Summer 2010 Cornerstone by LSU Foundation

A Publication Devoted to the Benefactors of the LSU Foundation Director of Foundation Communications

EDITOR EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Sara E. Crow

Scott M. Madere Amanda Eisman Tammy Abshire Ginger Guttner Mimi LaValle

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Eddy Perez Rachel Saltzberg Jim Zietz

Cover: Gov. Bobby Jindal and LSU students celebrate the groundbreaking of the Business Education Complex.

CORNERSTONE â&#x20AC;˘ SUMMER 2010

SUMMER 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Volume 22, Number 1 A yellow-crowned night heron was the first non-oiled injured bird brought to LSU following the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

6 8 9 11 12

Construction Commences on LSU Business Education Complex

LSU Laboratory School Names High School Wing Honoring William Louis Albritton

Entergy Gift to LSU

Les and Dot Broussard Honored

LSU Rural Life Museum Opens New Visitor Center

Devon Wade Becomes LSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sixth

to Business Education Complex

for Campaign Gifts Benefiting Basic Sciences and Electrical & Computer Engineering

Janice H. Pellar and EMCO Technologies

20 22

Engineering Outreach Gets a Lift

Truman Scholarship Recipient

Amedisys Pledges $1 Million

Engineered to Develop Workforce for Louisiana

Make Creative Arts Entrepreneurialship a Reality

from BP Solar Buggy Donation

Campus Beautification Fund Supports First Annual Spring Greening Day

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LSU Hilltop Arboretum Receives Over $1 Million from Supporters

Chevron Presents $900,000 to College of Engineering

Louisiana Business Emergency Operations Center Opens at LSU

Alumnus Clarence M. Eidt Jr. Makes Generous Gift to Engineering

Dear Friends,

What can we, as individuals, do to make a meaningful impact? The Forever LSU

This is a very important time to be a

Campaign places a high priority on the areas

supporter of LSU. The current worldwide

of faculty and student support. Specifically,

economic situation is an historic challenge

scholarships, professorships and fellowships

that necessitates changes in the ways our

are areas of critical importance that we—

university operates and sets priorities.

alumni and friends of LSU—can affect through

Maintaining and cultivating our tradition of

our giving. Growing LSU’s endowment is also

student, faculty and research excellence is

a very important priority; the health of the

critical—we have come too far to allow our

endowment is directly tied to LSU’s ability to

outstanding growth to come to a halt. LSU has emerged as a destination for high-achieving students and distinguished faculty, one that represents

both sustain itself and to reach the next level of achievement as a university. Your past actions in support of our university have

what is best about the people and culture of Louisiana. We

shown us the path forward. As we celebrate 150 years of

continue to be a Tier One institution that is nationally

LSU this year, I hope you have taken or will take time to

recognized for academic achievement and research. When

visit the campus, re-engage with the things you love about

you support LSU academics through the LSU Foundation,

LSU, and get to know the students and faculty whom

you send a signal that you have confidence in LSU, and

you support.

that efforts to support academic achievement are important

LSU would not be the great university it is without the

to you. There has never been a more important time to

involvement, vision and commitment of our loyal

send that message.

supporters. We are grateful for your active role in shaping

It is no secret that LSU is experiencing a budgetary crisis.

LSU’s future.

There is less state support available for LSU than in years past, and changes will have to be made. Among these is a

Forever LSU,

greater commitment from our university community to embrace private philanthropy as a means of supporting our most critical goals. State funding has allowed LSU to operate and to educate hundreds of thousands of alumni, but it has not been enough to achieve the level of performance expected of a national flagship institution.

Maj. Gen. William G. Bowdon, USMC (Retired)

That is where our responsibility as alumni and friends of

President and CEO, LSU Foundation

LSU begins.

n March, LSU Chancellor Michael Martin and E. J. Ourso College of

Business Dean Eli Jones co-hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the LSU

Business Education Complex, future home of the E. J. Ourso College of Business. The crowd of ceremony guests, which gathered in the parking lot east of Patrick F. Taylor Hall, included Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and Baton Rouge Mayor-President Kip Holden.

CORNERSTONE â&#x20AC;˘ SUMMER 2010

“We made this historic investment because it was a

Jones lauded Jimmy Maurin of Stirling Properties and Bill

tremendous step to strengthen the future of our flagship

Slaughter of SSA Consultants, co-chairs of the E. J. Ourso

university,” Jindal said. “Indeed, this groundbreaking marks

College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council’s Louisiana

an important commitment to helping LSU develop into a

Business Building Oversight Committee.

highly competitive institution rivaling the very best universities in the world. This project is truly a partnership

“The leadership of Jimmy and Bill throughout this entire process has been exemplary,” Jones said. “It is a reflection of

between the private sector and the

what we have seen all throughout the

public sector, and it demonstrates our

DAC membership in regard to the BEC,

shared vision of producing first-class

and I am grateful for all of their

entrepreneurs of the next generation

guidance and assistance in making sure

right here in Louisiana.”

this project was green-lit. We still have

In November 2009, Jindal announced

a ways to go as far as fundraising for

the state’s $30 million commitment in

the BEC is concerned, but we are

capital outlay funds for the BEC, in

certainly nearing the point where the

turn immediately authorizing the

premier business education facility in

opening of the construction bid process. The winning bid was submitted by The Lemoine Company,

which faculty will teach and conduct Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal addresses the crowd gathered for the groundbreaking of the new Business Education Complex.

which counts among its completed

research and tomorrow’s business leaders will learn is within sight.” The Lemoine Company took over the

projects the Cox Communications

BEC site March 1, and the anticipated

Center for Student-Athletes on LSU’s

completion date for the complex is

campus and the LSU Museum of Art in

spring 2012. The BEC will be composed

downtown Baton Rouge.

of a four-story rotunda, two banks of

“This collaborative effort with the

pavilions housing classrooms and

state is a perfect example of how LSU

departmental offices, and a structure

and the Legislature can support one

featuring an auditorium and graduate

another,” Martin said. “For the past few

classrooms.

decades, the university has delivered on

A construction camera, a

its promise to the state to gain national prominence. Building the Business

construction blog and BEC floor plans Chancellor Emeritus William Jenkins signs his name on a concrete slab that commemorates the groundbreaking.

Education Complex and continuing to

are available online at www.bus.lsu.edu/building.

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educate tomorrow’s business and industry leaders with as many advantages as possible is our next promise.”

