A Louisiana judge has ordered the suspension of all board member access to the financial accounts of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation following allegations of unauthorized transactions and missing documentation.

Judge Jimmie C. Peters of the 10th Judicial District Court signed the order Oct. 13, granting sole access to court-appointed special master Christopher M. Sylvia. The ruling comes in an ongoing lawsuit filed by Citizens of Democratic Action Inc. and Helen Obioha against the foundation.

According to court documents filed by Sylvia, a CPA hired by the foundation discovered debit card transactions and cash withdrawals from an NCIF checking account that lacked supporting records or documentation. Mark Thomas, the accountant, had been retained to analyze financial records and prepare tax returns for the period from January 2019 to the present.

The motion states that despite requests for documentation to explain the purchases and withdrawals, no records were provided to account for the transactions.

Under the new order, no board member of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation may access any bank account, investment account or funds belonging to the organization. Only Sylvia has been authorized to access accounts and financial records.

The court also ordered that any investment brokers, financial institutions, banks or other entities holding NCIF funds may only release property to third parties as instructed by Sylvia. He now has signing authority on behalf of the foundation.

Sylvia’s motion noted that he had previously controlled all NCIF funds but had turned over control to the newly elected board. The special master was appointed by the court as part of the litigation between the community organization and the foundation.

The case is docketed as number 94091B in Natchitoches Parish. Attorneys Connor L. Dillon, Jeffery H. Thomas and Alan Pesnell are copied on the order.

A letter dated Sept. 2 from Peters to the Natchitoches Parish clerk of court indicates the executed order was sent electronically to avoid the need for formal service, though counsel were notified.

The foundation could not immediately be reached for comment.

BOARD MEMBERS

According to a May 2025 order filed in the case, the following individuals were identified as board members or representatives of the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation:

Earnestine Armstrong
Takesha Barnum
Harold Bayonne Sr.
Marvin Blake Jr.
Linda Franklin
Brenda Milner
Helen Obioba
Tan’Keia Palmer
Rene Porter
Deborah Roque
Ernest Sawyer
Kevin Stafford
Jerry Walters
Yvette Williams
Davin White

The court order suspending board access to financial accounts applies to all board members of the organization.

See ALL DOCUMENTS and RELATED BACKGROUND below:

A traffic stop and 38-mile vehicle pursuit that ended in a single-vehicle crash on I-49 near Rapides Station in Rapides Parish resulted in the arrests of a male and female suspect, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright. It began on Oct. 29, around 10:30 a.m., when NPSO Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby, working a special speed enforcement detail, attempted to stop a 2015 GMC Yukon traveling southbound on I-49 near mile marker #132 for speeding 88 miles per hour in a posted 75 mph zone.

When Cpl. Kerby exited her patrol unit and attempted to make contact with the female driver, the driver fled the scene. A pursuit ensued southbound on I-49. Louisiana State Police Troop-E (Alexandria) was contacted to assist, along with additional NPSO deputies. The pursuit continued southbound, reaching speeds in excess of 100 mph. The suspect vehicle avoided a tire deflation device deployed by deputies north of Chopin, exited the interstate at Chopin, then re-entered I-49 and exited again at Lena. Deputies reported the vehicle struck several guardrails during the pursuit.

The pursuit entered Rapides Parish, where Louisiana State Police Troopers successfully deployed a tire deflation device near Rapides Station. The vehicle continued a short distance before the driver apparently lost control, causing the Yukon to overturn and come to rest in the right lane of the interstate.

Following the crash, a male and female fled on foot down an embankment, crossing a ditch and fence before being taken into custody by Louisiana State Police Troopers without further incident.

Both suspects were transported by Pafford Ambulance to an Alexandria hospital for treatment of minor injuries and later released.

As a result of the investigation:

•Charidi S. Lopez, 44, of Mission, Texas, the driver, was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on Louisiana State Police charges.

