Oakdale Practical Nursing Coordinator Recognized for Record Student Success and Outstanding Instruction
Oakdale, Louisiana – October 1, 2025
SOWELA Technical Community College proudly announces that Gary Soileau, Practical Nursing Program Coordinator at the Oakdale site, has been nominated for the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) President’s Award for Teaching Excellence. This prestigious honor celebrates faculty who demonstrate exceptional teaching, innovation, and commitment to student success across Louisiana.
During his time at SOWELA, Soileau has transformed the Oakdale Practical Nursing program by achieving the highest student retention rate in program history, leading the most recent cohort to a 100% pass rate on the rigorous NCLEX-PN exam, and guiding and mentoring future nurses who are now serving communities across the region.
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About SOWELA Technical Community College
SOWELA Technical Community College offers dynamic instruction and practical learning opportunities that prepare students to seamlessly transfer or to excel in today’s workforce. For more information, visit www.sowela.eduOpens in new tab.