Fall Exercises for the 2015 Commencement of Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Friday, December 18, 2015 Prather Coliseum Natchitoches, Louisiana

TO OUR GUESTS

The faculty and staff of Northwestern State University welcome you to the one hundred thirtieth fall commencement exercises. This is a happy occasion, but yet a dignified occasion. It is a time of recognition of the graduates’ years of study and is important and meaningful to the graduates and their families, staff, and students of Northwestern State University. Guests and participants are requested to maintain a proper decorum during the ceremony by avoiding unnecessary movement about the seating area and by withholding applause until the entire class has been graduated. We heartily welcome you to the commencement exercises of Northwestern State University. To the Graduates From The President

Dear Graduates:

Congratulations on this personal milestone as you receive a degree from Northwestern State University. I hope this day is being shared with those who have been beside you as you have worked to graduate.

For more than 130 years, Northwestern State has helped shape graduates who have gone on to successful careers in business, journalism, medicine, education, industry, technology, the arts, and virtually every career field imaginable. Today, you become part of that rich history and tradition joining more than 75,000 Northwestern State alumni, including Tonia and me, in all 50 states and nations around the world. Regardless of the degree you are receiving today, there is no doubt our faculty has prepared you for the varied and exciting opportunities you will encounter in the years to come.

The degree you receive today is quite valuable. Over time, a degree can gain value because of what you and other members of this graduating class achieve along with past and future alumni. All of us alumni have a stake in each other’s success and in the continued advancement of our beloved university.

In the years to come, please maintain the ties you have developed with classmates, faculty, and staff. Those relationships you have developed will become even more important as time passes. One way to keep those ties is to join the Northwestern Alumni Association. It is one of the best ways you can interact with people who share a common interest, keep up with developments at the university, and support Northwestern.

Enjoy your special day and never underestimate the things you can accomplish.

Dr. Jim Henderson President Nicole Vasquez

Nicole Vasquez was the 2016 State High School Teacher of the Year. She teaches at Captain Shreve High School in Shreveport, providing instruction in ninth and tenth grade English and eleventh and twelfth grade liberal arts which covers philosophy and multicultural perspectives. She has taught general, enriched, honors, and gifted phases. For the past three years, she has taught summer school classes in English, social studies, and English language arts for grades eight through twelve.

At Captain Shreve, Vasquez serves as co-sponsor for Z-Club, a service organization with more than a hundred girls in grades ten through twelve. She has been Youth and Government co-sponsor and Drama Club sponsor. Vasquez has performed a variety of volunteer roles working at club fundraisers and other extracurricular activities.

Vasquez is a 2007 graduate of Northwestern State, earning a bachelor’s in secondary education. She obtained a master’s in special education, gifted, in 2010 from NSU and a certification in secondary social studies from Northwestern State in 2011. Vasquez is a 2003 graduate of Leesville High School.

In 2007 and 2012, Vasquez developed and organized information for SACS accreditation. Currently, she is a member of the High School Graduation Task Force, working with the director of high schools and other high school teachers to increase graduation rates and options for graduates such as field-based certifications.

She was a presenter to the Louisiana Council of Teachers of English in 2013 on how to conduct Socratic Seminars, adapt seminars to different types of classrooms, and create effective questions. Her presentation also modeled how to facilitate leadership roles in Socratic Seminars. Vasquez has also made school-based professional development on the same subjects. PROGRAM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2015 10:00 A.M. Music provided by the Northwestern State University Symphony Orchestra Dr. Douglas Bakenhus, Conductor PROCESSIONAL INVOCATION...... Damian Michael Glover Graduating Senior, College of Arts and Sciences

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM...... Emma Victoria Harrison Graduating Senior, College of Education and Human Development

WELCOME...... Dr. Jim Henderson President, Northwestern State University

INTRODUCTION OF SPEAKER...... Jasmine D. Gobert Senior, Gallaspy Family College of Education and Human Development

COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS...... Nicole Vasquez 2016 Louisiana High School Teacher of the Year

RECOGNITION OF HONOR GRADUATES...... Dr. Lisa Abney Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES...... Dr. Abney

PRESENTATION OF DIPLOMAS...... Lillie Frazier Bell University Registrar Dr. Steve Horton Vice Provost and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and Graduate School Graduate Degrees Bachelor/Associate Degrees Dr. Vickie Gentry Dean of the Gallaspy Family College of Education and Human Development Bachelor Degrees

CONFERRING OF DEGREES...... Dr. Henderson

CLOSING REMARKS...... Dr. T. Davina McClain Associate Professor of Classics, Louisiana Scholars’ College

THE ALMA MATER – Air: “The Watch on the Rhine”...... Emma Victoria Harrison

RECESSIONAL PROGRAM FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2015 3:00 P.M. Music provided by the Northwestern Symphony Orchestra Dr. Douglas Bakenhus, Conductor PROCESSIONAL INVOCATION...... Damian Michael Glover Graduating Senior, College of Arts and Sciences

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM...... Emma Victoria Harrison Graduating Senior, College of Education and Human Development

WELCOME...... Dr. Jim Henderson President, Northwestern State University

PRESENTATION OF POSTHUMOUS DEGREE...... Dr. Henderson Rachel M. Boiles Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

INTRODUCTION OF SPEAKER...... Jasmine D. Gobert Senior, Gallaspy Family College of Education and Human Development

COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS...... Nicole Vasquez 2016 Louisiana High School Teacher of the Year

RECOGNITION OF HONOR GRADUATES...... Dr. Lisa Abney Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs PRESENTATION OF CANDIDATES FOR DEGREES...... Dr. Abney AWARDING OF COMMISSIONS...... LTC Katherine Carlson Head, Department of Military Science

PRESENTATION OF DIPLOMAS...... Lillie Frazier Bell University Registrar Dr. Steve Horton, Vice Provost and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and Graduate School Graduate Degrees Dr. Dana C. Clawson Dean of the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health Bachelor/Associate Degrees Dr. Margaret Kilcoyne Interim Dean of the College of Business and Technology Bachelor/Associate Degrees

CONFERRING OF DEGREES...... Dr. Henderson CLOSING REMARKS...... LeahAnn Young Assistant Professor of Nursing

THE ALMA MATER – Air: “The Watch on the Rhine”.....Emma Victoria Harrison

RECESSIONAL FACULTY MARSHALS

10:00 A.M.

Dr. William Dickens Dr. . Marcia McLure Hardy

3:00 P.M.

