1900 North 18th Street, Suite 201 Monroe, LA 71201
(+1) 318-855-1923
President's Message
Sherry Ray Wilson
Through collaboration, dedication, and a team that never says “no,” thousands of citizens in our community and region have received the training, education, and support from NOVA needed to gain new skills and connect with local employers for placement in jobs.
Sherry Ray WilsonNOVA Board President
Having served as a member on the NOVA Board of Directors for the past 6 1/2 years, and currently, as President of the Board of Directors, I am extremely proud to have been a part of the innovations and ongoing initiatives. During the years that I have been privileged to serve, NOVA has forged new opportunities for growth.
It has expanded its footprint to include programs such as the Financial Opportunity Center, Digital Navigation Services, and Educational programs with Louisiana Delta Community College, in addition to its traditional Workforce training programs. We are truly delighted to have partnered with LA Delta Community College to incorporate the Trenchless Utility Installation Technician & Utility Lineman Training Programs.
The NOVA Staff has continued to grow and adapt to meet the ever-changing workforce needs in NELA. Through collaboration, dedication, and a team that never says “no,” thousands of citizens in our community and region have received the training, education, and support needed to gain new skills and connect with local employers for placement in jobs.
Over the years, I have witnessed this amazing journey of NOVA from its inception. Through an “inside” lens, there is a certain joy that comes when the NOVA participant not only achieves their goals, but accomplishes their dreams, and meets with the success of a Living Wage Career!
In closing, I want to thank the Employers of Northeast Louisiana and surrounding Regions for supporting NOVA for the past 15 years. Without your support and belief in NOV A’s mission, we would not have been able to make a difference in the lives of our participants. Special thanks to Paul West, Executive Director, Juanita Woods, Deputy Director, Director of Programs and Participant Services, and the entire Staff at NOVA.
I would also like to thank the Volunteer Board Members and our Advisory Council for your dedication to our community. Without your untiring efforts, we would not be where we are today – A Strong, Vibrant, Dedicated Organization meeting the Workforce Needs of NELA!
It is with great pleasure that I say Happy 15th Anniversary to NOVA Workforce Institute of Northeast Louisiana!
Thank you,
Sherry Ray Wilson
NOVA Board President
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Your goals are individual. We believe career advice should be too, so we help your career thrive in this work environment.
"Gardner Denver has had great success with the NOVA program - the candidates we've hired are committed to hard work, to self-improvement, and to the success of our team. We strongly support the mission and intent of NOVA, and it will remain for us a preferred program to depend on for entry-level opportunities to join our team."
Mark IngramDirector, Operations North America Gardner Denver Thomas
"Being an employer who has been in the paper and plastic industries for some 40+ years, I have been concerned about the lack of a skilled workforce in the area of manufacturing in our community. NOVA is an organization that has made great strides in taking individuals who for whatever reason have taken the wrong path in life and need someone to give them guidance and vision in becoming a contributing source in the general workplace."
Bill KightPresident Euroboard Inc.
