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FranU alumna Sandra Launey is proud of how FranU has grown since graduating from the nursing program in 1962 and remains dedicated to supporting FranU’s mission.

Initially studying Business Curriculum, Launey felt nursing was her true calling. She applied to what was then Our Lake of the Lake School of Nursing and became a student in 1959.

“Sister Agnes Marie, Director of the School, was instrumental in my acceptance. We felt the Diploma Program prepared us with the wealth of experience needed for our professional careers.”

Launey’s time at FranU gave her the knowledge and skills to develop her career. After graduation, she began working at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Lafayette. At Lourdes, the alumna once again found mentorship with Sister Marie, now Hospital Administrator.

Sister Marie collaborated with Launey on projects and while there, Launey started the Inhalation Therapy Department. The hospital administrator later sent Launey back to the University for further training.

Years later, Launey earned her license in Texas and worked as a staff nurse for fourteen months. When she returned to Louisiana, she worked in the ICU at Lourdes for five and a half years before settling down near New Orleans.

“When our boys were six and ten, I went to work part-time at Lakeside Hospital in Metairie for 23 years, until Katrina brought us back to Lafayette where I worked at Women and Children’s Hospital for 2 years and retired at age 65.”

Though retired, Launey remains active in her community. She and her husband volunteer at Lourdes as a Eucharistic Minister and Greeter.

The alumna is still dedicated to her Alma Mater and admires the development she’s seen at FranU over the years.

“Ever since reconnecting with my Alma Mater at our 50th Reunion (2012), I am so proud of my nursing school to have made such strides in expanding its academic programs.”

In recognition of their ongoing support, FranU invited Launey and her husband to attend the ribbon cutting of St. Francis Hall.

Launey was impressed by the innovations at the new facility.

“I asked and we received a personal tour of the new building, and we were blown away with all the state-of-the-art technology and equipment!”

Looking ahead, Launey believes FranU’s growth will continue to attract students who share values of Franciscan leadership, and she hopes to continue working alongside FranU in support of its mission.