Mr. Paul Pharris Dr. Ben Rushing

COMMISSIONEES IN THE ARMED FORCES

FALL 2015

Alejandro Mauricio Cespedes Coleman Douglas Hearne

STUDENT USHERS

The students leading the candidates into the auditorium represent the Northwest- ern State University student organizations of Blue Key National Honor Frater- nity and Purple Jackets Club. Both organizations are honorary service groups that are highly selective in nature and provide service to the University in many ways throughout the year. Purple Jackets was originated in 1927; Blue Key was begun at Northwestern State University in 1959. It is a Northwestern tradition for a representative of each of these two organizations to lead each file into the commencement ceremony.

GONFALONS

The gonfalon, a flag that hangs from a crosspiece or frame, originated in the medieval republics of Italy as an ensign of state of office. Gonfalons have been adopted in many universities around the world as college or institutional insignias.

The gonfalons displayed represent the academic areas of Northwestern State University. The colors of the University, purple and white, are used for each gonfalon along with a design representative of each academic area. HONOR GRADUATES SUMMER 2015

MAGNA CUM LAUDE (G.P.A. 3.89 – 3.70)

Stephenie Lauren Burke Rebekah Joy Burnett Paxton Samuel Cook Courtney Lynn Fitzgerald Cheryl Lynn Garrett Rachel Langley Langford Stephanie Ann Lineberry Mallory Beth McCain Andrea Kelly Meziere Katherine K. Nappier Mallory Caitlin Oliver Kayla Nicole Slocum Susanna Christine Squyres Meghan A. Wallace

CUM LAUDE (G.P.A. 3.69 – 3.50)

Courtney Lynne Ascencio Corwin M. Barnes Roy Lynn Belcher Brenna A. Bordelon Vonetta Faye Cook Megan Michelle France Marlicia Di’Chelle Jones Liana Morgan Kay Carolyn Ann Knebl Vandalyn Leenez Lister Brittany Nichole Little Megan Elizabeth Louque Katherine Frances Medica Ryan Taylor Moore Brooke Marlene Moseley Emma Claire Hughes Patterson Chelsi LeAnn Ragan Ashley Claire Rovira Megan Alaine Smith Lauren Jackson Stanly Allison Paige Walker HONOR GRADUATES FALL 2015

SUMMA CUM LAUDE (G.P.A. 4.00 – 3.90) Ashton Taylor Averitt Jared Rayshard Humbles Jennifer Briann Barnhill Daniel Roy Jones Haley Faircloth Campbell Tatiana Larina Lauren Elizabeth Carroll Joanna Elizabeth McFarling Lesley S. Dykes Sabrina Granger Sharpe Carly Paige Funderburk Doretta Jean Smith

MAGNA CUM LAUDE (G.P.A. 3.89 – 3.70) Ashley Dawn Adams Emma Victoria Harrison Rachel Anne Adams Adam David Jones India Gabrielle Adams-Pickens Matthew Kevin Killian Brittany Nicole Amerson Amber Lynn Lamers Julia Angelle Barry Riley Joseph McCalister Ellisa Marie Boothe Janney Arthur Mitchell Stephen Glen Bynum Tyra Gabrielle Morrison Rebecca Johnson Collins Kimberly Yanid Pimentel Thelford Deward Davis III Amber Charisse Raggio Collin Taylor Decker Angel Ann Remedies Maddaline Elizabeth Bailey Dempsey Brett Alexander Rodriguez Tess Julianna Dowdle Dana Victoria Thompson Lara Hope Duncan Isabella Marie Vazquez Natasha N. Edwards Jessica N. Wells Rylan Shay Flugence Jordan Renee’ White

CUM LAUDE (G.P.A. 3.69 – 3.50) Helen Rebecca Anderson Jason Patrick Kuilan Ryan Cheaney Andress Sloan T. Larriviere William Dean Bechtel Jody Dale Maynard Zachary Glen Blundell Rayce Alan Mayor Alesia Charnae Bobo Trevor Dustin McCray Morgan Nicole Bolin Tessie Renee Myers Ivory Monte Breland Kelsie LeAnn Neighbors Dalton Robert Carroll Caitlin Riane O’Connell Tracey Renee Davis Alexander Thomas Oetken Carlton David Estes Kayla Elizabeth Possoit Nakeya Tiheash Fontenette Caitlin Elizabeth Roberts William Caleb Gaston Edward Anthony Ruggers Jasey Erin Brook Gilbert Pamela M. Rushing Angela Danielle Gourdon Brooklynn Paige Sanders Melissa Lauren Hanson Shaina Renee’ Saucier Melissa Wood Harmon Carly Jessica Smith Thuy Thanh Hoang Megan Ashley Stanley Eryn Hollier Tiffany Nicole Toliver Mariah Nichole James Taylor Marie Vagrin Sarah A. Jones Michael James Verbick Dana Lynn Jordan PHI KAPPA PHI

The national Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi was the first to recognize superior scholarship in all fields of study and to take into membership the highest-ranking students from all branches of learning. Since chapters elect no more than the upper ten percent of a graduating class, membership is a distinction unequaled by any other scholarly group. Faculty and students who are members wear the medallion of the Society. Members from this graduating class are:

Brittany Nicole Amerson Amber Lynn Lamers Rodney J. Anderson Rachel Langley Langford Julia Angelle Barry Tatiana Larina Ellisa Marie Boothe Deborah Jean Banker Lawrence Ivory Monte Breland Dawn Marie Liebenguth Antresiya Nychelle Brown Riley Joseph McCalister Stephen Glen Bynum Joanna Elizabeth McFarling Bobbi Sell Caballero Katherine Frances Medica Haley Faircloth Campbell Ryan Taylor Moore Lauren Elizabeth Carroll Frida Kristel Monjardin Navejas Shakia Darnell Davis Sarah L. Odom Lokahi Ke’alohi Delovio Alexander Thomas Oetken Maddaline Elizabeth Bailey Dempsey Mallory Caitlin Oliver Arman R. Douglas Amber Charisse Raggio Lesley S. Dykes Angel Ann Remedies Natasha N. Edwards Brett Alexander Rodriguez Courtney Elizabeth Espenan Pamela M. Rushing Carlton David Estes Gifford Michael Saravia Theresa Noel Felton Sabrina Granger Sharpe Joshua Aaron Fransik Amber Nicole Spurgeon Christolyn Charmaine French Lauren Jackson Stanly Carly Paige Funderburk Dana Victoria Thompson Cheryl Lynn Garrett Tiffany Nicole Toliver Rosalie C. Griffin Isabella Marie Vazquez Carolyn Dianne Hale Allison Paige Walker Emma Victoria Harrison Jessica N. Wells Adam David Jones Jordan Renee’ White Daniel Roy Jones Tammy Sabrina Wilkerson Marlicia Di’Chelle Jones Shannon Nixon Youngblood Candidates for Graduation Graduate Summer 2015 Master Degrees Jalyn Eliese Ayo, Master of Science, Psychology, Clinical Thesis: Can Personality and Problematic Cell Phone Usage Predict Anxiety in College Students when Cellular Access is Restricted?

