Damian Breaux, athletic training science senior from Lockport, and Kate LeBlanc, microbiology graduate from Plattenville, received the Mr. and Ms. Nicholls awards for their involvement on campus and dedication to the University. The recipients of the awards were announced at the annual Student Government Association, Student Programming Association and Student Educators and Leaders’ inaugural banquet on May 5 in the Cotillion Ballroom.
LeBlanc served as the vice president of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority and the secretary-treasurer of the Student Programming Association. She was a member of the Nicholls Orientation Team, Nicholls Biological Society, the Order of Omega, Sigma Tau Delta, the Student Affairs Advisory Board and the University Honors Program. LeBlanc was inducted to the Nicholls State University Hall of Fame, was a member of the 2004 Homecoming Court and was recognized in the 2004 and 2005 editions of “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.”
LeBlanc said that being named Ms. Nicholls was the “grand finale” of her senior year. She said that during her time as a student, her greatest contribution to Nicholls was showing school spirit. As a member of the Nicholls Orientation Team, LeBlanc said that she was often chosen to excite the new students.
“If there was nothing to do, they would be like, ‘Kate, go take the microphone and play a game,'” LeBlanc said. “I was able to pump people up about Nicholls, especially incoming freshmen.”
Breaux served as president of the Student Government Association from 2004 to 2006 and vice chair and secretary of the Louisiana Council of Student Body Presidents. He also served as chair of the University of Louisiana System Student Advisory Committee and secretary of the Nicholls Student Athletic Trainers Society. Breaux is a member of Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship. He was the 2004 Homecoming King and was recognized in the 2004 and 2005 editions of “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.”
Breaux said that the award represents the students’ appreciation of his two years of SGA work and involvement around campus.
“I made sure the students’ voice was heard,” Breaux said. “I tried not to put my own goals ahead of theirs.”
Eugene Dial, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Services, said that Breaux and LeBlanc “exemplify the Nicholls motto of ‘Learn, Live, Lead’ on a daily basis.”
“They have a strong sense of purpose, are committed to positive change and lead through example,” Dial said.
LeBlanc said that when she begins teaching biology at Assumption High School in the fall she plans to “really boast Nicholls.”
“I’m going to continue to be a part of Nicholls in a small way,” LeBlanc said. “I would like everyone to have the chance to experience what I did.
