NATCHITOCHES – According to Elizabeth Wilson, “It’s never too late.” She began her college journey in 1987 but life interrupted – marriage, divorce and raising children as a single parent – required her to prioritize family. But before her father passed away in 2011, she promised him she would return to school and complete her degree.
Next week, Wilson will make good on that promise, earning a Bachelor of Arts in History from Northwestern State University. Spring Commencement will take place with three ceremonies over two days May 13-14.
In 2020, with her children grown, Wilson knew the time was right. While living in Pineville, she enrolled at Central Louisiana Technical Community College and earned an associate degree in business administration. When the COVID-19 pandemic shifted classes online, she found that the virtual format allowed her to better balance a full-time job and coursework. Since then, she has continued taking classes online, successfully managing professional and academic responsibilities.
A move to Lafayette in 2022 provided a fresh start, personally and professionally. She joined First Solar, a leading provider of solar products, as administrative assistant to the plant manager.
“I’ve really enjoyed being part of a startup environment and contributing to the development of a new facility. The role has challenged me in the best ways. It’s fast-paced, requires strong organization and communication and has given me the opportunity to be involved in building processes from the ground up. It’s been a very rewarding experience so far.”
She transferred to NSU in 2023, choosing Northwestern for meaningful reasons. Her father, Michael Wilson, an important influence in her life, attended NSU from 1963-65 as a pre-med major, and although he didn’t graduate, he was proud of his time there.
“He had a deep love of learning and was always reading, always trying to understand something new. That mindset really shaped who I am today. He also had a strong interest in history, and that passion carried over to me and my siblings. Because of him, I developed a curiosity not just about historical events, but about the people, cultures and everyday lives behind them.
“I was also drawn to the strength of the history program, particularly the courses offered and the opportunity to minor in Creole studies. As someone who has a deep appreciation for Louisiana’s culture and history, it felt like the perfect fit for both my academic interests and my personal passions.”
That interest eventually grew into a commitment to historical reenactment, which Wilson’s been involved in for over 30 years, initially focusing on the American Civil War, studying not only the major events but also the lived experiences of individuals during that time. Over the past several years, she expanded her focus to include historical foodways, specifically recipes and cooking techniques from the mid-1700s through the late 1800s. This allowed her to explore history in a more hands-on and immersive way.
“Today, I participate in living history demonstrations at historic sites across the state and throughout the country. Through these experiences, I enjoy educating others and helping bring history to life in a way that is engaging and accessible. It’s especially meaningful to share that passion with others, because it reflects the same love of learning and curiosity that my father instilled in me.”
Wilson credited her NSU professors for encouraging her to think and stay engaged and for their support and understanding of her schedule and responsibilities.
Having reached this significant milestone, she plans to take a break and recharge before deciding her next step, which may include a master’s degree, as well as traveling and experiencing different cultures, perspectives and histories.
“Going back to school was about proving to myself that I could finish what I started. This degree represents personal growth, perseverance and a commitment I made to myself to see it through.”
Information on NSU’s History program within the School of Social Sciences and Applied Programs is available at https://www.nsula.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/college-of-arts-and-sciences/ssap/.
Information on Spring commencement is available at https://www.nsula.edu/commencement/.