She also faces the following Natchitoches Parish charges:
Speeding 88/75
Speeding 100+/75
No Seat Belt
Aggravated Flight from an Officer

•Wilbur L. Heard Jr., of Birmingham, Alabama, the passenger, was found to be wanted in Alabama on outstanding warrants. Heard was transported and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center on those warrants and additional State Police charges.

Louisiana State Police Troop-E Troopers investigated the crash. When questioned by deputies about her decision to flee, Lopez reportedly stated she “didn’t want Heard to go to jail.”

Sheriff Stuart Wright commended the professionalism and teamwork displayed by all responding agencies.

“This incident shows the dangers our deputies and state troopers face daily when motorists choose to flee instead of complying with lawful orders,” said Sheriff Wright. “We’re grateful for the seamless coordination and support from the Louisiana State Police and the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office in bringing this pursuit to a safe conclusion.”

The investigation is continuing. Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby was assisted by Deputy Lt. M. Powell, Deputy Sgt. C. Olliff, Louisiana State Police, Troop-E Troopers and Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office. Mugshots are currently unavailable while they remain in the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

Natchitoches   34
Huntington  14

SHREVEPORT – The Natchitoches Central Chiefs football team notched a key District 1-5A victory over Huntington Thursday night at Independence Stadium, with 20 unanswered second-half points fueling a 33-14 win over the Raiders.

NCHS improved to 5-4 overall and 3-4 in the district with one regular-season game remaining, next Friday at Benton (2-7, 1-6).

Huntington fell to 3-6 overall, 3-4 in district.

The win will boost the Chiefs’ LHSAA power ranking, as would a victory next Friday, as other bubble teams lose. The Chiefs were not among the state’s top 24 in Non-Select Division I before beating the Raiders, and the two dozen highest-ranked teams reach the playoffs.

NCHS overcame four turnovers to win. Senior quarterback Owen Smith ran for touchdowns of 12 and 2 yards and threw a 14-yard scoring pass to Demarcus Nicholas. Chiefs’ workhorse Kelton Howard ran for a 4-yard TD and Kaden Kuykendoll scored on a 14-yard scamper.

The Natchitoches Police Department would like to encourage parents and children to follow the following safety tips while trick-or-treating for Halloween.

• Only trick-or-treat during the City’s observed hours of 5-8 p.m.
• Children should trick-or-treat in groups or with a responsible adult.
• Realistic replica firearms should never be used.
• Children should always use the sidewalk, not the street for walking and should look in all directions before crossing the street. If walking on the street is necessary, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Parents should know what route their children will be taking.
• Only approach a home with the porch light lit.
• Children should never accept rides from strangers.
• Children should never eat any treats until they have been examined.

Additional officers will patrol neighborhoods so everyone can have a safe and happy Halloween.

If you would like to report suspicious activity please contact the Natchitoches Police Department at (318) 352-8101. Remember all information given shall remain confidential.

How to report an anonymous tip via Natchitoches Crime Stoppers:

You can also report a tip anonymously by downloading the P3 Tips app on your smart phone or by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388. All tips remain confidential and the caller can receive a cash reward up to $5,000 for the arrest of an offender.

First United Methodist Church is seeking an experienced professional to manage and supervise the maintenance and repair of buildings and systems for our church properties.

Requires:

– familiarity with relevant building codes, safety standards, and insurance requirements;

– ability to create and maintain computer generated preventative maintenance schedules and prepare and present status reports to the Church Board;

– coordinate and supervise custodial staff; and participate in budget and staff meetings.

Physical Requirements:

– stand, walk, carry, and lift 50 lbs.; perform indoor and outdoor tasks;

– possess tool and equipment skills.

Salary Range:

$30K – $40K

Contact:

Valerie Manring (Business Administrator) at valerie@fumcnla.org or call (318) 357-8296, #xt. 326.

