With four children at home, Olinda Ricard, culinary arts senior from Baton Rouge, has not let that stop her from becoming involved at Nicholls. Ricard is a senator at large in the Student Government Association, chairperson for the multicultural speakers committee for the Student Programming Association, secretary for National Association for Advancement of Colored People, culinary honor society member and a junior for American Culinary Federation.”

Q: What are the best memories of your college experiences?

A: “The best memories are having the opportunity to be involved in so many things on campus, even though I, as a 30-year-old single mom with four kids, am not a traditional student. I think that more non-traditional students should become involved.”

Q: Do you think that diversity is a problem at Nicholls?

A: “I think that it definitely is a challenge. There are not a lot of things for diversity on campus; I plan to change that.”

Q: How do you think that diversity could be improved?

A: “I think that it could definitely be improved if students commit some time to brainstorm for activities than can be offered.”

Q: What would you like to change at Nicholls?

A: “The only thing that I would change is having organizations collaborating on events to avoid repetition of events. I think that overall it makes the event more successful.”

Q: Why did you choose to be involved in SPA and SGA?

A: “I really decided to become more involved because I like to know what is going on. I like to develop solutions to any problem. In SPA, I saw a need for a more diverse program.”

Q: What multicultural events have you or will you be planning?

A: “We have the Hispanic dance party on Sept. 23 because this month is Hispanic heritage month. On Oct. 17-21, we are planning a ‘diversity week’ with events for Native American heritage month. It is open for all organizations to come up with an activity.”

Q: How has the storm affected you?

A: “Personally, it has not had a devastating effect on me, but I have family members who have lost homes. There was actually a good twist to it because I got to meet my great-aunt and her husband for the first time.”

Q: What have you gained from your involvement in SPA and SGA?

A: “It has increased my confidence in public speaking and in debating. It has made me unafraid to be true to myself.”

Q: What has been your biggest obstacle through college?

A: “Time is definitely it. Other than being able to fulfill all of my duties on campus, I also need to spend quality time with my kids. What I do here not only helps the school but helps me with my dreams.