Marcus Lee Bennett, Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction

Sarah W. Bernard, Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction

Tonya Sue Brady, Master of Arts, English

*Jason K. Chandler, Master of Education, Special Education

*Charles Jeffery Darwin, Master of Arts Thesis: Employing Visual Storytelling Techniques to Teach Design

*Arman R. Douglas, Master of Arts, Adult Education

*Allison M. Durham, Master of Education, Special Education

Eddie C. Gibson, Jr., Master of Arts, English

*Bill Gingles, Master of Arts

*Laurel Karikari, Master of Science, Psychology, Clinical Thesis: The Effect Primary Drug and Therapeutic Commnities Have on Motivation

*Diane Leigh McMurry, Master of Arts, English

Helena Ellen Miles, Master of Science, Psychology, Clinical

Karen L. Murphy, Master of Arts, English

*Sarah L. Odom, Master of Arts, English

*Lily June Thompson, Master of Arts Creative Research Project: Exploring Buddhist Philosophy Through Imagery of the Lotus Flower

*Crystal Carver Veronie, Master of Arts, English

*Denotes 4.0 in Degree Program COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES Earl Arron Broyles, Jr. BACHELOR DEGREE Kayla Renn Bull CANDIDATES Lisa Renee Byles SUMMER 2015 Mark Anthony Carrier Kymberlee Antyra Chenier Harry Tammond Anderson Richard Burton Chenvert, Jr. Brandon R. Banks Pearl E. Clifton-LaVergne Corwin M. Barnes* Nicole Renée Coincon Brenna A. Bordelon* Helen Potter Cooper Jarome Darnell Davis Robert Angelo Cumo, Jr. Kelsi Jo Dupree Scott Anthony Cunningham Michael Seth Easterly Emily Christine Dauzat Timothy John Fanguy Sarah Bordelon Dauzat* Stefan Jacob Foster Gena LaRose Davis Erica L. Friday Gregory Markeith Davis Cheryl Lynn Garrett* Philip Owen Dear* Philip Luke Hall Jessica Marie Farr* Jamie Dashawn Hardin Shea Catherine Flynn* Jacobian M. Jones Brooke Elizabeth Ford Jourdan A. Jurek Stephen Michael Freshley Katherine K. Nappier* Charles Tyler Garner Joshlan Sheantrell Raymo Landon Payne Garrett* Bianca Shawnee Robinson Katrina Lynn Gilson-Dauzat Ashley Claire Rovira* Justin Lamar Givens* Shandi Sharnelle Russell Lisa Lynette Green Robert Skok* Megan LeAnn Green* Shea Lynn Swinford Jocelyn Jeree Griffin Lynnshya M. Ward, Jr. Natasha L. Guidry Erin Paige Hall Trekesha S. Hamilton* COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES Jessica Elaine Hammontree ASSOCIATE DEGREE Anntoinette Shunt’a Harris CANDIDATES E’ron Jakeith Harris SUMMER 2015 Charles Jason Heck Courtney Elizabeth Hernandez Shelton Ralph Alexander, Sr. Ashley Morgan Hippler Kyra Sambria Armstrong* Darnitha Brown Hudson Breana Nycole Ashley M’Andreia KeShae Hunter Kimberly Ashley Sabrina Michelle Jackson-Ward Joelle Ballon Ashley Jenia’ Johns Brittany Marie Barrow Teressa K. Jyles Korey Lawrence Bayonne Nora Ann Solea Lersch* Chelsey Marie Berlin Tiffany Aton Litton Suzanne Philebar Blake Meagan Elizabeth Martin Joseph Dale Blalock Michael Desmond McCauley Angelle Marie Boudreaux Autumn Allain McCoy Brittany Lenora Brooks* Wanda Elaine McKinley Jaterica Janay Brown Jacqueline Evette McKinney

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Metria Rhoshal Moore Robyn Elysia Butler* Stacy Diane Moore Jordan C. Byrd* Travis L. Moore Cynthia Lynette Cage* Jessica Linzay Moreau* Destiny Annette-Jerlean Clayton Ariane Monique Morgan Erin Blaise Cole* Joshua Clifton Nance Danielle M. Conde* Jessica Ninh* Paxton Samuel Cook* Jenny Lynn Pickett Vonetta Faye Cook* Joshua John Pierre Morgan DeLong Cottingham* Chanelle April Piper Peggy Katherine Guy Anita Welch Powell Kimberly Ann Hudnall Michael Jamaal Prier Shirnelle Lee Lumar Ed Queen III Alyssa L. Martinez Danna Ewing Rabb Brianna Grace Marzett Vanessa Roberts Jessica Evans Pentecost* Millicent Lorraine Rubin* Vanessa M. Posey* Chelsie Deion Sapp* Monica De’von Spencer Zachary Collin Sawyer Ashley Rae Sexton Ashley Mona Shelton COLLEGE OF NURSING & Lillie Ann Shows* SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH De’Condria Marchell Smith BACHELOR DEGREE Derrick Houston Smith CANDIDATES Fredericca Simone Smith SUMMER 2015 Amanda Nicole Spillman Kimberly Renèe Spooner* Courtney Lynne Ascencio* Sierra Rashel Stridiron Kelly I. Barrett* Cory Wayne Stroud Rebecca Renee Beaman* Tasha Marie Sullivan Roy Lynn Belcher* Tonia Michaela Swiney Andre’ Richard Benson* Ella Louise Turner Emily Ann Beridon* Marci Lyn Waddle Ellen Anne Blaisdell-Ray* Brittany Young Walker Ashley Michelle Bordelon Lynnshya M. Ward, Jr. Melanie Anne Bradford* Amber Dawn Wenteler* Michael K. Bradford* John Paul Williams Stephenie Lauren Burke* Ykethia Shantell Williams Juliana Valerie Burnell* Rebekah Joy Burnett* Edgar Anthony Byon GALLAPSY FAMILY Claudia Johanna Cardiel* COLLEGE OF EDUCATION & Ariel Briana Carter* HUMAN DEVELOPMENT Trey Kevin Cash BACHELOR DEGREE Joshua C. Chance CANDIDATES Joelene Christine Cleveland* SUMMER 2015 Alexander Brice Clift Michelle Annette Collins* Kerri Guillory Bernard* Meagan Book Creel* Angella Anne Blevins* Katelyn Olivia Cripps*