The Natchitoches Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. presented “Heart of My Sister,” a Domestic Violence Awareness Program, on Oct. 25. Guest speaker Mrs. Shermane Reed shared insights and encouragement for survivors and advocates. Community partners include Project Celebration, Inc. and Cane River Children’s Services.

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THIBODAUX — While a share of a Southland Conference title is impressive, winning it outright is even more impressive.

The Northwestern soccer team (12-4-3, 7-2-1) put an exclamation point on a conference championship with a 5-0 road win at Nicholls (4-9-5, 1-5-4) on Thursday night to claim outright possession of the SLC regular season crown.

“We played really well tonight,” head coach Ian Brophy said. “We were able to get three goals right away with Riley, Paige and Emily and really put us in good position to win. We were able to rebound and play our brand of futbol.”

The Demons scored three times in the first 23 minutes, as NSU left no doubt in rebounding following a 2-0  setback a week ago at Lamar. Paige Baumgarner, Emily Senatore and Riley Stern put distance between Northwestern and Nicholls midway through the opening half.

The victory clinched the top overall seed in next week’s SLC Tournament at Beaumont.

Baumgartner scored in the 11th minute, her eighth goal of the season, to set the tone. Despite only playing 24 minutes, she scored three points with a goal and an assist.

“Paige played really well,” Brophy said. “She was active right away and with the three points and she was a big reason why we had the 3-0 lead at halftime. It was good we were able to get the big lead and give her some rest before the tournament.”

Her 18 points are tied for third in the conference in overall games, tied with teammate Riley Stern, who had a spectacular day of her own. The redshirt junior from Fort Worth collected her first multi-goal game with a pair of goals to push her point total to 18.

While Baumgartner scored the first goal in the 11th minute, and Stern scored the third and fifth goals, the SLC’s leading scorer found the back of the net for the second tally.

Senatore, who tied for the team lead with Dawson Marrs with five shot attempts, scored her 12th goal of the season, tied for the most in the conference.

Her 12 goals ties Kayce Schultz for the seventh-most in a single season in NSU history, while her 23 career goals ties N-Club Hall of Famer Hillarie Marshall Coleman for eighth all-time.

The Demons used an 11-1 shots edge in the first half to put away the game in the first half, leading 3-0 at recess.

Overall, Northwestern outshot Nicholls 23-8.

NSU used a pair of goals in the second half to put the stamp on the dominating performance. The first one came on an own goal in the 74th minute before Stern collected her second of the game in the 86th minute.

The only item left to accomplish was to keep a zero on the scoreboard for Nicholls. Kennedy Rist made sure of that. Overall, she recorded three saves, but none more impressive than her penalty kick save.

Shortly after Stern’s second goal, Nicholls received a penalty kick after a foul in the box.

Mia Gallina’s shot was saved on a leaping stop by Rist to preserve the shutout and enhance her candidacy for SLC Goalkeeper of the Year.

“We talked at halftime that one of the things we wanted to accomplish was keeping a clean sheet,” Brophy said. “That penalty kick save was huge to keep that clean sheet. It was one of the best saves I have ever seen in my life.”

The Southland Conference Tournament opens Tuesday at Lamar with top-seeded NSU is taking on in-state rival McNeese.

LAKE CHARLES – Northwestern State continues its path through a season built on growth and young talent on Saturday with another chance to measure that progress on one of the Southland Conference’s proudest stages.

For the first time since 2021, the Demons (1-7, 0-4) head back to Lake Charles, meeting rival McNeese (2-6, 1-3) under the lights with a 6 p.m. at Navarre Stadium, with coverage on ESPN+ and 100.7 FM KZBL in Natchitoches, along with Baldridge-Dumas Communications affiliates in Leesville, Many and Winnfield.