Top left: Dignitaries officially break ground on the massive construction project, the completion of which is a central goal of the Forever LSU Campaign.

ceremony was held January 15 to officially name the LSU Laboratory School (“U-High”) high school wing for William Louis Albritton, an LSU alumnus, a World War II veteran, and father of Carol Albritton Biedenharn, a prominent Laboratory School supporter and alumna. The naming of W.L. Albritton Hall was made possible by a contribution Biedenharn made to the LSU Laboratory School Foundation, helping the LSU Laboratory School Foundation exceed its $5 million campaign goal. Gifts contributed by all sources to the LSU Laboratory School Foundation’s Capital Campaign (currently totaling $6.3 million) are also counted toward the university-wide Forever LSU Campaign. “I already had a pledge in mind, and when I saw the opportunity to have the Albritton name on the high school building, considering the history of my grandfather and father, both graduates of LSU, it seemed appropriate,” Biedenharn shared. “Everything I am and everything I have done in my life I owe to experiences gained from U-High. I have been very humbled by the honors bestowed on me. The faculty, the service organizations, many of the students both in my class and from other classes, meant so much to me. I find myself fortunate to have the means to help, and I was honored to have the opportunity to thank people who give back to the institution that helped mold me. I’ve grown to appreciate all my learning experiences at U-High and have grown up to love and appreciate Baton Rouge.” Biedenharn’s father was a native and resident of Baton Rouge for 86 years at the time of his passing, in 1994. Albritton was a Navy Lieutenant Commander of the U.S. during World War II and a 1930 graduate of the LSU Law School. He was also a member of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation, Baton Rouge Country Club, City Club, Baton Rouge Assembly, Ducks Unlimited, and Baton Rouge Bar Association. Dating back to LSU’s founding in 1860, numerous members of the Albritton family have graduated from LSU. Biedenharn recollects, “My father was extremely proud of his father, Alvin, who was recognized as one of the University’s youngest graduates with a double major.” Alvin was also a native and resident of Baton Rouge and was an 1899 graduate of LSU’s Civil Engineering program and a member of the first graduating class at the LSU Law School in 1908.

Biedenharn graduated from LSU Laboratory School in 1974 and was very active during her eight years at the school. She was a member of the National Honor Society and active in Student Council, serving as representative her sophomore year, secretary her junior year, and president her senior year. Biedenharn represented the LSU Laboratory School at District and State Rally in typing, placing first at State Rally two years in a row. She says these experiences “prepared me for life in general.” “No matter how long I am away, Baton Rouge is always home, and I am always drawn to U-High,” she said.

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Ceremony guests celebrate the naming of W. L. Albritton Hall.

The Biedenharn family stands in front of the newly named W.L. Albritton Hall at U-High.

CORNERSTONE / SUMMER 2010

he LSU Rural Life Museum’s newly renovated, expanded Visitor Center opened January 15. The 20,000-square-foot addition includes a lobby, an expanded gift shop, a multiuse interpretive movie room, exhibit space, classroom/lecture space, restrooms and administrative/volunteer offices. The purpose of the new facility is to enhance the visitor experience, protect valuable collections, and ensure successful future growth of the museum. “This is an important day for LSU and for our visitors from around the state and beyond,” said LSU Rural Life Museum Director David Floyd. “We have a commitment to educate our students and visitors, and the completion of this building is an important step toward fulfilling our mission. I believe Steele and Ione Burden would be proud of what LSU and Rural Life Museum officials stand beside the locomotive in the new Visitor Center courtyard on we have opening day. accomplished.” The Visitor Center expansion

and renovation was made possible by the Whispers of Change fundraising campaign, initiated by the Friends of the LSU Rural Life Museum. Donors generously gave more than $5 million to complete this transformative project. John and Frances Monroe, general chairs, and John Barton Sr., Dr. Paul Murrill and Sue Turner, honorary chairs, led efforts to build community support. The LSU Rural Life Museum is located on property donated to LSU by Steele and Ione Burden and Mr. and Mrs. Pike Burden. The museum provides insight into the lifestyle and culture of 18thand 19th-century Louisianans. It features the largest collection of material culture of 19th-century Louisiana and contains 32 historic buildings on 25 acres. Designers of the Visitor Center took special care to preserve the rural setting and feel of “days gone by,” in keeping with the Burden family’s vision for the museum and gardens.

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A mule “breaks the gate” on the new facility.

Construction Underway on New U-High Gymnasium

SU Laboratory School faculty, parents, alumni and students gathered May 6 to

officially break ground on a new gymnasium and physical education and performing arts center. This is the latest in a series of improvements that have transformed LSU Laboratory School’s campus environment in recent years. The new structure will provide an assembly area capable of hosting the school’s entire elementary, middle and high school student population. The school’s athletic teams and various student organizations will also have space to compete and perform within the new facility.

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E ExxonMobil representatives and LSU officials celebrate the third consecutive year in which the University has received more than $1 million in matching funds from the organization.

xxonMobil employees and retirees continued their longstanding support of LSU academics with a $1,129,585 gift from the ExxonMobil Foundation, presented April 30 to the LSU Foundation and the Forever LSU Campaign. Included were many individual gifts that were eligible for ExxonMobil’s Educational Matching Gift Program in 2009. This is the third consecutive year in which LSU has received more than $1 million in matching funds from ExxonMobil. “The consistent and generous support of ExxonMobil and its employees, retirees and annuitants means so much to the students and faculty of our university,” said Maj. Gen. William Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Foundation. “We are honored to have ExxonMobil as a friend of LSU, and we thank them deeply for the leadership and vision they show to higher education through their matching gift program. This is only one of many examples why ExxonMobil is admired in our community and across the globe.” ExxonMobil’s Educational Matching Gift Program is a leader in private industry, having donated to colleges and universities nationwide for several years. In 2008, LSU became the first university in the world to receive more than $1 million in matching funds from ExxonMobil in one calendar year. “These generous donations from ExxonMobil employees and retirees validate their belief in higher education as an investment for the future,” said Baton Rouge Refinery Manager Steve Blume. “This focus on education is paving the way for leaders of tomorrow who will be crucial for the continued success of our country.” Participants in the ExxonMobil Educational Matching Gift Program include current employees, retirees, annuitants and surviving spouses of former employees and company directors. Since its inception in 1962, the program has provided more than $423 million to higher education in the U.S.

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CORNERSTONE / SUMMER 2010

Roger H. Ogden Recognized for Outstanding Support of the LSU Honors College public service. The college’s selective admissions program he LSU Honors College and the Forever LSU campaign requires a 30 ACT and a 3.5 GPA. recognized longtime supporter Roger H. Ogden at a “The goals of the LSU Honors College go beyond academic ceremony held March 16 in the historic LSU French House. excellence,” said Nancy Clark, dean. “The Honors College Ogden’s vision for and generosity toward the Honors College’s experience fosters community and develops leaders in an students, faculty and staff was most recently exemplified by his environment that challenges and gift to create the Roger H. Ogden enlightens. There is certainly no better Deanship, a $1 million professorship that example for our students and faculty to provides endowed support to the dean in emulate than Roger Ogden, who honor of Ogden’s son, Roger Hadfield consistently provides the type of “Field” Ogden. leadership that impacts learning across “As Louisianans, one of the most LSU’s campus.” important things we can do for the Ogden is a 1968 business graduate of future of the state is to support the LSU who has led a lifetime of service to flagship university and, in particular, the the university, beginning with his role as Honors College. The LSU Honors College student body president and continuing is our best bet for keeping the very best into professional life through his and brightest in Louisiana. It is these (L-to-R): Maj. Gen. William G. Bowdon, president and involvement with multiple colleges at youngsters who qualify to go to the CEO of the LSU Foundation; Nancy Clark, dean of the LSU, among them the Honors College, Harvards, Stanfords or Dukes that we Honors College; Roger Houston Ogden; Roger Hadfield the E. J. Ourso College of Business and most desire to keep in Louisiana and “Field” Ogden; Astrid Merget, former LSU executive vice chancellor and provost; and Michael Martin, the College of Art & Design. Ogden has who, together with LSU, will lead this LSU chancellor also served on the LSU Board of state to unimaginable heights in this Supervisors, including as its chair. He is new century,” Ogden said of his support. a resident of New Orleans and owns Ogden Development and Created in 1992, the LSU Honors College is a four-year residential college comprised by 1,500 of LSU’s highest achieving Investments, which specializes in commercial real estate development. He is also a founding partner of Stirling students in all majors. They are served through a dynamic Properties. interaction of outstanding instruction, innovative research and