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Taylor Kathleen Curry* Margaret Avila Morgan Angenette Davis* Brooke Marlene Moseley* Lokahi Ke’alohi Delovio* Sarah Elizabeth Mulhearn* Valerie F. Devillier* Zalika Aminah Muslim* Amber Marie Doucet Trang Natalie Ninh Victoria Denise Doyle* Jessie Kordish O’Connor* Gayle Owens Elliott Mallory Caitlin Oliver* Madeline Faye Everett* Michael Phillip Parrott* Stacy Denise Ferrell Emma Claire Hughes Patterson* Stephanie Denise Ferrell* Katherine Marie Payton* Courtney Lynn Fitzgerald* Taylor Leanna Poston* Stormy Paige Fitzgerald* Tonya K. Powell* Meagan Woodall Forrest* Leslie Nacole Rachal* Megan Michelle France* Chelsi LeAnn Ragan* Jessica Nicole Gilbertson* Susan MacKenzie Rainer* Rachel De’Ann Graves* Monica Janelle Sanchez* Charles Luke Hankins* Daniel Wayne Sanders* Kayla Marie Hardy* Kayla Nicole Slocum* Shanequia Lawanne Harris* Emily Adrian Smith* Kirsten Alexandra Heden* Lakyn Paige Smith* Christopher Corey Heller Megan Alaine Smith* Joseph Hauser Hendrickson Staci Lynn Smith* Lanie Skye Hesson* Melissa Meshell Socia Ramoana LaNay Holden Kerry Dial Spearman* Brooke Danielle Johnson* Susanna Christine Squyres* Marion N. E. Johnson* David Jordan Stamps* Marlicia Di’Chelle Jones* Benjamin Daniel Stanly* Rebecca LeeAnn Jones* Lauren Jackson Stanly* Liana Morgan Kay* Amanda LeAnne Tarver Carolyn Ann Knebl* Shannen Blaire Theriot* Savannah Ray Landers Angela M. Thomas Rachel Langley Langford* Chantelle Janellamarie Thorpe* Hannah Camille Lanier* Traci Renee Till* Lisa LaTel Lee* Olivia Hope Turner* Tanesha Duwanda Lewis Summer Nicole Urban* Dawn Marie Liebenguth* Carla Janene McDougald Vandenoord Stephanie Ann Lineberry* Allison Paige Walker* Vandalyn Leenez Lister* Katlynd Kennedy Walker* Brittany Nichole Little* Meghan A. Wallace* Megan Elizabeth Louque* Samantha S. Washington Ashley Ernst Mathews Stephanie Rochelle Whitman Mallory Beth McCain* Kathryn E. Williams* Brett Landon McDonald Tocurra A’Shanita Jeter Wong* Courtney Christian McDonough Diana Joseph Woodley* Katherine Frances Medica* Megan Nicole Wright* Andrea Kelly Meziere* Ericka Ann Wynes* Michelle Lee Meziere Ryan Taylor Moore*

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program COLLEGE OF Kyeshia Lashonda Coleman BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY Richard Wayne Galloway II* BACHELOR DEGREE Anslee Nicole Heckel CANDIDATES Lauren Vanessa Jones* SUMMER 2015 Dylan Hayes Laborde Lessie LaCour Tessa Laurice Anderson Bradley Dale Lutrick* Jonathan M. Bazley Terrian Lewis Mobley* Yolonda B. Beverly* Kanitta P. Ruiz* Brandon Tyler Bird Wa’Derrious O’Shea Sellers Jessica Michelle Bunnell Aram Nobar Vartenian Candidates for Graduation Graduate Fall 2015

Specialist in Education Degrees

*Christolyn Charmaine French, Educational Leadership and Instruction Thesis: From Administrators to Adolescent Learners: The Effects of Facilitated Goal Setting on Middle School Student Achievement

Tammy Sabrina Wilkerson, Educational Leadership and Instruction Thesis: Examining the Family Quality of Life for Three Families of Preadolescents with Disabilities

*Denotes 4.0 in Degree Program Candidates for Graduation Graduate Fall 2015 Master Degrees

*Erin Wiggins Angelo, Master of Education, Special Education

Travis Jerome Batiste, Master of Arts, Student Affairs in Higher Education

Alexi Nicole Beeson, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

Sarah Petrey Blough, Master of Education, Special Education

Christi Ann BlueFeather, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

*Antresiya Nychelle Brown, Master of Arts in Teaching

*Erin Elizabeth Brown, Master of Education, Special Education

Theophylieus Treyon Burks, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

Allison C. Byrnes, Master of Education, Educational Leadership

*Bobbi Sell Caballero, Master of Arts in Teaching

Rogene Dominic Carter, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

*Laura Catherine Chicarello, Master of Music Performance Document: American Storyteller: The Music and Pedagogy of Wayne Lu

Andrew Wayne Clausen, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

Cody Allen Cloud, Master of Science, Psychology, Clinical

Adam Lindsay Coleman, Master of Education, Educational Leadership

Michael Robison Cook, Master of Science, Homeland Security

*Erin Lindsay Courville, Master of Arts, English Thesis: Gifts from the Past and Hope for the Future: Foundation of Identity Requires Communication and Cultural Acceptance in Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club

Robin Rider Courville, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

*Crystal Cutrera Daigle, Master of Education, Early Childhood Education

Kyteja Sharde’ Davidson, Master of Arts, Adult Education

*Denotes 4.0 in Degree Program Janet Evans Davis, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

*Kaitlin Elizabeth Davis, Master of Education, Early Childhood Education

*Shakia Darnell Davis, Master of Education, Special Education

*Wesley Lyle Dehm, Master of Education, Educational Leadership

Irfan Demir, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

*Janell Price DePrato, Master of Education, Special Education

Jose Antonio Hernandez Dubon, Master of Science, Psychology, Clinical

*Courtney Elizabeth Espenan, Master of Arts, Counseling

Eric Joseph Fairchild, Master of Arts, English

Alana Wilson Faul, Master of Education, Special Education

*Theresa Noel Felton, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

Melinda Guidry Fields, Master of Arts in Teaching

Donald Paul Fischer, Master of Arts, English Thesis: The Impact of Norman Maclean’s A River Rush Through It on a Socially Constructed Cultural Imagination of the American West