The Demons enter the meeting coming off a hard-fought battle with No. 15 Lamar, a night that again showed encouraging pieces of what this team is becoming. NSU went toe-to-toe with a conference title contender for three quarters, undone by a handful of first-half mistakes and a late surge from the Cardinals. Even in defeat, the flashes of explosiveness on both sides of the ball continued to grow brighter.

“Our kids are resilient,” second-year head coach Blaine McCorkle said. “They’re a really unique group in that they are young yes, but mature in their youth. I think they understand the big picture of our program and who we are, why we’re where we are and where we’re going. Every week they get excited to play. They recognize this is a rivalry week. McNeese has one of the best atmospheres in FCS football in a great venue.”

McNeese returns home after a tough trip to Nicholls where the game swung on a pick-six and a clock-draining, 17-play that covered nearly the entire third quarter. The Colonels stretched the lead to 24-7 in the fourth quarter and sealed things with a deep strike, but McCorkle sees a Cowboys team capable of much more than the results have shown.

“They had a tough one at Nicholls last week where Nicholls kind of got away from them a little,” McCorkle said. “But as I watched that game and followed those teams this year I think if they play 10 times they would go 5-5. Nicholls just got the best of them last week. We’ll have our work cut out for us. Coach (Matt) Viator is back there and putting a little juice back in the program.”

Saturday’s matchup could hinge on the ground game. Both defenses enter allowing more than 200 rushing yards per game, opening the door for a physical, possession-driven contest. The Demons, though, will aim to keep balance after their most productive passing performance of the season a week ago.

Redshirt freshman quarterback Abram Johnston delivered 284 yards, the second-highest total of his career, and a touchdown against Lamar. Seven or more receivers caught a pass for the eighth time this season, led by true freshman Brendan Webb’s breakout game with 126 yards on four catches, both career highs.

“We need to start fast and start well,” McCorkle said. “Get some confidence early and really try and make a game of it. McNeese hasn’t had the season I think they thought they would but when you turn on the film they still look like McNeese. That means something in FCS football. They’ve got some big offensive linemen and good size on their defensive ends. They’re physical and they do some really good stuff. They’re sound and know what they’re doing.”

As the Demons take another step in their development and return to one of the league’s iconic venues, the message inside the locker room remains simple and steady.

“The focus this week should be staying together and knowing what we can do,” offensive lineman Ralee Jackson said. “Every week is a toss-up in conference play. No game is ever guaranteed. It doesn’t matter what anybody says. Every week is a toss-up and we are capable of going and getting this one.”

Following a grueling season, the Northwestern State men’s and women’s cross country teams wrap up their fall season with the Southland Conference Championships.

The teams don’t have to travel to compete, either, as NSU hosts the meet on its campus this morning.

The women kick off the meet with a 6K race at 8:32 a.m., followed by the men’s 8K at 9:32 a.m. Both races can be viewed on ESPN+.

“It will be very nice to run at our course,” head coach Payten Vidourek said. “All the guys and women are waking up in their own beds. It’s almost like a regular practice. Day in and day out, we’ve been practicing on that course. We’ve been on the course a lot, which I think will show with the placements of everybody.”

Both races start behind the soccer field and finish between the soccer field and Walter P. Ledet Track and Field Complex.

It is the first time since 2014 NSU has hosted the conference meet.

Competing in his final conference meet of his career, John Klein aims to put a bow on a successful career with the Demons. Klein has placed in the top 12 in four of the five meets during the pre-conference races, including in the top three on two occasions. That includes a personal-best 25:58.8 in the 8K at the UT Tyler Cross Country Opener, finishing second.

“It’s a bittersweet moment for sure with it being my final cross country race,” Klein said. “I am glad I can have it at home. I’ll have my family and friends here and hopefully I can perform well and put out a performance I am proud of.”

In the NSU Pre-SLC Cross Country Meet last month, Klein finished in 10th place, clocking a 19:07.3 in the 6K race, which featured some of the conference’s best distance runners.