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Devon Wade Becomes LSU’s Sixth Truman Scholarship Recipient T

“They do not have to be a victim of their circumstances his spring, Devon Wade became the sixth LSU student or surroundings,” Wade said of his passion to inspire and first African American LSU student to be awarded children from disadvantaged backgrounds. “I want to the prestigious Harry S. Truman Scholarship. Wade, 20, is show them that I did not let that determine my path in a rising senior at LSU double-majoring in Sociology, with life, and neither should they,” Wade said. a concentration in Criminology, and African & African Wade is one of 60 Truman Scholars this year—selected American Studies. He will graduate in December 2010. from a pool of 576 candidates—who collectively represent A true example of defying the odds, Wade and his three 54 colleges and universities nationwide. Wade is the only brothers were raised by their maternal grandparents recipient chosen from Louisiana and the first LSU recipient because Wade’s father is in federal prison and his mother Devon Wade who is not also a part of the Honors College. He follows in has been in and out of state prison. He grew up wanting to the footsteps of Micaela de Gruy (2009), Claire Kendig (2008), be a law enforcement officer and to major in African and African Cynthia “CC” Dubois (2006), Jacob Landry (2005), and Allen American studies to learn about his roots. Richey (2003). An LSU student has reached the finalist stage of the “My grandmother always told me to be at the top of everything I do, so I figured being an FBI Special Agent was at the top because Truman Scholarship process in seven of the past eight years. The Truman Scholarship Foundation was established in 1975 by they need a four-year degree,” Wade said. Congress as the federal memorial to the late President Harry S. While in high school, Wade earned college credits at Houston Truman. The purpose of the scholarship, which provides up to Community College and spent a summer abroad studying at the $30,000 for graduate study, is to recognize college students with University of Dar es Salaam in Africa. At LSU, Wade is involved in the local NAACP chapter and College Democrats. He also serves as exceptional leadership potential who are committed to careers in government, the nonprofit or advocacy sectors, education or a mentor for No More Victims, Inc., an organization that provides 11 other areas in public service. aid to children of incarcerated parents.

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medisys Home Health Services, a leading provider of home health care and

hospice services, pledged $1 million to the Forever LSU Campaign for the

construction of the LSU Business Education Complex, the new home for

LSU’s E. J. Ourso College of Business. “At Amedisys, we believe learning provides the impetus for a substantial

competitive advantage in the marketplace,” said Bill Borne, Amedisys’ chief executive officer and chairman of the board. “As a learning organization, we are fully committed to supporting the university’s efforts to enhance learning opportunities for students in the E. J. Ourso College of Business. Our $1 million gift represents our commitment not only to learning within our organization, but also to the greater community that we serve.” Borne founded Amedisys in 1982. His leadership has resulted in the company being recognized by various media outlets, including Inc. magazine, Investor’s Business Daily, Forbes magazine, TheStreet.com, CNBC, BusinessWeek and (L-to-R): Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Bill Borne, chief executive officer and chairman of the board for Amedisys; Eli Jones, dean of the E. J. Ourso College of Business; Maj. Gen. William G. Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Foundation

Fortune magazine. In 1990, Borne was named The Greater Baton Rouge Business Report’s Young Businessperson of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2004, Forbes magazine named him its Entrepreneur of the Year, and he received the Guardian Angel Award from the Caring Institute. Three years later, Borne served as a speaker for the LSU Flores MBA Alumni Association-Louisiana Chapter’s “Louisiana Looking Up 2007” event. He currently serves on the E. J. Ourso College’s Dean’s Advisory Council and was inducted into the college’s Hall of Distinction in 2009.

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Where Am I?

ow well do you know campus? Can you identify where

this campus detail resides? The answer appears later in

this issue!

CORNERSTONE / SUMMER 2010

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LSU Hilltop Arboretum Receives Over $1 Million from Supporters sustainable building. embers of the Friends of Hilltop have, along with other The LSU Hilltop Arboretum strives to be a nationally individuals, corporations and foundations, collectively recognized center for the study of plants and landscape design. contributed $1,066,494 in cash and pledges to the Forever LSU The 14-acre nature preserve is noted for its collection of more Campaign for the construction of an enclosed educational than 150 species of plants native to Louisiana, its unique facility at the LSU Hilltop Arboretum on Highland Road. topography, and its reputation as a Since 1998, Friends of Hilltop has readily accessible space where people included in its long-range master plan can experience and learn about nature, an enclosed facility that would serve as a plants and the Louisiana landscape. model of sustainable building practices Stewardship of Hilltop is shared by the and environmental stewardship for the LSU Reich School of Landscape residents of Louisiana. This new Architecture and Friends of Hilltop. structure is part of Lake/Flato Architects’ Hilltop is an integral part of the school, original architectural design, which which uses the Arboretum in its includes the buildings that now house research, teaching and service activities. Hilltop’s administrative offices, library, Friends of Hilltop is a nonprofit gift shop and open-air Margaret Homes corporation established to maintain and Brown pavilion, built in 2000. improve the property donated by Emory Lake/Flato of San Antonio, Texas, is (L-to-R): Dr. Paul W. Murrill, co-president of the Friends of Hilltop Board of Governors; Jeff McLain, vice president Smith to LSU in 1981. In addition to internationally recognized for for development for the LSU Foundation; Cathy Coates, maintaining and improving the site, environmentally responsible design. co-president of the Friends of Hilltop Board of Governors; Friends of Hilltop annually hosts As LSU’s first LEED-certified structure, Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; and David Cronrath, educational activities and programs for the new building will be both an former dean of the College of Art & Design more than 5,000 people, including educational tool and an example to the children of all ages, adults and professionals seeking continuing community. LEED, an acronym for Leadership in Energy and education credits. Environmental Design, is the international benchmark for

