Nicholls State University capped off its 2025 Homecoming Week with the crowning of Jaiden Valure as Homecoming King and Alyce Ledet as Homecoming Queen during halftime of Saturday’s football game.

For Valure, the moment was both humbling and surreal. He said being crowned king was an honor that reflected the confidence the student body placed in him and the pride he feels in representing the university.

“When I heard my name, everything went blank for a second,” Valure said. “It took me a minute to realize I had actually won.”

Valure, who is active in several campus organizations, said the recognition represents years of dedication and involvement at Nicholls. He plans to continue being a visible and supportive leader on campus, attending events and encouraging new students to get involved.

He credited his family, fraternity and faith for helping him reach this point, saying their support shaped him into the person he is today.

Ledet, who said she is still in disbelief about being named queen, called the experience emotional and meaningful for her and her family.

“My parents met here at Nicholls,” she said. “So continuing my family’s legacy through this honor means everything to me.”

Ledet, a member of Phi Mu and the Honors Program, said she hopes to continue representing her organizations with pride and gratitude. She thanked her friends, sorority sisters and family for their encouragement throughout the experience.

Both Valure and Ledet said Homecoming Week was filled with memorable moments, but for Valure, Saturday’s tailgate stood out most. He said it was a chance to interact with students, alumni and organizations across campus.

Ledet said her favorite event was the pirogue races, where the court bonded and met other students in a relaxed setting.

When asked what advice they would give future homecoming hopefuls, both offered words of encouragement. Valure said, “Shoot for the stars because you never know where you’ll land.” Ledet added, “No dream is ever too big.”