Director of Student Involvement Ricki Rebollar-Becerra Leaves Centenary

Over Mardi Gras break, students began hearing rumors that a big name at Centenary would be leaving the school once classes resumed. Rumors turned out to be true when the campus received an email from Dean of Students Mark Miller saying that the Director of Student Involvement, Ricki Rebollar-Becerra, would be leaving Centenary on February 27th for a position at LSUS where he can pursue his Doctorate. Centenary hosted a going-away party for him to celebrate the five years he spent at Centenary. Ricki is clearly loved by the campus community, if the event turnout is any indication. Cake was eaten, tears were shed, and our community got to give Ricki our well-wishes. 

During his time at Centenary, Ricki had many hats. He began his role at Centenary in 2021 after a multi-year position at Henderson College serving as their Assistant Director of Student activities. At Centenary, Ricki was responsible for all things fun (and the rules that came along with the fun). He ran SOAR and Orientation, both the events themselves, the organization, and the hiring and training of the mentors. He was the faculty advisor for the Centenary Activities Board and oversaw dozens of events for students including the yearly CAB Fest and CABchella. He played a huge role in organizing Senior Week every year and lead the charge on the Bicentennial Bash. He helped dozens of clubs and organizations earn a chartership through the SGA. At various points throughout his tenure at Centenary, the position of Assistant Director of Student was unfilled, and he acted as the touchpoint for Greek life on campus. He even served as an unofficial cheer coach in 2021!

During his term, Centenary saw the addition of multiple new NPHC Fraternities. He mentored dozens—if not hundreds—of students on leadership and community. He ensured the campus community received proper training on hazing and encouraged a safe atmosphere for students. Outside of Centenary, Ricki served on the LACUSPA Executive Board as the Private Universities and Colleges Representative for the state of Louisiana. He became the Assistant Dean of Students in 2025, supporting the college’s mission to provide students with the best opportunities. He organized the ACS Fraternity & Sorority Life Drive-In Conference when it was hosted by Centenary and earned the President’s Excellence Award, the highest award given to staff members at Centenary, in 2025. To give a complete overview of his accomplishments while at Centenary would be a book—not an article. Current CAB President Man Cing said this when asked about Ricki’s departure: 

Ricki wasn't just an advisor, he was a pivotal part of Centenary's culture and the driving force behind so much of Centenary's student life. Over the years, he didn't just advise students, he shaped the way we led, collaborated, and grew. His absence will be felt most in the quiet moments when we reach for guidance and realize how much of what we know came from him.

Ricki’s position will be filled by Willisa Gaut, the previous Assistant Director of Student Involvement. She will be stepping into new roles like the faculty advisor for CAB, SOAR, and Orientation, as well as keeping her current roles as Greek Life Coordinator. Willisa has been a great addition to our Centenary community, and she is sure to do a fantastic job in the new role. 

In a heart-felt message to the community, Ricki wrote about how much Centenary meant to him. He says that he “will always be cheering you on from just down the road.” We hope to see you soon, Ricki, and good luck on all of your endeavors!