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Cazalot-Marathon Oil Corporation Atrium Opens Marathon Oil Corporation in 2002. He is SU’s College of Science and its the only CEO of a Fortune Top 50 Department of Geology & Geophysics company who graduated from a school in held a ribbon-cutting ceremony March 31 the Southeastern Conference. for the grand opening of the newly Cazalot’s generosity and commitment renovated Clarence P. Cazalot, to LSU are directly responsible for the Jr./Marathon Oil Corporation Atrium in creation of the Marathon Geoscience the Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex. Diversity Enrichment Program, which Funds for the renovation were donated to provides funding for 20 undergraduate the project through the LSU Foundation scholarships and five graduate fellowships as a gift to the Forever LSU Campaign. that target high-achieving students from The atrium, which has been heavily underrepresented groups. used by students as a gathering place, is In addition, his personal gifts and those now a multipurpose showplace that offers The ribbon is cut on the newly renovated CazalotMarathon Oil Corporation Atrium. (L-to-R): Maj. Gen. made through Marathon have created the room for lectures, meetings, presentations William G. Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Marathon Oil Corporation Distinguished and recruiting programs for Geology Foundation; Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Clarence Speaker Series and provided support for P. Cazalot Jr., president and CEO of Marathon Oil students, who are recruited by Corporation; and Kevin Carman, dean of the College the renovation of the LSU Geology Field petrochemical, engineering, construction, of Science Camp outside Colorado Springs, Colo. design and other organizations worldwide, Cazalot and Marathon Oil Corporation are the principal as well as by top graduate programs for careers in academia. supporters of the Applied Depositional Geosystems Clarence P. Cazalot Jr., a 1972 graduate of LSU with a program, an industry-focused graduate curriculum. bachelor’s degree in Geology, became president and CEO of

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Chevron Presents $900,000 to College of Engineering C

hevron recently presented a $900,000 pledge payment to the Forever LSU Campaign as part of its ongoing “Achieving Excellence Together” partnership with LSU. The gift is a component of the company’s University Partnership Program. Programs supported by the gift are the Chevron Petroleum Engineering Emerging Faculty Recruitment Fund in the Craft & Hawkins Department of Petroleum Engineering; the Chevron Engineering Professorship Support and Development Fund, in several engineering departments; the Chevron Engineering PostDoctoral and Graduate Student Fellowship Fund, in engineering disciplines for which awards will be given competitively to qualified applicants, with preference to underrepresented groups; and the Chevron Engineering Multi-disciplinary Reservoir Visualization Center, a program that will be based in the Craft & Hawkins Department of Petroleum Engineering to benefit students in Petroleum Engineering, Geology & Geophysics, and Information Systems & Decision Sciences. “LSU’s College of Engineering has enjoyed a strong and productive relationship with Chevron that has expanded over multiple decades,” stated Richard Koubek, dean of the College of Engineering. “Chevron’s gift showcases the positive influence of the college’s partnership with industry to transform lives through our students, research, alumni and global community. We are grateful to have the support and cooperation from an energy

leader such as Chevron.” More than 400 current Chevron employees worldwide (L-to-R): Richard Koubek, dean of the College of received degrees from Engineering; Bill Hunter, manager of Chevron Corporation’s University Partnership Program and LSU. Each year, LSU alumnus; Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Chevron matches Stuart Watkins, Student Government president about $150,000 in employee gifts to LSU, doubling the impact of its employees’ philanthropic support. “Chevron has an unwavering commitment to being a good partner focused on building productive, collaborative, trusting and beneficial relationships,” said Clay Neff, Chevron general manager of operations. “Chevron still believes there is no better example of that commitment than our continued partnership with LSU.” On February 28, 2008, LSU announced a $4.75 million gift commitment from Chevron Corporation—the largest one-time corporate cash donation to the LSU Foundation in its history. The current $900,000 pledge payment is the second installment of that commitment. Prior to the gift announced in 2008, Chevron Corporation had given more than $2.4 million to LSU, primarily through gifts designated to the College of Engineering.

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Alumnus Clarence M. Eidt Jr. Makes Generous Gift to Engineering

larence M. Eidt Jr. recently donated $600,000 to the Gordon A. & Mary Cain Department of Chemical Engineering. Eidt is a two-time LSU alumnus, holding bachelor’s (1956) and master’s (1962) degrees in Chemical Engineering. “Mr. Eidt’s contribution to the department will help us tremendously with our drive towards acquiring the private funds necessary to make our new chemical engineering building a reality,” explained Dr. K.T. Valsaraj, chair of the Gordon & Mary Cain Department of Chemical Engineering. Most of Eidt’s gift ($500,000) will help fund the new Chemical Engineering Building, while the remainder will contribute to his two existing Chemical Engineering professorships. This $100,000 portion is eligible for a state match, thereby increasing the donation by $40,000. Eidt said of his decision to donate, “Having personally benefited from the generosity of earlier alumni, with an out-of-state scholarship, it simply seemed appropriate for me to now do my part. I’m also convinced that a much stronger tradition of alumni support is critical to the College of Engineering and the Chemical Engineering Department achieving ever higher levels of performance and recognition.” A native of Natchez, Miss., Eidt started his career in engineering in 1956 with Exxon’s Research and Development Laboratories in Baton

CORNERSTONE • SUMMER 2010

Rouge. He held several positions with the company, rising to president of Exxon Research and Engineering in October 1993. Eidt held this position until his retirement in December Clarence Eidt Jr. and Jeff McLain, vice 1997. During his career president for development for the LSU with Exxon, Eidt received Foundation multiple patents for technological advances in his field and authored several publications. Eidt is a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, the American Petroleum Institute, and the Society of Automotive Engineers. He was a chair of the LSU ChE Industry Advisory Board and was inducted into the LSU Engineering Hall of Distinction in 1985. With regard to LSU’s role in his career in engineering, Eidt said, “In addition to acquiring a sound foundation in chemical engineering fundamentals, my experience with department faculty sparked a lifelong interest in technology and technology development. This was subsequently satisfied by a rewarding 42-year career with Exxon involved in industrial R&D and engineering work.”

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Wolferts Donate to the Construction of New Business Education Complex

ick and Holly Wolfert of Greensboro, Ga., recently donated $500,000 to the Forever LSU Campaign for the construction of LSU’s Business Education Complex. The Wolferts previously established the Frederick E. “Rick” and Holly A. Wolfert Professorship in Business. “Holly and Rick’s dedication to the Business Education Complex is tremendous,” said E. J. Ourso College Dean Eli Jones. “We thank the Wolferts for their generosity and their time. They

truly exemplify the spirit of LSU.” Rick is the president and chief executive officer of Tygris Commercial Finance Group, Inc., a commercial finance company that provides liquidity and growth capital to middle-market companies throughout North America, and he has held a number of executive and management positions with other financial services companies. He is a member of the Louisiana Business Building Oversight Committee on the E. J. Ourso College Dean’s Advisory Council and has been inducted into the college’s Hall of Distinction. “When the Business Education Complex is completed, LSU students and faculty will have the benefit of a modern facility that

Holly and Rick Wolfert

Entergy Gift to LSU Engineered to Develop Workforce for Louisiana

(L-to-R): Richard Koubek, dean of the College of Engineering; Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Renae Conley, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Louisiana; Timothy G. Mitchell, senior vice president of Engineering and Technical Services for Entergy Nuclear; Astrid Merget, former executive vice chancellor and provost; Kevin Carman, dean of the College of Science

is critically needed to attract outstanding students and faculty and allow the college to pursue its vision to be recognized as one of the nation’s premier business schools,” said Rick. “Holly and I are excited to see the terrific progress that has been made with the building campaign and are pleased to have played a part in it.” Rick and Holly Wolfert graduated from LSU in 1976, earning bachelor’s degrees in secondary education and marketing, respectively. Rick is also a graduate of the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Delaware. During his time at LSU, Rick played basketball under Coach Dale Brown.

