McNeese Offers New Opportunities With PRIME 

McNeese State University celebrated the first cohort of students in the Preparing for Real Independence and Motivating for Excellence, or PRIME, program with a signing ceremony.

PRIME is a new two-year program for students ages 18-26, who have an intellectual disability. The program focuses on the acquisition of functional academics, career development and independent living, social and leisure and health and wellness skills, all within a university setting.  

“We are excited to offer this opportunity to help our students live a more independent life,” said Lettie Goings, director of PRIME. “The goal of the program is to give the students the tools they need to become as self-sufficient as possible while also having an enriching college experience.”  

Students complete PRIME coursework and audit academic courses offered by McNeese. Additionally, students will complete internships related to career interests.  

“PRIME students audit courses which means they do not receive a grade, but they must complete the required coursework to receive credit,” Goings said. 

Students who complete the program will receive a certificate of completion at either of McNeese’s commencement ceremonies. 

For more information about this program and the application process, contact Goings at prime@mcneese.edu.