Staff and Faculty Spotlight: September 2024

Marjana Herring, Office of Information Technology

When did you first start at LSU Eunice?

September 28, 1983 as employee; was a student prior to this.

 

What is your current role at LSU Eunice?

Information Systems Technical Analyst 3

 

What are some of your favorite memories of being here at LSU Eunice?

 I was hired to replace Tina Oubre in Data Processing as she was having her first child and wanted to stay home. I worked a few days and then she had her baby early, so I was thrown in the mix on my own earlier than expected. Admissions, Registrar and Academic Affairs were located next to my office door, and they showed me the ropes and made me feel really welcomed.

 

Our equipment consisted of punch cards, card sorters, and card readers in addition to a 5520 Word Processor that a few on campus had access to. We got computers in 1986-1987 and added token ring network in 1990. CARS software came in 1994 to replace the punch card process.

 

I have watched “Data Processing” change to Information Management Systems to Information Technology with the staff growing from 1.5 people to 7 people and yet we still accomplish the same things that large IT offices do.

 

The employees and students through the years have been great. In 1992, Sandra had to push me around the campus in a wheelchair (broken leg) to work on computers and network connections. I saw and was involved in the creation of myLSUE. It’s been awesome seeing the technology and tools available to employees and students grow through the years. I definitely have to mention the love and concern that poured out when Jerry, my husband, got sick and eventually passed away.

 

What makes LSU Eunice a special place for students and the entire community?

The beauty and small size of the campus. No traffic delays in getting here. The family atmosphere.

 

What advice would you give to students who are coming to LSU Eunice?

Get involved. Get to know your instructors and classmates. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Be respectful – honey catches more flies than vinegar.

 

Why LSU Eunice for 40 years(!)?

One of the reasons that I never left LSUE was the fact that I was limited to one job. My main job is programming and IR reporting. However, during my time, I have learned networking, computer repair, Moodle, System Administration, etc. I love learning and each new task that I tackle brings a better understanding of how things all work together.