A Story of Growth: Nicole St. Germain’s Full-Circle Journey at FranU

More than two decades after graduating from FranU’s Radiologic Technology program, Nicole St. Germain has had a front-row seat to the University’s transformation.

Since earning her degree in 2003, St. Germain has watched FranU evolve into a mission-driven institution committed to collaboration, innovation and community.

Over the years, she has witnessed the University expand academically and physically through the addition of new programs, the development of a more centralized campus and the construction of St. Francis Hall and its Simulated Environmental Teaching Hospital (SETH).

She believes FranU’s continued advancement is rooted not only in its facilities and programs, but in its people.

The FranU faculty continue to be a blessing as they are highly qualified and deeply invested in their students' success,” she said. “I’ve also noticed a strong development in student engagement and campus ministry, which helps support students not just academically, but personally and spiritually as well. It’s exciting to see how the University continues to grow!”

Today she is helping shape the future of the Radiologic Technology program as its program director.

Before becoming a faculty member, St. Germain served as a preceptor for students at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. Her journey back to FranU began when one of her previous instructors encouraged her to return and teach in the same program she graduated from.

It felt like a full-circle moment,” St. Germain said. “Knowing that someone who once taught and mentored me saw potential in me to come back as faculty really inspired me to take that step.”

As an alumna, she says her experience as a former student helps her connect with her students on a deeper level and fully prepare them for their careers because she once stood in their shoes.

“I’ve been through the curriculum, similar challenges and clinical experiences,” she said. “It allows me to relate to them, encourage them and push them in a way that’s supportive yet sets realistic expectations.”

She says the most rewarding part of her role is watching students discover confidence in themselves and their calling.

I've been blessed to watch the growth of a student from the beginning of the program to graduation, and then into their career as a radiologic technologist,” St. Germain said.