla education
Alexandria student named 'Mr. NSU'
Terrell Gorham of Alexandria was recently named Mr. Northwestern State University 2016.
"Receiving the honor of being Mr. NSU is truly a dream come true," said Gorham, a senior social work major. "It is something that I always wanted since I first arrived here at Northwestern State University. I feel extremely humbled and honored to earn the respect and admiration of faculty, staff and the students here on this campus. I will definitely not take this for granted and continue to represent this University in a positive manner."
Gorham is the son of Terrell Gorham and Jennifer Gorham. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Order of Omega, the National Panhellenic Caucus, Helping Hands and the African-American Caucus. A Dean’s List student, Gorham is a former member of the Student Government Association and Student Activities Board. He was a member of the 2016 Homecoming Honor Court.
Gorham initially joined Alpha Phi Alpha and branched out.
"To leave my mark on this campus in some form or fashion, I knew that could only be possible if I got involved as much as possible," Gorham said. "I knew that I wanted to hone my leadership skills, and gain other skills as well. I’m a firm believer in making the most out of your college experience. You can develop life long friendships along the way as well."
Gorham is supporting the Wade Smith Foundation, an organization founded by Smith, a former NFL Pro Bowl player. The organization supports community youth programs in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and Greater Houston area focusing on literacy and education.
"As a social work major, I believe in helping and advocating for others," he said. "I feel this foundation is awesome. I believe that this program is remarkable due to the fact that it gives back to youth. With education and literacy programs, and scholarship programs, I feel that this foundation is blessing to those that are involved."
Students invited to open house
All high school students and their parents are invited to learn more about Louisiana State University of Alexandria at the school's annual Open House.
Potential students will be able to explore academic programs offered at LSUA while speaking with department representatives. Current students as well as representatives from Admissions, Financial Aid and Student Support will also be on hand to answer any questions.
The Open House is scheduled for Nov. 22 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom. Parents are encouraged to attend and lunch will be provided.
For more information, call 318-473-6417. There is no cost and to register, please visit www.lsua.edu/admissions/visit-campus.
Vernon celebrates improved scores
Vernon Parish maintained its status as an A school system and now ranks sixth in the state.
"We are very proud, and we are excited, but we are certainly not completely satisfied," Superintendent James Williams said in a statement. "We believe that once you are satisfied, you have quit improving."
The school district earned a score of 109 from the state department of education, which released school performance scores on Thursday.
Vernon now has 12 A schools and 6 B schools.
Williams said he sees room for improvement still.
"We have identified areas that need improvement at each school on each grade level and have already implemented improvement plans and action plans to address any deficiencies," he continued. "We are committed to our children’s education and strive each day to go from good to great. We recognize and appreciate all of the help and support from our parents, teachers, administrators and board members that work together to make our continuously upward progress in education become a reality."