Northwestern State University bestowed a special honor on Keith Alexander, assistant executive director of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association, for his service to high school student-athletes.

Alexander received the Nth Degree from the university, a special honor to recognize meritorious service to others, during a surprise presentation at the Louisiana Cross Country Championships, hosted at NSU this week.

“Mr. Alexander has had a powerful and positive impact on education and athletics for more than four decades,” said NSU President Dr. Chris Maggio. “As a coach, teacher, principal, superintendent and a state administrator for high school athletics, Mr. Alexander has earned a position of respect and esteem with student athletes, parents and others with whom he has been associated over the years in supporting, directing and promoting high school athletic events and activities.”

“He has been a major force in the continued success of events such as these cross-country championships,” said NSU Athletic Director Greg Burke, who joined Maggio for the presentation.

“On behalf of the students, faculty and alumni of Northwestern, Mr. Burke and I are honored to present the university’s prestigious Nth Degree to Mr. Alexander for his dedication to education, community service and the university,” Maggio said.