At Northwestern State University of Louisiana, the President’s Leadership Program (PLP) allows students to grow as leaders through academics, community service and meaningful projects. This spring, the program has been active with various initiatives including senior citizen, literacy programs, campus beautification and health campaigns.
Dean of Students and Vice President for the Student Experience Reatha Cox explained that PLP is aligned with the university’s mission to foster student engagement and empower future leaders.
Each semester, students partake in community impact projects tailored to their interests and the needs of the local community. “Students have the freedom to focus on what matters most to them,” Cox said. “These projects not only develop their leadership skills but also address genuine needs in the community.”
One of PLP’s standout contributions this spring was hosting the annual Red River Special Olympics held on the university’s campus. The program has been involved with the Special Olympics since 2017.
Abby Robinson, a freshman health and human performance major, and member of PLP helped plan and execute the event. Robinson was a member of this year’s Special Olympics impact group.
“Knowing that I was part of something bigger than myself was rewarding in so many ways,” Robinson said. “Seeing how excited the athletes were made all the hard work worth it.”
Robinson emphasized the collaborative effort behind the event, which brought together PLP students, faculty, the Special Olympics board and community members. The athletes were celebrated not only for their achievements but also for their enthusiastic spirit. The event also featured activities ranging from competitive sports to a non-competitive arts festival.
Scott Maggio, a member of the Natchitoches Area Jaycees, highlighted the importance of their $500 donation that funded participation ribbons for the athletes. The Natchitoches Area Jaycees is a group of young professionals committed to community service, leadership development and organizing local events. They aim to make a positive impact in the Natchitoches area while fostering personal and professional growth.
“These athletes want to be treated like any other athletes,” Maggio said. “The memories and excitement they experience go far beyond any single donation.”
Maggio shared that witnessing the joy on athletes’ faces and the pride of their families during the Special Olympics is among the most memorable moments for the Jaycees. “For one day a year, these athletes are in the spotlight, living out their dreams like superstars,” he said. “We’re fortunate to be their biggest cheerleaders.”
Robinson reflected on her personal growth and on a key lesson she learned from PLP’s Jelly Bean Project, which emphasized the value of time and making the most of every day.
“It puts into perspective how I need to make the most of every day because every day is a gift,” she said.
The friendships that Robinson formed and the leadership skills she gained have made her time in the program unforgettable.
“I’ve been given so many opportunities and experiences because of this program,” she said.
PLP continues to shape student leaders while making a difference in the Natchitoches community.
By bringing students, faculty and community partners together, PLP creates opportunities to foster inclusion, tackle community challenges and cultivate leadership that leaves a lasting impact. As the spring semester continues, the PLP is a testament, for NSU students and the Natchitoches community alike, that leadership is about serving others and creating a legacy of positive change.
