Baton Rouge Community College Celebrates Dr. Darica N. Simon-Baptiste
Recipient of the 2025 SWASAP Legacy Leader Award
Baton Rouge Community College (BRCC) proudly announces that Dr. Darica N. Simon-Baptiste, Director of TRIO Programs, has been honored with the 2025 SWASAP Legacy Leader Award at the 54th Annual Southwest Association of Student Assistance Programs (SWASAP) Conference, held November 2–5 in Houston, Texas.
The Legacy Leader Award is one of SWASAP’s most prestigious honors, recognizing members who have made significant contributions to educational equity, demonstrated outstanding professionalism and leadership, and inspired innovation and positive change within their communities. Honorees must have served in TRIO programs for 15 or more years, exemplifying dedication, service, and an enduring commitment to student success.
Dr. Simon-Baptiste’s recognition reflects her steadfast advocacy for first-generation and low-income students and her leadership in expanding access to higher education. Through her work with BRCC’s TRIO Programs—including Upward Bound I & II and the Educational Opportunity Center—she has helped countless students realize their potential and achieve their educational goals.
In addition to her campus leadership, Dr. Simon-Baptiste has served in numerous state, regional, and national roles. She is the Immediate Past President of SWASAP, Government Relations Chair for the Louisiana Association of Student Assistance Programs (LASAP), and a former Board Member of the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE), the national organization that advocates for federal TRIO programs.
Her vision, advocacy, and lifelong commitment to equity continue to elevate BRCC’s mission of transforming lives through education.
Congratulations, Dr. Simon-Baptiste, on this well-deserved honor!