“I am really excited,” Klein said. “We’ve trained on that course all year and we know every pothole, every curve, everything about it. I think that will work to our advantage Friday, so we’re ready.”

While Klein has led the men, junior Lalaina Wood has consistently been the top finisher on the women’s side.

Wood has led the Lady Demons runners in every race she’s participated in. The Oak Ridge native has been at her best as the season has gone along, recording personal bests in each of her final three meets of the season, in three different distances.

In the last race at Mississippi College, she ran a 24:28.4 in the 6K on Oct. 17.

“Lalaina has been doing great every single race,” Vidourek said. “Ever since her injury, she has gotten better each race she runs in. Obviously a huge PR at McNeese and then followed that up with another PR in the 6K at Mississippi College.

The two leaders help guide a group of young athletes, especially on the men’s side.

The meet concludes the cross country season.

VOLLEYBALL:  The Northwestern  volleyball team was swept by the University of Incarnate Word Cardinals Thursday night (25-11, 25-16 and 25-20) in Southland Conference competition at San Antonio.

The Demons (1-24, 0-11 SLC) play Saturday afternoon at Houston Christian. The Cardinals (12-11, 8-3 SLC) completed a season sweep of NSU.

The Natchitoches Art Guild is proud to announce that three of its members — Sheryl Hatcher, Ellen Howell, and Mary Striegel — have each had a painting selected for inclusion in the River Oaks Art Center’s 10th Annual 5x5x5 National Exhibition.

This year’s exhibition received 190 entries from artists across the country, highlighting the national scope and competitive nature of the show.

The selected works from Natchitoches artists include:
• Falling Colors by Sheryl Hatcher
• Emile by Ellen Howell
• Gnarled Branches and Sapphire Skies by Mary Striegel

The exhibition opening will take place on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 5:30 p.m. at River Oaks Art Center, located at 1330 Second St. in Alexandria.

The Natchitoches Art Guild celebrates the recognition of these talented artists whose work continues to reflect the creativity and artistry found within the Natchitoches community.

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Louisiana emerged as a major winner at the 2025 JRNY America Awards in London last week, recognized with three of the 11 awards, earning more honors than any other U.S. destination. Louisiana was awarded the prestigious State of the Year, while the city of New Orleans received two additional accolades – Best Food City and Best New Tourism Initiative for the Amtrak Mardi Gras Service out of New Orleans.

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser praised the recognition as further proof that Louisiana’s cultural richness and accessibility are drawing visitors from around the world. “We’ve always said there’s nowhere quite like Louisiana – and the world is taking notice,” said Lt. Governor Nungesser. “International travelers are discovering that Louisiana offers everything they’re looking for: incredible food, music, and history, all at an unbeatable value. These awards are a testament to our people, our diverse culture, and the unforgettable experiences that make visitors feel right at home.”

According to the JRNY America Awards committee, the State of the Year award honors destinations that demonstrate excellence in tourism through innovation, sustainability, and visitor satisfaction. Louisiana’s selection reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting authentic culture, exceptional hospitality, and one-of-a-kind experiences across every region of the state.

“Louisiana is one of the best international destinations in the world. With its diversity of culture, music, and food, Louisiana stands out among the 49 other states,” said Louisiana Office of Tourism Assistant Secretary Doug Bourgeois. “I’m so proud Louisiana won this award. This recognition is a tribute to the cumulative efforts of Louisiana’s tourism industry to create rewarding, authentic experiences that keep visitors coming back.”

The JRNY America Awards celebrate the very best in American tourism, recognizing destinations, experiences, and organizations that make exploring the United States truly unforgettable. Each award honors innovation, creativity, and passion within the travel industry, highlighting those who enrich the visitor experience and showcase the diversity of America’s landscapes, cultures, and communities.

The JRNY America Awards feature 11 categories judged by a panel of travel industry experts, including authors, editors, tour operators, destination managers, and sustainability professionals.