Sarah Marie Giroir, Master of Arts in Teaching

April Hooper Gordon, Master of Education, Early Childhood Education

Betti Lea Gregg, Master of Arts, English

*Rosalie C. Griffin, Master of Education, Special Education

Donna Renee Stroud Guillory, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

*Carolyn Dianne Hale, Master of Education, Special Education

Timmakah Shanay Hardy, Master of Arts in Teaching

Julie Bell Harper, Master of Education, Special Education

*John Charles Harrison, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

Kathryn Mercil Hebert, Master of Education, Special Education

Jennifer Colleen Henning, Master of Arts, English

*Denotes 4.0 in Degree Program Michelle Lane Higson, Master of Arts, Counseling

Angela Diane Hood, Master of Arts in Teaching

Gina Ann Istre, Master of Arts in Teaching

Geralyn A. Janice, Master of Arts, Adult Education

Taralah Mehir Jeansonne, Master of Arts, Counseling

Mason Anthony Joiner, Master of Arts, English Thesis: The Lost Plays of Tenesae

Tasha Shawn Jones, Master of Science, Homeland Security

Carolyn Gordon Kenney, Master of Arts, English Thesis: Twists of Fate: A Nonfiction Novella of the Vietnam War

Victoria Khanevskaya, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

*Erin Nicole King, Master of Arts, Counseling

Polina Konop, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

*Al M. Landry, Master of Arts, Adult Education

*Deborah Jean Banker Lawrence, Master of Education, Educational Technology Leader

Tiffany Renae LeMay, Master of Arts in Teaching

*Schbrett A. Lewis, Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction

Ashley K. Liles, Master of Arts, Counseling

*Kristina Marie Lombardo, Master of Arts, Student Affairs in Higher Education

Melissa B. Martarona, Master of Arts, Counseling

Emily Kratochvil Martin, Master of Arts in Teaching

Shelby Lynn McCain, Master of Arts, Counseling

*Jennifer Lynn Young McDowell, Master of Arts in Teaching

Christopher L. Mixon, Master of Arts, Adult Education

*Wendy Rebecca Myers, Master of Science, Radiologic Sciences

Valerie Brown Oates, Master of Arts, English

*Denotes 4.0 in Degree Program Gabriele V. Patterson, Master of Arts, Adult Education

Andrea Lea Payne, Master of Arts in Teaching

Sonja Smith Polley, Master of Arts, Counseling

*Janyce Marie Prier, Master of Science, Radiologic Sciences

Luke James Renard, Master of Science, Homeland Security

*Gifford Michael Saravia, Master of Arts, Adult Learning & Development

Rebecca-Summer Ione Sexson, Master of Arts in Teaching

*Nicholas Evon Sheppard, Master of Science, Homeland Security

Amber Nicole Spurgeon, Master of Arts in Teaching

Angelica L. Stinson, Master of Arts in Teaching

*Jessica Lois Stout, Master of Arts, English Thesis: Palestinian Resistance as Seen Through the Works of Khalifeh and Kanafani

*Amanda Abshire Stratton, Master of Science, Radiologic Sciences

Sarah Ellen Streets, Master of Arts in Teaching

Kameron Blayze Suire, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

Jessica Graham Taylor, Master of Arts in Teaching

*Cindy Cutchall Thomas, Master of Arts in Teaching

Kayla Rena’ Viree, Master of Arts, Adult Education

*John Allen Volentine, Master of Science, Homeland Security

Zachary Evan Weinberg, Master of Science, Health and Human Performance

*Bonnie Stephens White, Master of Education, Educational Leadership

*Jamie Monique Williams, Master of Arts, Counseling

Angela Michelle Willingham, Master of Arts, English

*Shannon Nixon Youngblood, Master of Science, Radiologic Sciences

*Denotes 4.0 in Degree Program LOUISIANA SCHOLARS’ COLLEGE BACHELOR DEGREE CANDIDATES FALL 2015

*George Patrick Broussard Thesis: Love, by Way of Wes Anderson: A Sartrean Analysis of Love in the Films of Wes Anderson

*Joanna Elizabeth McFarling Thesis: Animal-Assisted Therapy and Its Use with Children

COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES Bianca M. Covington BACHELOR DEGREE Christopher C. Cryer CANDIDATES Delmus Tyler Cunningham FALL 2015 Tracey Renee Davis* Emily Nicole Deen Katie Lauren Acosta* Tess Julianna Dowdle* Elizabeth Jo Arnold Lanaisha B. Dugas* Edgar Gregorio Avilan-Diaz* Lara Hope Duncan* Courtney Grace Barrett Christophe Renard Eldridge Julia Angelle Barry* Richard Obie Erwin Ferlandrick De’sean Bell Melissa Anne-Marie Estes Jackeyla Desmirika Berry* Robert Brian Fabrizio, Jr. David Kyle Bird* Kristin Renea Ferguson Mallory Cramer Bobo Samantha Elaine Flowers Hunter Thomas Bower* Nakeya Tiheash Fontenette* Ivory Monte Breland* Kacie Lynn Franklin* Stephen Ross Briscoe Joshua Aaron Fransik* John Carlton Broughton Marvin Lee Frazier, Jr. Ariel A. Brown Carly Paige Funderburk* Donald Brown Jasey Erin Brook Gilbert* Crystal Nicole Bryant Damian Michael Glover Heather M. Bryson Angela Danielle Gourdon* Jay Butler* Benjamin Wayne Gray* Analyn Elizabeth Buzzell Megan LeAnn Green* Ashton Kyle Carlock* Shannon Alane Harger* Kaymin Marcel Carter* Dana Marie Hauffe Deanna Alyse Beatrice Cato* Ashley Renee Hayes Alejandro Mauricio Cespedes* Coleman Douglas Hearne Clinisha Nicole Chandler Samuel Earl Henry Lashea Danielle Charleville Earline West Hill-Furlow Ray Lynn Christian, Jr. * Eryn Hollier* Melody Sharon Coats* Allen Andrew Holmes, Jr. Tara Elizabeth Coleman Dori Mechelle Huffty Daniel Chase Collins Jared Rayshard Humbles* Leslie Nicole Constance Dennis Paul Hyde* Katie Gill Coody Shelby Lynne Iles* Cherilynne Toni Cottles* Mariah Nichole James*

