March 20, 2025

NATCHITOCHES – In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Gail Metoyer Jones Center at Northwestern State University recognizes the remarkable contributions of women faculty and staff who have profoundly impacted students’ academic success and personal growth.

“Honoring women is essential to fostering a culture of appreciation, empowerment, and progress,” said Dr. Jasmine Wise, assistant professor, coordinator of Black studies and coordinator of the Jones Center. “These women have played a vital role in shaping education, leadership and student success, often going above and beyond their duties to mentor, inspire and uplift others. Recognizing their efforts encourages future generations by showcasing strong female role models, strengthens community and support and fosters an environment where all contributions are celebrated.

Students were invited to nominate women at NSU who have inspired them—those who have gone above and beyond to provide support, encouragement and mentorship.

After reviewing the following nomination statements, the following honorees were selected for their dedication and commitment to student success.

 Anna Dugas, assistant professor of physics and School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics facilitator – “Professor Dugas has inspired me to try something I’ve never envisioned I would be trying: robotics. Her demonstration on the field was so interesting that it made me try something new. Throughout the learning process, she has been very helpful in guiding me and providing me the resources needed to continue working with robots.”

Ashley Briggs, director of Student Academic Services for the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health – “Mrs. Briggs works hard every day for the Shreveport students to succeed in their education. She balances Student Government Association, Student Nurses’ Association, academic advising, teaching, student services and raising two beautiful children. She deserves every award there is. I know many students who are grateful for her support and dedication.”

Dr. Cynthia Doffit, associate professor in the Department of Biology and Microbiology – “Dr. Doffitt is one of the best research mentors in the biology department. She always supports me and my lab mates with our crazy ideas and makes sure that we always know why we are doing something and not just giving us directions. She had taught me so much and I have not yet had the privilege to take one of the classes she offers. Dr. Doffitt is one of those professors that you never forget and that I will always keep in touch with.”

Dr. T. Davina McClain, professor of Classics, Louisiana Scholars’ College – “Davina has been an incredible inspiration to me in so many ways, impacting my personal, professional and academic growth profoundly. As a brilliant professor, she has a unique ability to connect with her students and make each one of us feel valued and important. Her dedication to teaching goes beyond the classroom; she genuinely cares about our well-being and success, and this has made a significant difference in my life.”

Jacqueline Blakes, assistant professor in the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health – “Jackie Blakes has advised me since starting the NSU program and implemented fundamental skills learned in Med Surg, and they have made every challenge a breeze with the tools she provides to accomplish bedside nursing efficiently and above all safely.”

Dr. Jennifer Hill, associate professor of Chemistry – “Dr. Hill genuinely cares about her students, wants to see them succeed and she will do everything in her power to assist in that process. She is always there to answer any questions, whether they be related to the course, or just if you need someone to talk to. Dr. Hill is always willing to provide advice in any situation and is the biggest cheerleader for her students. Dr. Hill’s passion for teaching helps motivate her students, and it is a good feeling to know that you have her in your corner! Lastly, I feel as though the amount of times Dr. Hill has told me, ‘I believe in you or ‘You can do it,’ as simple as it may be, has helped me in not only her classes, but other classes as well! She is a truly inspiring professor with a heart of gold.”

Additionally, the following women were nominated in recognition of their invaluable contributions:

Beverly Broadway, instructor in the Department of Psychology – “She constantly creates new ways to reach students in the classroom to make learning enjoyable and make math easier.”

Brittany Broussard, instructor and director of Culture and Climate – “She has inspired me to better prepare myself for life after college.”

Dr. Carmella Parker, School of Business – “She is a natural born leader. She has so many accomplishments and she is an inspiration to all of the young adults in her classes. She pushes us to strive to be our best each and every day and she sees the potential in all of us.”

Christine Ferrell, instructor in the Department of English, Languages and Cutural Studies – “Christine is one of the kindest individuals I have ever worked with. She creates beautiful events for the department, is a tremendous resource to students and makes any room she is in better. She is more than deserving of recognition.”

Dr. Rebecca Macijeski, assistant professor in the Department of English, Languages and Cultural Studies – “Dr. Macijeski is one of my favorite professors here at NSU. She goes above and beyond in her classes and makes meaningful connections with her students. I always feel valued and understood when in her classes, and she makes sure everyone is comfortable and heard.”

Dr. Shaun Wheat, assistant professor in the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health – “She inspired me by showing how compassionate she can be towards others and pushing me to be the greatest I can be. She also is very motivational and helps me whenever she can. This shows that there are sincere people in this field and I love her for that.”

“The honorees are presented with awards as a token of appreciation for their leadership,” Wise said. “NSU is proud to celebrate these women and their commitment to fostering an environment of academic excellence and student empowerment. Thank you to these exceptional women who have demonstrated unwavering support and leadership, leaving a lasting impact on the NSU community.”

For more information about this recognition or future initiatives, contact wise at wisej@nsula.edu.