LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA – May 22, 2018
The SOWELA Foundation awarded The Oliver G. “Rick” and Donna G. Richard III Endowed Professorship to Graphic Art Instructor Erik Jessen at a recent employee appreciation luncheon. This is the first professorship awarded at the College. To be considered for the professorship, faculty must apply or be nominated by students, peers, staff, administrators, external organizations, or community members and submit a proposal detailing how the award would be used to further the mission of the College.
“This award encourages excellence in scholarship and instruction while recognizing the exceptional contributions of our outstanding faculty,” Paula Hellums, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
“Mr. Jessen displays incredible artistic ability, provides the College and community enduring pieces, and offers his students artistic insights that are second to none. Awarding the endowed professorship to him will ensure that his good work continues for the College and the Southwest Louisiana community for years to come,” Dr. David Shankle, Dean of Business and Applied Technology.
The professorship was made possible through the generosity of a donation made by Oliver G. “Rick” and Donna G. Richard III and with matching funds provided by the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund.
SOWELA Foundation promotes community stewardship and empowers students of SOWELA Technical Community College to launch their careers through scholarships, professorships, staff development, technological advancements, program improvements, and capital expansion. Donations go directly to the College to help provide students with a world class education in Southwest Louisiana.