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he future of engineering and nuclear physics in Louisiana got a boost last November, when Entergy and the Entergy Charitable Foundation awarded $249,972 to the Forever LSU campaign for multiple initiatives. The gift will allow LSU to strengthen the power program in Electrical Engineering and jump-start a nuclear engineering and health physics program aimed at encouraging students to pursue careers in nuclear power production. The program will be held jointly in the Colleges of Engineering and Science. “This is a strategic investment in the future workforce of Louisiana to make our state more attractive for energy research, development and manufacturing,” said Renae Conley, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Louisiana, Inc. “The students who graduate from this program will be an incredible resource not only for Entergy, but also for businesses and industry throughout Louisiana.” A portion of the gift will establish the Entergy Doctoral Scholars Program in Power Systems to support faculty and research for power education in the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering. Entergy has also donated four power simulators for use in the ECE Power Systems Laboratory. “We’re extremely thankful to Entergy for this generous grant to help us better equip Louisiana State University’s students for future careers right here at home,” said LSU Chancellor Michael Martin. Producing electricity using nuclear energy is becoming more relevant as the benefits to customers—including lower fuel costs and less impact on the environment—become more obvious. The award will facilitate the design and implementation of a workforce development program provided through a unique collaboration between LSU’s Departments of Physics & Astronomy and Mechanical Engineering. The program will prepare students for a variety of careers in the field of nuclear power production. Young people in Louisiana need to know that Entergy is a leader in the power industry, and that there are many opportunities for future careers in their own backyard,” said John Herron, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Nuclear. “

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Les and Dot Broussard Honored for Campaign Gifts Benefiting Basic Sciences and Electrical & Computer Engineering maintaining outstanding quality ECE graduates,” said Aravena. es and Dot Broussard were honored by the university with a “Dot and I are pleased to support LSU’s academic mission celebratory luncheon recognizing their philanthropic gifts to through the Forever LSU Campaign. I am indebted to LSU for my the Forever LSU Campaign. professional accomplishments and believe “On behalf of the students, faculty and that the University’s preparation of its staff, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Les graduates is second to none,” said Les of his and Dot. Their gift further underscores the longstanding support of LSU. “LSU is a couple’s commitment to the future of beautiful place where my son and I were engineering education,” said Dr. Jorge prepared to venture out into the real world.” Aravena, interim chair for the Department Les is a 1958 Electrical Engineering of Electrical & Computer Engineering. alumnus who retired as plant manager from The Broussards established an alumni Mobil’s Beaumont facility in 1993. He held professorship in the College of Science and a various management positions in scholarship in Electrical & Computer engineering, maintenance, economics & Engineering, and provided support for the planning, operations, and plant and ECE Revitalization Initiative. (L-to-R): Dr. Jorge Aravena, interim chair for the refinery management in his 36 years with The ECE Revitalization Initiative seeks to Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering; the company. improve and enhance programs and Les Broussard; Dot Broussard; Richard Koubek, The recipient of the Les and Dot Broussard facilities in the ECE Department by dean of the College of Engineering professorship in Science is Dr. Brian J. Hales, providing the financial resources for an adjunct professor of biophysical/bioinorganic chemistry who significant and much-needed upgrading of ECE’s laboratories and has held the professorship since February 2006. His research focuses equipment, as well as for important enhancements to current and on the different roles trace metals play in biology. planned ECE educational programs. “State-of-the-art facilities and modern programs are essential to

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CSRS, Inc., Pledges $180,000 Civil and Environmental Engineering career in coastal protection and restoration engineering. SRS, Inc., a Baton Rouge-based engineering, architectural “This professorship marks a progressive step of paramount and program management firm, pledged $180,000 to importance for the LSU Coastal Engineering program and our establish and fund an endowed distinguished professorship in efforts to provide research and development of engineering Coastal Engineering in the Department of Civil & systems and processes for estuarine-based coastlines,” said College Environmental Engineering. of Engineering Dean Richard Koubek. “This gift will be a tremendous asset in helping us to retain topWith an expected match of $120,000 from the Louisiana Board quality faculty for our new Coastal Engineering program,” stated of Regents, the professorship will help LSU faculty address the George Z. Voyiadjis, Boyd Professor and chair of the Department of continuous threat of coastal flooding, the erosion of Louisiana’s Civil & Environmental Engineering. “We are very appreciative to barrier islands, and the loss of coastal wetlands. the CSRS partners, including LSU Engineering alumni Michael “As first-hand observers to the very real challenge of protecting Songy and Ron Rodi, for their generous support of this vital effort.” and restoring Louisiana’s The CSRS Distinguished coastline, CSRS is Professorship in Coastal committed to helping LSU Engineering is the first gift initiate this unique and established to support promising program aimed faculty for LSU’s new at the development of Coastal Engineering engineering systems and program. The Coastal processes for coastal Engineering program at restoration,” said CSRS LSU was developed in Principal Ronald Rodi, P.E. response to the increased “While this gift is the first emphasis placed statewide of its kind, it is our hope on addressing the crisis of (L-to-R): Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Dr. George Voyiadjis, chair, Boyd Professor and Bingham C. Stewart Distinguished Professor for Civil and Environmental Engineering; Astrid that our gift will Louisiana’s deteriorating Merget, former executive vice chancellor and provost; Garret Graves, director of coastal activities for encourage others in the coastline. The program the Office of the Governor; Ron Rodi, principal for CSRS; Michael Songy, principal for CSRS; Chris community to similarly provides a unique Pellegrin, principal for CSRS; Curt Soderberg, principal for CSRS; Richard Koubek, dean of the show their support for this opportunity for those College of Engineering; Maj. Gen. Bill Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Foundation program.” choosing to pursue a

