On Monday, March 16, 2026, Delta College of Arts & Technology had the honor of welcoming Dr. Kirk A. Nooks, President and CEO of the Council on Occupational Education (COE), for a special campus visit. As Delta College’s accrediting body, COE plays a vital role in maintaining educational quality and supporting career-focused institutions across the country.
Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, COE is a nationally respected accrediting agency for non-degree and applied associate degree programs. Its work helps ensure that institutions like Delta College continue to meet high standards in occupational education and workforce preparation.
A Meaningful Meeting with College Leadership
Dr. Nooks began his visit by meeting with key members of Delta College leadership, including President Billy L. Clark, Provost Dr. Christian Vige’, Director of Accreditation Carol Hasegawa, and Corporate Practical Nursing Programs Coordinator Comelia Jackson Pounds.
During this discussion, Dr. Nooks shared insights into COE’s strategic direction and future initiatives. In turn, Mr. Clark provided a brief history of Delta College, highlighting its founding in 1970 and its growth into the largest single provider of Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in the state of Louisiana.
This exchange underscored the strong relationship between Delta College and COE, as well as a shared commitment to student success and workforce readiness.
Connecting with Students Across Campus
Following the meeting, Dr. Nooks toured the campus, taking time to engage with students from a variety of programs. These conversations offered a firsthand look at the student experience and the impact of Delta College’s career-focused training.
The tour concluded at the Practical Nursing building, where Dr. Nooks participated in a student panel discussion. Students shared their personal “Delta stories,” reflecting on their educational journeys and future goals.
One student asked Dr. Nooks about his own path to becoming President and CEO of COE. His response left a lasting impression, emphasizing perseverance and purpose.
His message was simple but powerful: never stop writing your story, and do not let it end before you have finished it.
Showcasing Hands-On Training
The visit concluded with a skills demonstration in the Nursing Lab, where a group of Practical Nursing students showcased their training and technical abilities. This hands-on presentation highlighted the real-world skills students develop at Delta College and the program’s focus on career readiness.
A Visit That Reinforces Delta’s Mission
Delta College is grateful for the time Dr. Nooks spent on campus and for the insight, encouragement, and vision he shared with both students and staff. His visit served as a reminder of the importance of accreditation, continuous improvement, and student-centered education.
As Delta College continues to prepare students for meaningful careers, partnerships with organizations like COE remain an essential part of delivering high-quality training and supporting student success across Louisiana.