JRNY magazine is a leading travel publication in the UK and is expanding its reach into the US and Australia.

Natchitoches Parish 4-H agents Pam Pearce and Amanda Clark were recently recognized at the National Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, where they received the National Diversity and Inclusion: Expanding the 4-H Audience Award.

The award honors innovative programs that broaden the reach of 4-H to new and diverse audiences. Pearce and Anderson were celebrated for their ongoing commitment to creating inclusive opportunities and expanding youth engagement across Natchitoches Parish.

Both agents expressed pride in representing their community and the youth they serve, noting that the recognition reflects the collaborative spirit and hard work of 4-H members, families, and volunteers throughout the parish.

As the cool November breeze drifts through Red River Parish, it’s time to remember one of autumn’s most familiar rituals — “falling back.”

This Sunday, November 2, marks the end of Daylight Saving Time, which means you’ll need to set your clocks back one hour before heading to bed Saturday night. That’s right — we all get an extra hour of sleep! 

While that bonus hour is something to celebrate, the time change also signals a shift in our daily rhythm. Mornings will be brighter, but evenings will get darker earlier — a sure sign that cozy season has arrived. Expect porch lights to flick on sooner, sunsets to paint the sky before dinner, and maybe even a few yawns earlier in the evening.

Make sure to double-check your clocks — especially those old-fashioned wall or oven clocks that don’t update automatically. It’s also a great time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms — a small task that could make a big difference.

So this weekend, as you enjoy that first real hint of sweater weather, take a moment to soak in the slower pace. “Fall back” isn’t just about adjusting the clock — it’s a reminder to reset, recharge, and enjoy the calm that comes with the changing season.

Tip: Don’t forget to set your clocks back one hour before bed Saturday night — and enjoy that extra hour of sleep!

The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office (NPSO) recently provided Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (CRASE) training to teachers and support staff at Provencal Elementary and Junior High School as part of the school’s ongoing commitment to safety and emergency preparedness.

Sheriff Stuart Wright said the purpose of the training is to equip educators and school employees with the knowledge and confidence to recognize, respond to, and react appropriately during critical incidents that may occur on campus.

“Our goal is to empower school personnel with the tools and confidence necessary to protect themselves and their students should a crisis ever occur,” said Sheriff Wright.

Developed by Texas State University’s Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center, the CRASE program is a nationally recognized training model utilized by law enforcement agencies across the country. It emphasizes situational awareness, decisive action, and coordinated response — key strategies that can help save lives during emergencies.

Due to the sensitive and security-based nature of the training, specific details will not be released publicly. NPSO School Resource Officer Deputy Myron Robinson facilitated the training session, which was coordinated in partnership with Provencal Elementary/Junior High School Principal Diana Curtis.

The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office continues to collaborate with Natchitoches Parish School Superintendent Grant Eloi and parish schools to strengthen safety and preparedness through ongoing training and partnerships.

Louisiana will use $150 million monthly in state funds to continue food assistance for elderly, disabled and child recipients after federal SNAP benefits halt Saturday due to the government shutdown, Gov. Jeff Landry announced Wednesday.

The state will automatically provide November benefits to approximately 565,000 vulnerable residents without requiring requalification, Landry said. Payments will be uploaded to EBT cards during the first four days of November.

About 53,000 households with able-bodied adults will not receive the temporary state benefits. Landry encouraged those recipients to seek employment, citing more than 100,000 job openings statewide.

Nearly 793,000 Louisiana residents — roughly one in five — rely on SNAP benefits, according to the governor’s office. That includes about 356,800 children, 88,200 seniors and more than 120,000 people with disabilities.

The Louisiana Legislature unanimously approved a resolution Friday authorizing the state Department of Health to tap its budget and the Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund for the emergency funding. Landry signed an emergency declaration Oct. 23 enabling the fund release.

Louisiana is one of eight states and the only one in the Gulf South providing such assistance during the shutdown.

