NATCHITOCHES – The Creole Heritage Center at Northwestern State University has developed a strategic plan that reconfirms its mission and will guide its future programing. The public to one of three upcoming information sessions where highlights of the plan will be presented.

According to Dr. Kent Peacock, director of the Creole Heritage Center, development of the plan took two years and came out of discussions with CHC staff, the CHC’s Advisory Council, Creoles from throughout Louisiana and the nation,, the NSU community and representatives from cultural heritage, political, business and educational entities. An electronic survey distributed last year collected additional input from more than 500 responders. The plan’s creation was financially supported by the Cane River National Heritage Area.

The upcoming strategic plan informationals are of particular interest to all those interested in the CHC’s revised mission of preserving, educating and advocating the value and significance of the vibrant Louisiana Creole people and their culture, as well as in NSU’s role in preserving the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Louisiana and providing students with hands-on experience in this growing field.

The first will take place from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30 at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 2262 Hwy 484, Natchez, Louisiana.  A second session will take place via webinar from 8-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 31.  Anyone interested in joining should contact the Creole Heritage Center for log in information.  The third session will be from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8 in the President’s Room of the Sylvan Friedman Student Union on the NSU campus.

The Creole Heritage Center opened its doors as a part of NSU in 1998 and became a respected and trusted leader of the “Creole Renaissance,” the movement to preserve and advocate for Louisiana Creoles and their heritage. The Center is located in Kyser Hall Room 116.  Hours are 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Thursday or by appointment.

For more information about the Creole Heritage Center or for information on the Aug. 31 webinar, call (318) 357-6685 or visit https://www.nsula.edu/creole/.