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Robert Robbie’l Jarrels Sarah Kasey Scott* Evonne Jenkins Sheterkia Shuntae Sloan Alice AnJanette Johnson Daniel B. Smith* Caleb A. Johnson Megan Ashley Stanley* Glynna Gail Johnson Stephanie Renee Stevens* Taesha L. Johnson Kati Virginia Strother Adam David Jones* Charmetta Tralae Sumbler Jacqueline Nicole Jordan Jordan Tyler Terrell Brian Anthony Joseph, Jr. Jane Pippen Timms Christopher Ryan King Paul Leslie Toups, Jr. Katrina Lynn King Conan Elaine Vallee* Tia D’Ann Knighten* Richard Jeremy VanHoof Jason Patrick Kuilan* Justin Scott Vavra Jack Lewis LaBorde Aaron Joseph Vining* Caleb Daniel LaCaze Daisy Nicole Wallace KaTonya LaDacia Lancelin Jessica N. Wells* Luciana V. Lane* Dannae E. White Elizabeth Michelle Lewis Farrah F. White* Ryan Keith Moore Looper* Zachary L. White* Hannah Lee Anne Lozada* Andrew Bradford Wickman Morgan Jene Magnuson Brekia Nicole Williams Rayce Alan Mayor* Amanda Renee Willis* Trevor Dustin McCray* Daniel Allen McDonnell Floyd Christopher McElroy COLLEGE OF ARTS & SCIENCES Tiffany Jewel McGee ASSOCIATE DEGREE Dominique Gabrail McLemore CANDIDATES Bradley Ryan McPherson FALL 2015 Jonathan Allen Medine Jeremy Tremayne Mitchell Hannah Elizabeth Allen* Monty Charles Montelongo, Sr. Joshua Scott Allen Katie Craft Montgomery* Amanda Dawn Andrews* Christopher G. Moore* Willie Beard, Jr. Christopher Michael Moore* Ciarra Williams Bell Lance Michael Moore Jasmine Bell Tyra Gabrielle Morrison* Erica Danielle Benjamin Jarred Miles Murdock Kallie Robyn Bethard* Charles Harry Murphy, Jr.* Jennifer Eleanor Blake Caitlin Riane O’Connell* Stephanie Moreau Book Kayla Nicole Pete Kayla Marie Braudaway Micah Elton Pickering Quantaye Braxton Amber Charisse Raggio* Kasey LaCombe Bridges* Gregory W. Reed Tammy Denise Broadway Holly McCann Rodney* Destiny Renee Broom Alphalonia Mashell Ross Emily Ann Broussard* Edward Anthony Ruggers* Manita Quashaye Brown De’Andrea Fayon Sanders Priscilla Ann Brown* Kevin Sanford Analyn Elizabeth Buzzell Joseph James Schreck Teiana Shante’ Carr

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Melissa Chapman Causey Jerry Javon Palmer Angel Torail Chalmers* Regis Fitzgerald Perry Anesha Nicolay Coleman Myranda Breanne Primrose-Adkins Christina Lavergne Coleman Sondra D. Reed* Denicia Coleman-Thompson Alexander Bartlett Robinson Nicholas Paul Cook Sharnese T. Robinson Ashley Renee Dickerson Chiffon Michelle Ross Christopher B. Dobbins Medarda Isabel Salazar Bayli Montanna Ducote Simon Sarpy III Kate M. Ducote* Tamara Micael Sellers* Andrew Russell Dunn Bridgett Garlette Smith Jenae Tyler Eli Heath Michael Smith Melissa Anne-Marie Estes Lisa Diane Smith* Jonathan Fazzio Ryan Hunter Staggs Stella Sue Finch Raven Joy Stevenson Tiffany Renee Ford Melanie Imbraguglio Stigler Tiffany Danielle Foshee Lindsey Kay Tallant Kacie Lynn Franklin* Jessica Rene Thibodeaux Brandi Katelynn Fredieu* Nikura Tucker Shaquana Keira Gallow Ethan C. Turk* Hannah Sue Galloway Cheri Turner* Marvin Glynn Gistarb, Jr. Erika DeNise Washington Clarence James Gray Pamula Carol Whicker* Brittani Nicole Griffin Alishia Antronete Whitaker Brandon Edward Grimes Justin Miller White Lainie Alyse Guidry Willis Deshawn White Tremaine Jovan Harding JaMarcus A. Wilkerson James David Hare Caitlin N. Willis Sasha S. Harris Sharekia Key’Angela Winn Shaylene Nicole Hauer Mayshonna S. Winslow Ashley LeAnn Hillman* Kevin Elijah Young Kelly Lynn Hopson Rachel Monique Jackson Matthew Thomas Johanson GALLAPSY FAMILY COLLEGE Michael Travis Johnson OF EDUCATION & HUMAN Raphael Edward Jones DEVELOPMENT Jason Lawrence Joshua BACHELOR DEGREE Whitney Lynn Keith CANDIDATES Kristin Leanne Kessler FALL 2015 Stephanie Brooke Kethley Jennifer Margit Kimball Yolanda Nanette Adams* Kelli Jo Marano Devin Matthew Alexander* Barbara Tynisha Martin Helen Rebecca Anderson* Daniel Allen McDonnell Cannola L. Marlow Anderson* Jessica Lauren McKernan* Garrett Matthew Atzenweiler Inez Louise Meshell Jennifer Briann Barnhill* Melissa Ann Messer Kiley Marcel Bell Martin F. Mullins LeAndre Hakeem Benton* Glenn M. Nicholas D’Nez Monique Bob

