Northwestern to award Honorary Doctorate to WKH President and CEO

NATCHITOCHES, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Northwestern State University will award an Honorary Doctorate of Humanities to Jerry Adkins (Jaf) Fielder II during its spring commencement ceremony on May 14.

“Mr. Fielder is one of the University’s and College of Nursing and Allied Health’s most dedicated and influential supporters,” said NSU President James T. Genovese. “His visionary leadership has been pivotal in overseeing Willis Knighton’s integrated healthcare system.”

Fielder supervises Louisiana’s largest healthcare delivery system, covering four hospitals, a rehab clinic, a 600-member physician network, and the Oaks of Louisiana, the largest retirement system in Louisiana.

“Mr. Fielder’s steadfast support of Northwestern has been critical in the development and accreditation of the DNP Nurse Anesthesia program as well as several specialty programs in radiologic sciences,” said Genovese. “His commitment extends beyond the University through community initiatives which have greatly improved the quality of life throughout our region.”

Fielder is also a staunch supporter of educational advancement, leading transformative projects that benefit students and communities in need. He created the Willis Knighton Health Occupations Partnership, giving high school students hands-on healthcare experience and scholarship opportunities.

“Fielder’s commitment to public service includes spearheading major community partnerships — from renovating Lee Hedges Stadium for local schools to co-funding a Ronald McDonald House and supporting first responder health screenings,” a press release stated. “His community leadership has included positions with the Martin Luther King Health Center and Pharmacy, Northwest Louisiana Heart Walk, the Louisiana Hospital Association, and the Food Bank of Northwest Louisiana, where he currently serves as chairman.”

Fielder has earned three degrees: an MBA focusing on organizational psychology and business management, a BBA from Abilene Christian University, and a BS in accounting from LSU Shreveport. He is also an active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

“A dedicated member of the University Church of Christ, he has served as a deacon since 2018,” the release stated. “He was appointed by Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry to the Healthcare Pelican Transition Team and is an Honorary Commander of the 307th Medical Squadron at Barksdale Air Force Base.”

Fielder has also been awarded United Way’s Clyde E. Fant Memorial Award and Shreveport and Bossier Chambers of Commerce’s Business of the Year back-to-back years.

Fielder, Willis Knighton Health’s president and CEO, will receive the doctorate at the ceremony on Wednesday, May 14, at 2 p.m. To learn more about NSU’s spring commencement, visit nsula.edu/commencement.