Tag: education

Dr. Henrietta Williams Pichon, Dean

Where did you grow up and what activities were you involved in?

I am from New Orleans, LA. As a student, my biggest pastime was figuring out a way to leave the city. I attended a Vocational High School, so I wanted to develop a skill that I believed would prepare me for a career. Unfortunately, I did not join any student organizations. However, I did have a part-time job at Zayre’s. Working the part-time job while in high school taught me invaluable lessons about work ethic, managing multiple organizational needs,  and the joys of working. 

What did you want to be when you grew up?

As a first-generation college student, planning for my future was a bit haphazard. To be honest, I cannot say that I had a single “career” in mind. I relied heavily on my high school teachers to help provide direction in that area. I believed that if they thought I could go to “college,” then, it was a possibility that they were right. I was told to consider majoring in something that I loved. At the time, I thought I would be the next Dr. Maya Angelou, so I majored in English. 

Where did you attend UG and what did major in?

Louisiana Tech was a perfect selection for me for Bachelor’s degree in English (1992) and Master’s in Education (Secondary English; 1993). 

Where did you attend graduate school and your activities during that time?

I know earlier I indicated that I wanted to leave New Orleans. After earning my master’s degree from Tech, I returned to New Orleans. I earned my PhD in Education Administration from the University of New Orleans (2005). During that time, I held multiple positions in Student Success (then known as the Office of Retention).  Having earned my doctoral degree, I moved through varying faculty roles at three different institutions (Rowan University, Northwestern State University, New Mexico) before taking on administrative responsibilities (New Mexico State University and University of Colorado). 

What brought you to Louisiana Tech?

Tech was far enough from New Orleans for me. The faculty and staff were so helpful in the recruitment, admissions, and enrollment process. The minute I arrived on campus for New Student Orientation, I knew I belonged. And that feeling precipitated my return. 

What classes will you teach at Tech?

I am qualified to teach courses in Curriculum, Instruction, and Leadership. I enjoy courses, such as: College Student Development, History of Higher Education, Introduction to Leadership, Student Affairs Administration, 

What are your research interests?

My primary research and teaching interests continue to focus on student success (factors that impact college student experiences). My purpose for engagement in research is not only to understand the student experience but also to make recommendations for institutional change. My most recent article focused on STEM faculty mentorship and teaching strategies. You can download a copy at Understanding the “Why” of STEM Faculty Mentors and How They Engage in High Context Teaching and Mentoring Strategies – Henrietta Williams Pichon, Sandra M. Way, Stephanie M. Arnett, 2025 (open access). 

What organizations are you affiliated with?

American Association for Blacks in Higher Education

American Educational Research Association

Association for the Study of Higher Education

National Association for Student Affairs Administrators

Tell us about your family.

I am the youngest of four girls. We enjoy an occasional girls trip to stay connected. We enjoy reminiscing about our childhood and early adult days. My husband and I live in Monroe. He has gotten used to us giggling until we go to sleep. 

What do you like to do in your spare time to unwind?

I like refurbishing furniture. I learned a lot from my “Home Economics” class in the 9th grade and watching “This Old House.” This school year, I hope to create a nice, summer maxi. I wonder if I can participate int he Spring Fashion Show…hmmmmm. 

What is your favorite quote?

“When people show you who they are the first time, believe them.” Dr. Maya Angelou. This quote reminds me to accept everyone as they are.