Geauxing from Speech to Student Success

Hi, I’m Nicole Walker, your LCLCA Vice President, a Mobile, AL native, and a proud graduate of the University of South Alabama (2016) and Louisiana State University (2018). My love for learning support began in graduate school as a strategy tutor for student-athletes at LSU’s Academic Center for Student Athletes. Seeing the same students twice a week, I witnessed firsthand those “light bulb” moments when everything clicked and they realized they had the tools to succeed.

I started my career path in speech-language pathology, fascinated by how the brain processes language in all its form and how cognition affects EVERYTHING we do. Somewhere between my experiences in graduate school and my work with elementary school students, I realized my passion stretched beyond the tradition classroom. For me, it was about helping all students unlock how they learn best. That’s when I made the leap into learning centers, and I’ve never looked back.

Today, as Interim Assistant Director of Outreach and Engagement at LSU’s Center for Academic Success, I coordinate outreach initiatives, meet with students, and lead our Promise Scholars program. I love seeing how my background in language, cognition, and neuroscience applies to teaching students metacognitive strategies and helping them understand why certain study techniques work and how to take control of their own learning.

Outside of work, I’m a die-hard LSU fan, alleged Disney adult, MASSIVE Swiftie, devoted dog mom, and lover of English, writing, and reading. I’m at my happiest when I’m doing something creative, solving a tricky problem, or making connections between people and ideas.

Why LCLCA? Because our mission is bigger than any one campus—it’s about learning centers across Louisiana working together to empower students. Whether it’s hosting Lunch and Learns, joining committees, sharing what’s working in your center at the annual symposium, or helping us dream up new ideas, there’s a place for you here. I cannot wait to see all of the things we are able to do together!

Geaux LCLCA, y'all! —Nicole

Being awarded LSU's THIRD Learning Center of Excellence designation

My partner Alex and I on her first trip to Disney World in spring 2025

Representing CAS at the New Faculty Summit in my favorite place, Death Valley

My dogs (from left to right), Indigo, Azalea, and Finn

My claim to fame: being on the floor for the Eras Tour when Sabrina Carpenter was a surprise guest