Nicholls State University has named a new Dean of Nursing for the first time in 18 years.
Dr. Raquel Engolio will take over the position from Dr. Sue Westbrook, a role she has had since 2004.
Dr. Westbrook started her role as the Dean of the College of Nursing in 2004 when it was called the College of Life Science & Technology. She still holds the position of Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
Dr. Engolio joined Nicholls in 2019, serving as the department head for the Nicholls College of Nursing. Starting in May of 2000, Engolio worked over eight years as a Registered Nurse at West Jefferson Medical Center, where she served as a Pediatric Clinician, which gained her experience with pediatric acute care, intensive care, and emergency care.
Before arriving at Nicholls, she served as an assistant and associate professor at her alma mater, the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans for a total of 12 years.
In a report released by Nicholls, Engolio stated, “I am honored and grateful for this opportunity to serve as Dean of the College of Nursing at Nicholls State University. I look forward to working with faculty, students, alumni, prospective students, and the community in fulfilling our mission to deliver excellent educational opportunities in nursing that will positively impact the quality of healthcare for our community, region, and state.”
Dr. Sue Westbrook said that she is “thrilled to have her [Engolio] on board… She’s a very prepared person who is always ready for the job. She has excellent communication skills, which will serve her well in this position.”
Dr. Westbrook described Engolio as “very qualified, enthusiastic, passionate, and very energetic about her job.”