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Classroom Naming Acknowledges Richard and Seola Edwards’ Contributions establishing the Ubaye Valley Program Endowed Professorship, ichard “Dick” and Seola “CeCe” Edwards were officially honoring Mr. and Mrs. Jean Mercier, Mr. and Mrs. Jean Robert, recognized for their contributions to French Studies at LSU and Mr. and Mrs. Pierre Martin Charpenel. This professorship was with the naming of the Seola Arnaud Edwards and Richard V. established in recognition of three couples who are civic leaders in Edwards Jr. Classroom. Located in 424 Hodges Hall in the the Ubaye Valley in southeastern France and who have played a Department of French Studies, the classroom is equipped for crucial role in providing local community support for the multimedia presentations and lectures. immersion program that enables 20 LSU students to study in The Edwards have given more than $250,000 to LSU during the France each summer. The region is the Forever LSU Campaign, gifts that reflect ancestral home of the Arnauds, and the their enduring support for French language Edwards have been tireless financial and studies and for preserving Louisiana’s moral supporters of the program, its faculty French cultural heritage. In addition to their and the LSU students who have studied active participation in the Friends of French there. Studies at LSU, they have established three “Mr. and Mrs. Edwards’ personal endowed professorships in French Studies, investment in the French Department at including one honoring Jacques Arnaud, LSU is immeasurable,” commented Kevin CeCe’s ancestor and the founder of Bongiorni, currently the Ubaye Valley Arnaudville, La., and another honoring her Professor of French Studies. “The parents, Albert and Angelle Arnaud. Dick and CeCe Edwards cut the ribbon to the department’s flagship program, LSU in the “Dick and CeCe Edwards’ endowment of classroom named in their honor. Ubaye Valley program, would not exist three professorships in French Studies, and without them.” the time they have devoted, particularly to the Ubaye Valley The Edwards’ contributions to the Forever LSU Campaign also program, have transformed the lives of many of our students and include an endowed professorship in the College of Science and enhanced the quality of one of the College of Arts and Sciences’ most distinguished departments,” said Gaines Foster, interim dean gifts to the College of Engineering, the LSU Alumni Association, the LSU Rural Life Museum, and the LSU Ag Center. Dick, a 1952 of the College of Arts & Sciences. LSU graduate in Electrical Engineering, and CeCe, a native of The Edwards have recognized CeCe’s family’s connections to Arnaudville, La., reside in The Woodlands, Texas. the town of Arnaudville and Jausiers, its sister city in France, by

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College of Engineering and Fluor Bolster Safety Education

luor Corporation recently announced a $200,000 transformational gift to the Forever LSU Campaign to accelerate progress of the Industrial Safety Research Laboratory, housed in LSU’s Department of Construction Management & Industrial Engineering. Fluor’s contribution will help the CMIE Department lead the College of Engineering’s efforts to enhance the current Industrial Safety Program, integrating safety management, fire protection, risk assessment, conservation of resources, sustainability and field/site engineering and construction. “Louisiana and the Gulf Coast Region are the geographic focal points of much of the nation’s oil and gas industry,” said College of Engineering Dean Richard Koubek. “With global demands increasing, the need for a qualified, highly trained and safetyminded workforce is critical.” The competencies of LSU engineering students are greatly enhanced by their access to lab experience, participation in design projects, and exposure to modern technology and equipment. Fluor has announced an additional $50,000 philanthropic gift for the College of Engineering and LSU Career Services to promote multiple industrial initiatives, including student organizations, diversity camps and student project design and production projects. “Partnering with a major university like LSU that maintains a

premier engineering program helps Fluor in its strategic recruitment and hiring of the next generation of quality personnel who will help (L-to-R): Maj. Gen. William our company provide the Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Foundation; Jim Kenney, engineering, procurement, assistant general counsel and LSU construction and maintenance executive sponsor for Fluor Corp.; services for many of the world’s Jim Lilly, vice president of power most complex and challenging sales for Fluor Corp.; and Richard capital projects,” stated Jim Koubek, dean of the College of Engineering Kenney, LSU alumnus and Fluor’s executive sponsor for LSU College Relations. LSU became a Fluor Partner University in 2007, though Fluor’s historical support of LSU began in 1996. Total contributions exceed $400,000. “Our objective is to build an industrial safety program into a premier venue for conducting health, safety and environmental research and imbuing crucial safety values to engineering students,” said Koubek. “Fluor’s generous gift will help make that goal achievable by providing funding to renovate the facility and purchase equipment vital to hands-on safety instruction that is both smarter and safer.”

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Barineau’s Commitment Sharpens Engineering Communication Skills L

SU’s College of Engineering is known for producing practical, solution-oriented graduates. George W. “Bill” and Stephanie Barineau’s $100,000 pledge to LSU’s Engineering Communication Studio will help these graduates better express their ideas in the workplace. The pledge, which includes a match from ExxonMobil, represents the first private gift that the College of Engineering has received for the studio since its founding as a joint initiative of the college and the Communication across the Curriculum Program. The Bill and Stephanie Barineau Engineering Communication Enrichment Fund will be used to upgrade studio equipment and technology, such as 3-D scanning and printing. “Bill is a 1957 Petroleum Engineering graduate and retired employee of Exxon. During his 35-year career with Exxon, he enjoyed working in the coal industry and engaging in assignments worldwide. It was this experience that interested him in developing the (L-to-R): Students Joshua Board, Civil communication skills of Engineering; Lauren Pattee, Petroleum engineering students. Engineering; and Elizabeth Beard, “I am amazed at the Mechanical Engineering, with Stephanie and George W. “Bill” Barineau advancements in the industry and technology,” said Bill. “LSU taught me the ins and outs of engineering, but we didn’t have the advantage of extensive communication training when I was in school. I remember when I was in management at Exxon, I would see so many capable students who were truly wellversed in engineering but would struggle to communicate their ideas and present themselves. So, I am pleased and excited to see that LSU is taking the lead in preparing students beyond the traditional nuts-and-bolts curriculum.” Stephanie, a former educator, concurs. “LSU students have always been well-prepared and technically bright, but like students around the world, they need to refine their communication skills to be successful. The work that the Communication across the Curriculum and Engineering Communication Studio does touches so many students and faculty, while reaching out across disciplines. That is what we love about this particular gift—the interdisciplinary, crosscommunication nature of the program. It is one of the most worthwhile things we have invested in, and we strongly encourage others to support this much-needed program.” The Barineaus have generously supported many educational enhancements at LSU, including specific gifts to the College of Agriculture for the George Barineau, Jr. Distinguished Professor of Wildlife and Fisheries, in honor of Barineau’s father, and two professorships for the College of Music & Dramatic Arts. In 2006, the Barineaus also established the George William Barineau, III Endowed Professorship in the School of the Coast and Environment.