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Jenna Renee’ Bonner Tatiana Larina* Ellisa Marie Boothe* Sloan T. Larriviere* Erica R. Booze Lakeisha Marie Lee* Rachel Maria Boraks* Raven De’Jon Lewis Brooke Nicole Bourbonais* Jose Eduardo Llanito Michael John Breaux* Michelle Kara Lynn Tayla Trenise Breaux Terrian Shakita Marchand Christian Joel Broussard* Whitney Dominique Marshall* Lawrence M. Brown IV Kimberly Anne Mathis Mary J. Brown* Jody Dale Maynard* Megan Harrell Brunner* Riley Joseph McCalister* Kimberly Bryant Morgan M. McClure* Stephen Glen Bynum* Lenzi Rose McNeely Haley Faircloth Campbell* Joshua Taylor Mitchell Lauren Elizabeth Carroll* Haylee McKenzie Moore* Genevolyn Annette Ceasar Canesha Lashay Morris Ashley Marie Chesal Kelsie LeAnn Neighbors* Ray Lynn Christian, Jr.* Caitlin Marie Nesmith* A’Leisha Lar-Cille Coleman Fallon Dai O’Bannon* Regan Renee Cross* Hannah Royal Oge Troy Demond Cummings Annetta Yvonne Osborne Jillian Nicole Davenport* Beverly Joyce Owens* Thelford Deward Davis III* Shelia Damelia Pegues Jacob Cohen Dempsey Kimberly Yanid Pimentel* Maddaline Elizabeth Bailey Dempsey* Brynna Elise Price Brian Patrick Dobard Grant Thomas Rabalais* Lesley S. Dykes* Lindsay Ann Rachal* Natasha N. Edwards* Angel Ann Remedies* Dominique Nicole Ellison LeighAnna M. Rubino* Cecilia Nicole Ezernack Pamela M. Rushing* Abby Anne Ferguson* Brooklynn Paige Sanders* Kristin Renea Ferguson Shaina Renee’ Saucier* Rylan Shay Flugence* Zachary John Schumann Todd Graham France, Jr.* Sabrina Granger Sharpe* Brandi Katelynn Fredieu* Veronica Dequell Shillow* Amber Lynn Goforth Doretta Jean Smith* Alyssia Nikeya Gremillion Geoffrey Scott Smith* Ebonee Seni Guilliam Amber Rochelle Stanley* Emma Victoria Harrison* Adrienne Lynn Sylvia Benjamin Seth Hesser* Paige E. Tassin* Jamie N. Houston* Tiffany Nicole Toliver* Kerry Maureen Jeric Caitlin D’Laney Turner* Linell Jolivette* Taylor Marie Vagrin* Adam David Jones* Markeyla Cherrelle Veal Sarah A. Jones* Aaron Joseph Vining* Matthew Kevin Killian* Leah Elizabeth Wead James Scott Knight* Steven Man Wetmore Amber Lynn Lamers* Jordan Renee’ White* Kristina Langley Taylor Lavon Whitehead*

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Emmanuel J. Williams Taylor Nicole Gandy* Jessica Sharee Williams* William Caleb Gaston* Taylor Andrew Williams* Hilary Delaine Geer* Sharekia Key’Angela Winn Constance Ivana Grzesiek* Brittany Nicole Wright* Kristen Lynn Hall Pamela L. Hall* Susannah Alyse Halle* COLLEGE OF NURSING & Melissa Lauren Hanson* SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH Spencer G. Hardy* BACHELOR DEGREE CANDIDATES Melissa Wood Harmon* FALL 2015 Daelyn Osborn Hartley Sharice C. Henderson* Rachel Anne Adams* Cheri Ann Hibbs* India Gabrielle Adams-Pickens* Thuy Thanh Hoang* Brittney Nicole Adkinson Lindsey Danzy Ingles* Brittany Nicole Amerson* Melissa Shenea Jackson Haley Taylor Anderson* Lisa M. Johnson* Ryan Cheaney Andress* Shakira S. Johnson Kaitlyn Marie Atkins* Arletris Cha’Von Jones* Veronica M. Atkins Dana Lynn Jordan* Ashton Taylor Averitt* Angela Yoon Kang* LaKendria Anet Babers* Wendy Thomas King* Yvonne Barham Casey Kolwe William Dean Bechtel* Candace S. Massey* Zachary Glen Blundell* Grace Ellen Matthews Alesia Charnae Bobo* Mayte Pino McWilliams Keisha Cartia Bolden-Diaz* Alexis Miranda Morgan Nicole Bolin* Mishka Mire* Mary L. Bradford Janney Arthur Mitchell* Heather Marie Bradley* Howard R. Morris Angel L. Brewer Robert Paul Mottet* Steven Christopher Brian Alyssa Mary Murphy* Benita Marie Brown* Tessie Renee Myers* Lauren Claire Brunker* An Thai Brian Nguyen* Jessica Cara Butler Julian Heiser Ossman Dalton Robert Carroll* Angela Kay Owens-Graham* Candice Enola Castro Julie Helmer Paul* Rachel Page Coates* Kayla Elizabeth Possoit* Danielle Paige Cogburn* Courtney Reagan-Steward Reger* Lafourn M. Collins Kaytlyn Joann Remedes* Rebecca Johnson Collins* Caitlin Elizabeth Roberts* Patrinia Lintonette Antonio Cooke-Sanders Lauren Michael Amanda Roe Danyelle C. Copeland* Shandea P. Small* Brandy Lynn Corbett* Carly Jessica Smith* Collin Taylor Decker* Victoria Loren Stringfellow* JR Chavez Echaluce* Jennifer Lynn Sunderland Kelly DeAnn Epperson* Tarrayah L. Talton Rickiesha Ambreyana Evans* Latrell Andrea Taylor Dannette Furgerson* Caitlin Marie Tharp*

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Nikura Tucker Tori Anne Sparks Isabella Marie Vazquez* Carmen Celeste Spencer* Chelsea Nicole Walker* Cecilia Evon Townley* Sha’Nice Nicole Wallace* Nikesha Lemons West Kelly Parker Warlick* Crystal Renee Woods Hannah Collette Watley* Tara Marie Workman* Katrenia L. White Laura C. Wimberly* Alexi Marae’ Wooten* COLLEGE OF Evan Christian Wooten* BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY Ciara L. Wright BACHELOR DEGREE CANDIDATES FALL 2015 COLLEGE OF NURSING & SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH Ashley Dawn Adams* ASSOCIATE DEGREE James Judson Adams* CANDIDATES Thomas Dre’ Alexander* FALL 2015 Telvon Davonta Anderson* Anthony T. Arthur Bevely Constance Armand Rechelle Shawnette Bessard Denise Ogrinc Smith Brady Rachel M. Boiles* Portia Lachandrae’ Braggs Jeffrey Clark Boydstun* Anna Hayes Brewer Jesse Eugene Buck, Jr. Brittney Lynn Burnett* Keaton A. Cole Tracy Mitchell Caillouet* Victoria Brin Criswell Ingrid L. Calhoun Charles Henry Davis III Amy Renee Daniels Holly M’Lynn Davis Shandi Michelle Duffey Steven Lynn Dickson* Chiquita Tywana Fields Christopher B. Dobbins Amanda G. Fortiz* Megan MarKay Ebarb Mandi Marie Gerard* Bryan Thomas Edens Jessica Holland Heard Richard Obie Erwin Joy Michelle Hill Carlton David Estes* Chelsie Ann Hoffmann* Tiffany Gourgues Fontenot* Haylee Michel Jones Marianne Fabienne Laffia Gueye* Lori Michelle Kasprzak* Nikki Anne Howe Kasey Lee LaBorde Angela L. Hudson Zachary Charles Lachney* Nancy S. Huffman* Sherry Tee Lucas Madison Paige Hyatt Rachel K. Martin Margaret Grace Lupa Johnson* Heather Lynne McGurn Cody D’Angelo Jones* Angela Willis Merchant Daniel Roy Jones* Susan Lynn Nugent* Tyler James Juneau Mashica Mashae Pennywell* Robert Joseph Kerr Megan Elise Pierson Joshua Hayden Kezerle Jameisha L. Ratliff Wendy L. Killian Reanna Nichole Smith Robert T. Lafitte Tyler Garrett Smith* Tatiana Larina* Brittney M. Sorapuru* Taylor Kristen LeGrand*

