Louisiana commissioner of higher education makes stop in Lake Charles

LAKE CHARLES, LA (KPLC) - Dr. Kim Hunter Reed, the Louisiana Commissioner of Higher Education, has deemed October 1 as “First Generation Student Day”.

To kick off the day, she started at McNeese State University to celebrate those who were first in their family to receive higher education.

“Louisiana needs your talent," Reed said.

She visited Lake Charles as part of her “I’m First Campaign” which encourages those who are the first in their families to persevere and know that they’re not alone.

“It made me feel very comforted and loved to know that someone who we don’t even know came here to root for us—to be a first generation college student," said Hanna Bertand, a first generation freshmen at McNeese.

Reed visited SOWELA Technical Community College as well. She gathered with community stakeholders and brainstormed ideas to make the best environment for students.

“I was so excited about the diversity in the room. We had K-12 and elected officials, mayors, and industry. It was a great opportunity for me to listen in and ask some questions about how we’re doing and how we can get better." said Reed.

For a look at the “I’m first Campaign”, you can follow @LA_Regents on twitter.

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