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CORNERSTONE • SUMMER 2010

Estate Gift Honors the Memory of Manship School Graduate Nancy Norris A

scholarship fund honoring Nancy Norris, a 1973 graduate of the Manship School of Mass Communication, has been enhanced greatly by an estate gift left by her parents, Iris and James Norris. Approximately $125,000 in scholarship support has been allotted to the fund by the will of the elder Norrises, who passed away Nancy Norris in recent years. Linda Villemarette, niece of Iris and James Norris, describes her aunt and uncle’s gift as a fitting memorial to their daughter, who died in September 1994 due to complications associated with asthma. “Nancy was a really loving, moral lady who I respected and loved,” said Villemarette. “My aunt and uncle honored her with this scholarship, and to me it just sealed their love for her with an eternal kiss. Few children are ever honored this way, with such a wonderful perpetual gift from their parents.” Sandra Cordray, a friend of Nancy, created the Nancy Norris Memorial Scholarship fund in 1994. The support allotted to the scholarship fund in the will of Iris and James Norris has a unique feature that will provide a source of continuous funding to Manship students who will benefit from the scholarship in future years. “In addition to the lump sum that was given to Nancy’s scholarship fund, one half of my uncle’s interest in our family property’s mineral rights has been given to the fund, too,” Villemarette explained. “This will mean that Nancy’s scholarship fund should continue to stay ‘endowed’ as long as the earth produces gas here in the Ruston, Louisiana area. “ “The Norris family trusted the LSU Foundation with their ultimate gift. Nancy Norris will be remembered forever through her scholarship,” said Gwen Fairchild, director of planned giving for the LSU Foundation. Though Nancy’s undergraduate work was done at Northeast Louisiana University, she earned her master’s degree at LSU. Villemarette says Nancy always valued her opportunity at LSU and was a tiger her entire life. “Just going to LSU was a treat for her. Tiger fever stayed with her.” After Nancy’s death, Villemarette says Iris and James Norris eagerly awaited news of which Manship student would continue Nancy’s legacy as her scholarship recipient. “She was their only child, so their family line was ending. They decided to set up this scholarship so that she would be remembered and her ‘line’ would continue,” Villemarette said. “My aunt and uncle cherished receiving the notification as to who received the scholarship and what the recipient’s personal story happened to be.” “I am very appreciative of the Norris Memorial Scholarship because, without scholarships such as this one, I wouldn’t have been able to continue my education at LSU,” said Leigh Phillips, the most recent recipient of this scholarship. “I believe the commitment of the Norris family to the Manship School will be carried on by the students they help to educate here.”

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Janice H. Pellar and EMCO Technologies Make Creative Arts Entrepreneurialship a Reality

he generous, long-term contributions of Janice H. Pellar have made possible the creation of the Janice H. Pellar Entrepreneurialship in the Creative Arts. The project will promote careers in digital media, arts administration and internet-based business, introducing LSU’s future professional artists to entrepreneurial concepts and allowing them to design methods for achieving their career goals. The Pellar Entrepreneurialship will focus on real-world challenges and experiential learning and encourage students to explore career possibilities beyond traditional professions, such as performing or teaching. “The only sure thing about the vocational and economic futures of our students is uncertainty,” said Laurence Kaptain, dean of the College of Music & Dramatic Arts. “With that in mind, we need to continue providing high-level artistic and scholarly training, but also assure that our students can identify and develop the transferable skills that will sustain them for a lifetime of contributions to society and self-fulfillment.” The Pellar family is a longtime contributor to LSU. Janice Harvey Pellar earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the LSU School of Music in 1973. In 1988, she was named president of EMCO Technologies, a position she continues today as the company’s chief operating officer. Pellar attributes her LSU education in music and her strict, disciplined regimen as a skilled artist to her success as a businesswoman. “Janice Pellar is a role model for our community, students and

faculty. She has taken her LSU degree and experience in music education and applied the skills she gained here to build a very successful communication technologies firm, EMCO. We are proud of Janice Pellar. We appreciate her generosity, and the permission to use her name, and her company’s name, to launch this original and valuable two-year project for our students,” said Kaptain. Janice and Gerald Pellar have also made an estate gift to the College of Music & Dramatic Arts that will provide meaningful support for the School of Music.

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(L-to-R): Maj. Gen. William G. Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Foundation; Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Janice H. Pellar; Gerald W. Pellar; Lawrence Kaptain, dean of the College of Music & Dramatic Arts; Jane Cassidy, interim director for the School of Music

Sheas Donate to Business Education Complex home to study and to build new SU alumni Beverly and Jerry E. Shea Jr. donated $100,000 to business opportunity.” the Forever LSU Campaign for the construction of the new Jerry is managing director of Business Development for The Business Education Complex. Bayou Companies, Inc., an Insituform Company headquartered in “Jerry and Beverly Shea are dedicated LSU alumni whose gift to New Iberia, La. He is a member and past the BEC exemplifies their commitment chairman of the LSU Board of to making LSU truly exceptional,” said Supervisors, served as chairman of the E. J. Ourso College of Business Dean Eli LSU Alumni Association Board of Jones. “We are so appreciative of their Directors, and has been inducted into loyalty and support of this most the LSU Alumni Association’s Hall of important endeavor.” Distinction. Beverly earned a bachelor’s degree in “The greatest resource of any home economics in 1972 and a master’s university is its people. Jerry and degree in human ecology in 1975. Jerry Beverly Shea reinforce that idea every received a bachelor’s degree in day through their personal involvement petroleum engineering in 1972 and an with LSU and through the impact of MBA in 1974. their giving to LSU academics,” said “It is of utmost importance that LSU Maj. Gen. William G. Bowdon, be able to graduate the next generation president and CEO of the LSU of entrepreneurs to allow the great state Foundation. of Louisiana to move forward,” Jerry (L-to-R): Jerry and Beverly Shea receive an LSU Foundation The Sheas are members of the LSU said. “This complex will aid in keeping Laureate Society plaque from Maj. Gen. William G. Foundation Laureate Society. the best and brightest of Louisiana at Bowdon, president and CEO of the LSU Foundation.

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Engineering Outreach Gets a Lift from BP Solar Buggy Donation Above: (L-to-R) Bob Fryar, CEO of BP’s Angola business unit; Michael Martin, LSU chancellor; Richard Koubek, dean of the College of Engineering; Astrid Merget, former executive vice chancellor and provost

P America gave $75,000 to the Forever LSU Campaign to benefit the College of Engineering. Included in BP’s donation is a new BP Solar-Powered Buggy to be used for K-12 outreach programs and with LSU Mechanical and Electrical Engineering students. “BP’s philanthropy has made an immediate impact by providing state-of-the-art resources for student success at LSU,” stated Richard Koubek, dean of the College of Engineering. Presenting the BP Buggy and an additional $65,000 to be used for enhanced global awareness initiatives for LSU engineering students were BP employees Bob Fryar, CEO of the Angola business unit and Petroleum Engineering alumnus; Luis Aguillar, operations engineer and Chemical Engineering alumnus; Keith Seilhan, operations director for the Gulf of Mexico and Mechanical Engineering alumnus; and Karl Connor, government affairs director for Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Koubek noted, “These LSU engineering alumni from BP showcase the strength and dedication of our alumni to give back to the college and advance our program.” These students are the backbone of our industry and will be developing and applying the technologies of tomorrow that will enable us to continue our successful track record of providing energy to America,” said Fryar. The solar-powered, all-electric buggy is a modified Bad Boy standard all-terrain vehicle. This unique buggy uses solar panels mounted on the roof to charge the power cells. It represents a sustainable form of energy and mobility and has a 30 horsepower motor, providing more than 170 foot-pounds of torque. The vehicle has room for four passengers, with a load capacity of 880 pounds, and can pull a small trailer loaded with 1,500 pounds. Only for off-road usage, it has a maximum speed of 22 miles per hour.

