University President Stephen Hulbert presented 506 students with degrees on Dec. 16 in Stopher Gym for the fall commencement ceremonies. Five baccalaureate graduates earned degrees with the highest academic honors, summa cum laude.

They were Kristie Matherne, elementary education graduate from Bourg; Elizabeth Trahan, communicative disorders graduate from Erath; Jennifer Page, English graduate from Belle Chasse; Brett Dupre, English graduate from Patterson and Shelly Parfait, accounting graduate from Houma.

Glynn Boyd, a 1984 Nicholls alumnus and television reporter for WGNO in New Orleans, presented the graduation address. “Being given the opportunity to speak to the graduation students was an unbelievable experience,” Boyd said.

Boyd’s speech focused on his experiences at Nicholls, things he has done with the communication arts degree he earned from Nicholls, and what the newly graduating students should expect in the working world.

Several students who graduated had positive things to say about Nicholls and their overall graduation experience.

Devon Bardin, history graduate from DeRidder, said it was great to get a degree and learn about something that interests you.

“Nicholls is a great college,” Bardin said. “While attending Nicholls, you became part of a big family.”

William Keller, allied health profession practice graduate from Luling, said the most memorable moments about graduation were walking across the stage and picking up his diploma with his name on it.

“All the pressure is lifted off your shoulders because you finally did it,” he said.

Keller is presently working as an athletic trainer at Oschner’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center in New Orleans.

Cade Voisin, mass communication graduate from Houma, said he thought the speech by Boyd was great.

“It was awesome to hear the success story of someone with the same educational background as [myself],” said Voisin.

He is now working as the Sports Director at Sunburst Media and Program Director from ESPN AM 1490 radio station in Houma.