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program Jonathan Paul Lewis Doteracalnet Satrina Scott Dexter Lavon Mayweather Lacey Vionne Seals* Brittany Danielle McConathy* Reuben Danier Small Breanna Janee’ Metoyer* Alexis Nicole Smith Frida Kristel Monjardin Navejas* Dustin Blake Smith Alexander Thomas Oetken* Sara Dawn Starling* Vivian Pedroza Reshida F. Tate Bria Leann Polk Dana Victoria Thompson* Adam Richard Poole Calli C. Trabeaux* Cameron Maurice Robinson Michael James Verbick* Brett Alexander Rodriguez* Robin Elena Wilder* David Randall Sanchez Meghan C. Woffard Brandon Rosario Schilleci Johna Elise Young

*Honor Roll for the Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree Program THE PRESIDENT’S CHAIN, REGALIA, and the MACE

The President’s Chain holds the seal of the University, which is cast in bronze. Around the black satin ribbon holding the seal are 17 engraved platelets of bronze. Each platelet bears the name of a former president of Northwestern and the years he served. Chains of similar design have been worn for centuries during ceremonies at universities. This chain is unique in recognizing the leaders who have served Northwestern while most others are original works of art.

The President’s Chain was presented to the University by The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi to commemorate the University’s commitment to academic excellence for 125 years.

The President’s Regalia was presented to Dr. James Henderson on the occasion of his investiture as the 18th President of Northwestern State University in 2015. The regalia was designed by the Student Government Association and is a gift to Dr. Henderson on behalf of the student body and symbolizes the mutual trust, respect, and collaboration between the students and the University administration.

Academic regalia dates back to the Medieval universities of Europe and is based on clerical robes worn at that time. The President’s Regalia is comprised of a purple robe and hood with velvet panels and bars with white piping in the University’s colors. The front panels are emblazoned with seal of the University, and the four bars on the sleeves are exclusive to the regalia of the President.

The Mace is a wooden staff designed and manufactured by local craftsman George Olivier of Olivier’s Fine Cypress Furniture. Crowning the top is a four- faceted block which bears casts of the four seals of the University’s history – The State Normal School, Louisiana State Normal College, Northwestern State College, and Northwestern State University of Louisiana.

The Mace originated as a weapon in the Middle Ages. Archers and other unmounted warriors used it as a hand arm. Sergeants at arms, who were guards of kings and other high officials, also carried maces. Gradually the mace gained a ceremonial character and became a symbol to denote authority.

The Mace Bearer is the President of the University’s Faculty Senate. The ceremonial Mace symbolizes the dignity and authority of the University.

Mace Bearer

Dr. Massimo Bezoari COMMENCEMENT COMMENTARY

The practice of wearing academic attire extends back to Medieval times and the Renaissance when teachers and students in European universities wore caps, gowns, and hoods. The long sleeves of the gowns and the deep hoods were used to carry books and refreshments. Each European university developed its own style of dress and strict rules for its design. In the United States, most institutions have agreed on a uniform design and color code. Although the wearing of academic regalia in this country is now limited to formal occasions, the attire may be considered the mark of the professional scholar and teacher. The style and color serve as symbols of academic achievement. Holders of the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist’s degrees wear purple gowns; the pattern and trimming differ for each degree. Originally, the bachelor’s gowns were made of serge or worsted and the master’s gowns were made of serge, worsted, or silk; but now synthetic fabrics are also used. The master’s and specialist’s gowns are distinguished by their long pointed sleeves with a slit for the arm at either the elbow or wrist. The doctor’s gown is made of silk and may be in a color other than black. It has rounded, open sleeves, and the trimming includes velvet facing down the front and three bars of velvet on the sleeves. The velvet may be black or the color appropriate to the faculty or subject to which the degree pertains. Holders of all degrees wear caps, popularly known as mortarboards, to which a long tassel, the color of which indicates the academic discipline of the degree, is fastened and hangs over the left side of the cap. Doctors and presidents of institutions may wear tassels of gold thread. At Northwestern State University, students earning bachelor’s, master’s and specialist’s degrees wear purple and white tassels and students earning associate degrees wear purple tassels. The hoods of the candidates for advanced Northwestern State University degrees are lined with the colors of the University, purple and white. The colors of the edging of hoods and tassels of the mortarboards are representative of the degree:

Arts, Letters, and Humanities...... White Education...... Baby Blue Music...... Pink Nursing...... Apricot Science...... Golden

Commencement is the most important event of the academic year on a university campus. On that occasion, the faculty traditionally recognizes the graduating class by marching in procession attired in the regalia appropriate to their degrees and the institutions where they were earned. Position in the faculty columns is determined by academic rank; persons of higher rank process first. The column is led by two marshals wearing regalia in the colors of Northwestern State University. The marshals are chosen by their faculty colleagues on the basis of distinguished service and achievement. The marshals for the 10:00 a.m. ceremony are Dr. William Dickens and Dr. Marcia McLure Hardy. The marshals for the 3:00 p.m. ceremony are Mr. Paul Pharris and Dr. Ben Rushing.

This publication is subject to changes and does not constitute a contract or an offer to contract between NSU and any other party. Every effort is made to make this printed program accurate with respect to degrees awarded and honor conferred. This commencement bulletin is not official. The student’s permanent official academic record is on file in the Office of the University Registrar.