Join Marvin as he addresses the SNAP benefits and the State of Louisiana providing the funds to cover SNAP benefits for the month of November 2025.

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is announcing that due to the federal government shutdown in Washington, D.C., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits will not be issued to recipients starting November 1. Any unused SNAP benefits from previous months will remain on recipients’ Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards and can be used as usual.

Brought to you by Lance Lopez with Farm Bureau, Harrington Law Firm and the Sharpco Hotel Group.

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The 68th annual Miss Northwestern – Lady of the Bracelet Scholarship Contest will be held on Thursday, Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. in the A.A. Fredericks Auditorium. The event is a preliminary to the Miss Louisiana Scholarship Contest.

There is no admission charge, but a $5 donation will be accepted to assist the new Miss Northwestern – Lady of the Bracelet with expenses required for the Miss Louisiana Contest.

Those taking part in the contest are Cameron Bruno of River Ridge, Nilah Pollard of Shreveport, Lauren Vernon of Arcadia, Chloe Rachal of Natchez, Chase Kendrick of Vivian and Madison Book of Pineville.

Bruno is the daughter of Carrie and Brad Bruno. She is a senior nursing and dance major. Bruno is the co-captain of the Demon Dazzlers. Bruno is a member of the Dance Organization of Students and has served as head of the Reception Committee. She has been a member of the NSU Dance Company for three years. Bruno is a Dean’s List student.

Pollard is the daughter of Craig and Alyea Pollard and is a senior social work major. She is Speaker of the Senate for the Student Government Association and secretary of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Pollard is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, the Baptist Collegiate Ministry and serves as a resident mentor for the Elevate-U Program. She is also active in the Purple Jacket Honor Society, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Demon Volunteers in Progress, La Belle Femme and the NAACP. A former member of the 2024–2025 Freshman Connection team and alumna of the President’s Leadership Program (PLP), Pollard serves as a PLP mentor. She is the 2025 Miss NSU.

Vernon is a senior biology pre-med major with a minor in dance and is the daughter of Latisha and Lawrence Vernon. She is a President’s List student and a member of the Purple Jackets Honor Society and Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society. Vernon is a third-year member of the Purple Pizzazz Pom Line where she serves as captain and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated Eta Chi Chapter, where she serves as president. She is an alumna and previous mentor in the President Leadership Program, a Demon Volunteer in Progress, and served as a 2023-2024 freshman orientation leader. She was a member of the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 Homecoming Honor Court.

Rachal is the daughter of Cody Clark and the late Lacey Clark. She is a sophomore health and exercise major with a concentration in pre-physical therapy. Rachal is a member of the NSU cheerleading team, Vic the Demon’s manager and captain of NSU’s Overwatch Esports team. She has also been on the honor list for two consecutive years.

Kendrick is the daughter of Toni and Jerry Kendrick and is a junior secondary education major with a concentration in mathematics. She is a President’s and Dean’s List student. Kendrick is a Presidential Ambassador and a member of the Demon Volunteer in Progress program and the Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society.

Book is the daughter of Jeremy and Alicia Book. She is a sophomore biology major with a pre-med concentration, an alumna of NSU’s President’s Leadership Program, a Demon Volunteer in Progress, and a freshman orientation leader. Book represented the state as the Distinguished Young Woman of Louisiana in 2024, and was awarded the National Panhellenic Sisterhood Scholarship, as well as the ULS Board of Supervisors “For Our Future” Scholar Award. As a member of the Sigma Sigma Sigma Alpha Zeta Chapter at NSU, she has served as communications manager and was awarded NSU Greek Life Outstanding New Member for the College Panhellenic Council. Book has been a Dean’s List student. She is a member of the NSU Baptist Collegiate Ministry, Alpha Lambda Delta National Honor Society, the National Society of Leadership and Success, Tri Beta, Alpha Epsilon Delta Honor Society and the American Society for Microbiology.