NSU College of Business and Technology hosts immersive etiquette training with business leaders
NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University’s College of Business and Technology recently hosted the J. Walter Porter Professional Training and Etiquette Experience to provide students with first-hand experience in professional presence, dressing for success, communication and dining etiquette. The event covered everything from greeting with a confident handshake to properly setting a table and using the appropriate knife, fork and spoon when dining.
“We have excellent students who are learning the hard skills in accounting, finance, strategy, computer information systems, marketing and more, but we saw a need to teach our students the ‘soft skills,’” said Dr. Scott Wysong, dean of the College. “In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, digital transformation and concerns regarding AI overtaking jobs in the future, NSU is leaning into a mantra ‘The Future of Business is Human.’ As technology evolves, businesses will still need people to lead others to instruct and direct AI.”
Assistant Professor Heidy McWhorter Mongeon designed the immersive professional etiquette experience and brought in nationally recognized, accredited etiquette expert Sarah Aynesworth of Waco, Texas, along with regional business leaders.
“With Sarah, we created an engaging experiential environment where students and leaders could both learn and practice traditional and modern etiquette skills, building confidence and helping to level the professional playing field for all students, regardless of background or socio-economic status,” Mongeon said. “Whether in an interview, client dinner or executive meeting, students will be prepared to step into these moments with confidence and stand out when it matters most.”
The experience also created a meaningful bridge between students and the business community, allowing participants to apply these skills in real time alongside professionals representing industries across energy, finance, hospitality, tech, tourism and economic development. More than 170 students and business leaders participated.
“I really appreciated the opportunity to learn and dine with NSU alumni and business leaders while gaining valuable professional etiquette skills that I know I will use throughout my career,” said senior Accounting and Business Administration major Dexteria King of Alexandria.
“Sometimes business success starts with something as simple and as meaningful as sending an RSVP or thank you note, knowing which fork to use and how to confidently shake someone’s hand,” Mongeon said.
Information on NSU’s College of Business and Technology is available at
ABOUT THE J. WALTER PORTER EXPERIENCE
The J. Walter Porter Professional Training and Etiquette Experience is designed to connect industries and business leaders with students and help build confidence, professionalism and career readiness beyond the classroom. Through the training in business etiquette, communication, personal presentation and networking, the experience connects students with alumni, faculty and business leaders while reinforcing the interpersonal skills that are essential for long-term professional success. NSU is grateful for the endowment of the J. Walter Porter family foundation which makes this experience possible.
ABOUT THE NSU COLLEGE OF BUSINESS & TECHNOLOGY
Northwestern State University’s College of Business & Technology prepares students for leadership in a rapidly evolving global economy through a blend of academic rigor and real-world, experiential learning across disciplines including programs in business, accounting, finance, CIS, marketing and Hospitality Management & Tourism (HMT). NSU programs are career-focused, affordable and designed for real-world impact. With a welcoming campus community, flexible learning options (including online degrees) and faculty who bring industry experience into every classroom, students graduate with the skills and confidence employer’s demand. NSU blends innovation with tradition to deliver a business and technology education that matters. The students thrive in a hands-on learning environment grounded in the values of leadership, service, and academic excellence.