Long Purple Line inductees, outstanding alumni honored as part of NSU Homecoming festivities

Pictured: Six alumni were inducted into Northwestern State University's Long Purple Line, the university's alumni hall of distinction. From left are Doug Ireland, Henry Burns, Dr. Chris Maggio, Robert "Skeeter" Salim and Dr. Steve Horton (back row). The late Jack Brittain Jr. was represented by his sisters, Judge Lala Sylvester, Dr. Cissy Picou, Rebecca Morris, Eliza Behrendsen and Cookie Richardson.

October 25, 2024

NATCHITOCHES - Six distinguished Northwestern State University alumni were inducted into the university's alumni hall of distinction, the Long Purple Line, and several others recognized for service to the university during a lunch and induction program Oct. 25.

Long Purple Line inductees were the late Jack Brittain Jr., Henry Burns of Haughton and Dr. Steve Horton, Doug Ireland, Dr. Chris Maggio and Robert "Skeeter" Salim, all of Natchitoches.

Induction into the Long Purple Line is the highest honor the university bestows on alumni.

The Northwestern State Alumni Association also presented additional awards to recognize distinguished service, volunteerism and outstanding support for the university. Award winners are as follows.

Leighann Westfall received the Outstanding Young Alumnus/Alumna Distinguished Service Award. This award is presented to an individual who graduated within the past 10 years and has shown continued interest in serving the university as a volunteer, donor and /or advocate.

Carrie Beth Hough received the Outstanding Alumnus/Alumna Distinguished Service Award. This award is presented to an individual with a record of distinguished service to the university's programs and mission.

Patricia Hrapmann and Virginia Monceret were named NSU Alumni Association Volunteers of the Year, which honors those with an exemplary record of volunteering their time, talents and service to the NSU Alumni Association.

Sid and Frank Hall received the Distinguished Supporter Service Award, which recognizes individuals who did not graduate from NSU but who have supported the university through academics, athletics, involvement or advocacy.

The Long Purple Line induction program was held in conjunction with Northwestern State Homecoming festivities and the celebration of the 140^th anniversary of the university's founding in 1884.

Earlier in the day, James T. Genovese was invested as Northwestern State's 21^st president. Friday's festivities continued with the annual parade and pep rally in downtown Natchitoches.

The NSU Homecoming celebration will continue on Saturday, Oct. 26. A schedule of events is available at https://www.nsula.edu/join-the-nsu-homecoming-celebration-oct-25-26/.