Message from the Director
Welcome to the NIMSAT Institute, where our mission is to support and strengthen the emergency management and homeland security community across Louisiana. In a state that faces a unique and complex set of hazards—from hurricanes and flooding to industrial threats and cybersecurity risks—our work is driven by a deep commitment to resilience, collaboration, and informed action.
Our institute exists at the intersection of academic research and real-world practice. We are proud to serve as a bridge between the University of Louisiana at Lafayette's scholarly resources and the urgent, practical needs of emergency managers, public safety professionals, private sector partners, and nonprofit organizations working on the front lines of preparedness and response.
We believe that effective emergency management is rooted in evidence-based strategies, multidisciplinary partnerships, and continuous innovation. That’s why our team works hand-in-hand with state and local agencies, business leaders, and community organizations to ensure that our research is not only rigorous but also immediately applicable. Whether through training and technical assistance, data analysis, policy development, or field-based research, we strive to be a trusted resource for those who serve and protect our communities.
At the NIMSAT Institute, we are proud to support the operation of the Louisiana Business Emergency Operations Center (LABEOC), a cornerstone of our mission to enhance Louisiana's resilience. LABEOC serves as a vital conduit, connecting the public sector, private industry, and non-profit organizations to deliver critical operational support during disasters. From preparedness and planning to immediate response and long-term recovery, our work ensures that Louisiana’s communities and businesses are ready to face and recover from any challenge. Through collaboration, innovation, and research-based strategies, we are dedicated to building a stronger, more resilient Louisiana.
We are proud to be part of the Informatics Research Institute, a research entity that brings together the resources and expertise of numerous research Centers, including the Accessible Healthcare for AI-Augmented Decisions (AHeAD) Center, the Center for Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity (CCIC), and the Louisiana Center for Health Innovation (LCHI).
As we look to the future, we remain focused on building a safer, more resilient Louisiana—together. Thank you for your partnership and for the critical work you do.
Sincerely,
Shannon Strother
Director, NIMSAT Institute