Student Government Association President Olinda Ricard became the first Nicholls SGA president in more than 20 years to be elected as a student member to the Board of Supervisors for the University of Louisiana System. Ricard’s fellow SGA presidents in the ULS elected her to the board where she will serve as a voting member on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Presidential Search Committee. She will also serve on the Academic and Student Affairs, Athletics, Grievances and Legislative committees.

Ricard said she has the same responsibilities and privileges as other board members including managing funds for the system’s institutions, determining course curricula and approving requests of universities to acquire land and construct or renovate buildings.

“I think the most exciting thing for me is the opportunity to learn more about the board’s responsibilities and about the uniqueness of each of the ULS universities,” Ricard said. “A major goal for me is to collaborate with my fellow student government presidents to determine the best practices for ensuring that we, as students, receive a top notch education in pristine facilities by competent faculty.”

Ricard, business management senior from Killeen, Texas, said her position on the board would give Nicholls a voice on issues that directly affect the University.

“It is important that students become more aware of the important role we play in the quality of education we receive,” she said. “We have tremendous power and influence and should make it a point to take advantage of every opportunity which comes our way to create positive change.”

In regards to managing her busy schedule, Ricard said it will be a tremendous challenge and test of her time management skills.

“Insuring that my responsibilities here on campus are fulfilled in a timely and excellent manner will be my ability to rely heavily on my executive board and the senators of the student government,” Ricard said.