Nicholls Department of Social Sciences

08/25/2026

We’ve heard your questions about the Poverty Simulation—and we’re glad you’re asking! 👀💙

What is it, and why does it belong in higher education?

A Poverty Simulation is an experiential learning opportunity that helps participants better understand the complex social, economic, and systemic barriers people experiencing poverty may face. It is not meant to replicate anyone’s lived experience, but to encourage awareness, empathy, and critical thinking.

Higher education prepares students not only for careers, but also to become informed professionals and engaged citizens. In fields such as healthcare, education, social services, business, government, and public policy, students may make decisions that affect individuals and families experiencing economic hardship.

By connecting classroom learning to real-world challenges, Poverty Simulations help students consider how factors such as housing, transportation, employment, childcare, healthcare, and access to services shape people’s choices and opportunities.

Watch the video to learn more about this valuable educational experience.

Understanding builds empathy—and empathy helps create meaningful change. 💙



Sign Up Here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A094FA8AA2EA7FB6-65262841-poverty #/

Each year, the Office of Metropolitan Impact and Student Affairs wo...

08/20/2026

Today’s SOWK300: Human Diversity & Social Justice course mapped social locations using an experiential "Identity Web" exercise.

By physically linking axes of privilege, marginalization, and practitioner positionality, students visually demonstrated how systemic forces impact client ecosystems- shifting the clinical focus from static "cultural competence" to continuous self-scrutiny.

08/18/2026

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. David Whitney for his outstanding leadership and service as Department Head of Social Sciences!

Under Dr. Whitney’s leadership, our department experienced tremendous growth, positive change, and meaningful progress. His dedication, vision, and commitment strengthened our programs, supported our faculty and students, and helped move the Department of Social Sciences forward in countless ways. We are incredibly grateful for the lasting impact of his leadership and service.

While Dr. Whitney has stepped down from the Department Head role, we are fortunate that he isn’t going far! He will continue serving the Department of Social Sciences as Senior Faculty Advisor, as well as Professor and Program Coordinator for Political Science. In this new role, his experience, leadership, and institutional knowledge will continue to be an invaluable resource to our department.

Thank you, Dr. Whitney, for your leadership, dedication, and all you have done—and continue to do—for the Department of Social Sciences. We are grateful to have you with us as we begin this next chapter!

08/17/2026

Welcome back, Colonels! We hope you had a restful break and are ready for a great semester ahead. Whether you’re returning to campus or beginning your college journey, we wish you a semester filled with new opportunities, meaningful connections, personal growth, and success. We’re glad you’re here and can’t wait to see all that you accomplish!

Have a great semester!
— Department of Social Sciences

08/15/2026

We’re hiring! ❤️💛
Bridge to Independence is looking for Peer Mentors to join our team at Nicholls State University!
If you’re a Nicholls student who enjoys helping others, building connections, and making a difference on campus, we’d love to have you apply. All majors are welcome, and morning availability is preferred.
📲 Scan the QR code to apply!

08/14/2026

🎉 Welcome Jena Ourso, LCSW, to the Department of Social Sciences! 🎉

We are excited to welcome Jena Ourso to the Colonel family as an Instructor of Social Work!

Jena is no stranger to Nicholls—she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice from Nicholls State University before earning her Master of Social Work from Louisiana State University, where she also completed a certificate in Gerontology.

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Jena brings a wealth of clinical knowledge and diverse professional experience to our students. Throughout her career, she has worked in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, community health clinics, and correctional facilities.

Jena is fully certified in the Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach (A-CRA), an evidence-based behavioral treatment model supporting adolescents and young adults experiencing substance use and co-occurring behavioral health challenges. She also serves as an Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Educator for the Greater Baton Rouge area, providing education and advocacy on childhood adversity and the importance of trauma-informed approaches.

In addition to her clinical and educational work, Jena provides professional workshops and continuing education focused on effective and affirming practice with LGBTQIA+ clients.

We are thrilled to have Jena bring her clinical expertise, passion for education, and commitment to the social work profession to our students and program.

❤️🩶 Welcome home to Nicholls and to the Colonel family, Jena! 🩶❤️

08/14/2026

Meet Our New Department Head!

The Department of Social Sciences is excited to welcome Dr. Melinda Jefferson into her new role as Department Head!

Dr. Jefferson has been part of the Nicholls family since 2017, serving as an Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice and Criminal Justice Program Coordinator. Throughout her time at Nicholls, she has made a lasting impact through her teaching, research, mentorship, and dedication to our students.

From advising student organizations and mentoring faculty to supporting campus initiatives, Dr. Jefferson brings a true passion for students and the Nicholls community to everything she does.

We are so excited for this next chapter and the leadership she will bring to the Department of Social Sciences! ❤️🩶

Congratulations, Dr. Jefferson! We’re lucky to have you leading the way! ⚔️

07/07/2026

NOW HIRING: Programming and Reentry Case Manager. Apply online at www.LPSO.net/APPLY.

07/06/2026

Great job opening!

06/18/2026

➡WE’RE HIRING: SHELTER ASSISTANTS

The Haven is seeking compassionate, dedicated individuals to support survivors and their children in our emergency shelter.

In this role, you will:
✨ Provide crisis support and advocacy
✨ Answer crisis hotline calls
✨ Help maintain a safe, welcoming shelter environment
✨ Make a meaningful difference every single day

Available Shifts:
🕑 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
🕒 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
📌 Full-Time & Part-Time Positions Available

If you have a heart for service and want to support survivors on their journey toward safety and healing, we’d love to hear from you.

📧 Apply today: [email protected]
🌐 More details: https://havenhelps.org/career-opportunities