BATON ROUGE, FEBRUARY 20, 2024 -- The American Red Cross of Louisiana welcomed Micah Nicholas as the Executive Director of the Capital-West Chapter this week. In his new role, Nicholas will oversee the delivery of Red Cross programs and services to more than a million residents across 22 parishes, which include Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles and surrounding areas.

Nicholas, a Louisiana native, has a rich background in nonprofit leadership and a career dedicated to purpose-driven work. He most recently served as the Director of Impact for United Way of Acadiana, where he oversaw several transformative community projects that improved the lives of individuals throughout United Way’s five-parish footprint.  

Ed Bush, Regional Disaster Officer, praised Nicholas’ appointment: “Micah‘s commitment to improving the lives of Louisianans, coupled with his leadership and extensive engagement with community leaders, makes him the perfect fit for this role.” Nicholas succeeds Bush, who was recently selected as Regional Disaster Officer of Louisiana Red Cross. 

In his capacity as Executive Director, Nicholas will be responsible for leading the Chapter, inspiring board members, coordinating with local community partners, working alongside elected officials and organizing fundraising efforts. He will play a pivotal role in engaging and mobilizing volunteers, which is crucial to the success of the Red Cross mission. 

“I've always known that a service-driven career was for me,” said Nicholas. “At a young age, I realized that service to others is not just a duty, but a purpose that shapes our hearts and empowers our communities.”

Nicholas, an award-winning trailblazer recognized for his innovative leadership, serves on several boards throughout Acadiana, including Solomon House and the Episcopal School of Acadiana. He is currently the president-elect for the705, Acadiana’s premier young professionals’ organization. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Sewanee: The University of the South and a master's degree in nonprofit administration with a specialization in disaster preparedness from Louisiana State University at Shreveport.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.