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Professorship Honors Engineering Alumnus Mike Dooley

igma Consulting Group, Inc., established the Mike Dooley, P.E., Professorship in Civil and Environmental Engineering through a pledge to the Forever LSU Campaign. The $60,000 professorship will qualify for an eventual state match of $40,000. This gift will be used to support professors and promote both undergraduate and graduate studies in CEE, an essential component to help find effective solutions for problems currently faced in the state of Louisiana. Sigma President Miles Williams said, “The folks at Sigma are thrilled to be able to honor our founder, Mike Dooley, by establishing this endowed professorship. One of the many things that Mike has passed along to our staff is a sense of commitment to our community, and especially to the young people that are about to enter our profession.” Dooley, a 1974 LSU alumnus who also earned an MBA from Arizona State in 1981, has an extensive connection with LSU. His years as a student-athlete culminated in him being named an All-SEC Diver and captain of the swimming team in 1973. Dooley has remained committed to his alma mater, specifically to the CEE Department. He served as an adjunct instructor for several years and was instrumental in establishing and chairing the CEE Program Advisory Committee, which facilitates interaction between the faculty and practicing engineers. Dooley began his engineering career at the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development as a bridge design engineer and then a field project engineer. He worked for several consultants before establishing Sigma in 1987.

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CORNERSTONE • SUMMER 2010

(L-to-R): Don Eisenberg, associate director of development for the College of Engineering, and Dr. Warren Waggenspack, associate dean for academic programs in the College of Engineering, with Sigma Consulting Group, Inc., employees Mike Dooley, director; Miles Williams, president; Steven Brasuell, director; and Greg Sepeda, vice president and chief engineer

Alumnus Returns Home as Successful Entrepreneur

Kappa Delta Supports Forever LSU with Wayfinding Project

appa Delta’s Epsilon chapter is celebrating its 100th anniversary at LSU by pledging $100,000 to create a gateway sign at the intersection of Dalrymple and Lakeshore Drives. Since summer 2009, chapter members and alumnae have generously given $60,000 toward that goal. “The Kappa Delta chapter members told us they wanted to do something that would have a lasting and permanent value on campus, as they feel Kappa Delta has had over the course of its first century,” said Kathy Marcel, member of Kappa Delta’s Endowment Committee for its anniversary celebration. “They hope that other student organizations will join the effort to help our university reach its campaign goal and move forward as one of the top institutions from not only an academic standpoint, but a student life standpoint.” The gateway sign will be a key part of LSU’s Wayfinding Project, which aims to revolutionize how visitors receive information about where to go and what to see on campus. Central to that effort is finding a better means of simply letting people know where LSU’s property lines begin. Kappa Delta’s drive to attain support for this project represents one of the largest student initiatives benefiting the Forever LSU campaign. Of significant note is that this project demonstrates the impact a student organization can have on the future of LSU, even its physical appearance, by spearheading private philanthropy.

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Above: (L-to-R) From Kappa Delta’s Epsilon chapter, Samantha Navarra, vice president of public relations; Brooke Barnett, advisory board chair; Lauren Musso, 2009 Panhellenic delegate; and Carra Jane Williams, vice president of recruitment, with Dr. K.C. White, dean of students; Jason Soileau, assistant director of physical plant and facility services; and Jamie Segar, director of development for LSU’s Division of Student Life

r. Farrokh Shokooh, a successful entrepreneur and an Electrical & Computer Engineering alumnus, recently returned to LSU to host a seminar and reception for students, faculty, alumni and industry representatives. Now president and CEO of Operation Technology, Inc., in Irvine, Calif., Shokooh created the world’s industry-leading electric power system analysis and design software—known simply as ETAP. OTI, the designer and developer of ETAP, was developed in 1986 to commercialize the ETAP product, software that found its origins in LSU’s electrical engineering power labs. The Electrical Transient Analyzer Program is the industry leader used worldwide in all types and sizes of power systems. Currently, 94 percent of U.S. nuclear energy companies use ETAP in their installations. Dr. Farrokh Shokooh “I found that what I developed as a graduate student at LSU was better than any software in the world,” Shokooh shared. At age 17, Shokooh moved from Tehran to Baton Rouge, where he subsequently earned bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in Electrical Engineering at LSU. Originally majoring in Basic Sciences and Mechanical Engineering, Shokooh found his niche in Electrical Engineering. Following graduation, Shokooh spent a year teaching at LSU as an assistant professor before leaving to begin his career in the power industry. During his recent visit to campus, Shokooh graciously donated 20 licenses of ETAP software to LSU. “I owe this product to the education I received at LSU. This gift is a homecoming of ETAP, and this visit is my homecoming as well,” announced Shokooh. The donation will provide essential learning tools for students interested in a career in power engineering.

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ozens of volunteers from across campus rolled up their sleeves April 30 to help beautify LSU’s grounds on the University’s first annual Spring Greening Day. The day marked the first major campus project undertaken by the LSU Foundation’s Campus Beautification Fund, supported by a generous contribution from Raising Cane’s. The Campus Beautification Fund supplied materials to volunteers on 30 campus sites. Volunteers planted flowers, ground cover and ornamental shrubs; laid sod; and spread mulch. Included among the site projects were permanent improvements to ornamental plantings, like azaleas and camellias, and ground cover, like jasmine and ivy, to minimize seasonal planting. “We are excited about the students joining our staff as we all work together to enhance the incredible natural beauty of our campus during this special sesquicentennial celebration. What a perfect year to kick off this event!” said Fred Fellner, assistant director of Landscape Services. Spring Greening Day allowed LSU’s Landscape Services to get summer plantings in place in a single day, as opposed to several weeks. “By pulling students outside their niches and into the open air to plant flowers for the LSU community, we can establish roots in organizations that would otherwise have no ties with green initiatives,” said Elizabeth Hingle, member of the Spring Greening Day Student Advisory Committee. “Spring Greening Day events also help students open their eyes to a brighter future for LSU’s campus

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and the Baton Rouge community through sustainability in a fun and interactive way.” The Albermarle Foundation, LSU Student Government and the Student Activities Board funded additional activities held in conjunction with Spring Greening Day. Top: A volunteer plants ground cover. “In my opinion, an event like Spring Middle: The LSU swim team pitches in to create landscaping beds in front of Lockett Hall. Greening Day gives the average student a sense Bottom: Raising Cane’s is one of the partners of ownership over their that made Spring Greening 2010 possible. campus,” said Cas Smith, member of the Spring Greening Day Student Advisory Committee Member and director of sustainability for LSU Student Government. “Additionally, the event’s sustainable message is a great opportunity to advocate for ways an individual can protect their planet.” Part of the funding for campus beautification comes from proceeds associated with the sale of the official LSU ornament, available at www.lsuornament.com. All proceeds from the ornament benefit the LSU Foundation’s Campus Beautification Fund.

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LSU Wildlife Hospital Provides Care for Animals Injured in Oil Spill Zones

he LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana was invited by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries to provide veterinary medical care for non-oiled injured animals from areas affected by the oil spill. As part of its mission—and in an effort to allow the organizations in charge of caring for oiled wildlife to expend their resources effectively—the WHL can provide veterinary care to injured wildlife. The WHL received the first non-oiled injured bird, a yellow-crowned night heron, on May 1. The heron was found by Tri-State Bird Rescue and transferred to the WHL by the Louisiana State Animal Response Team. LSU has since also treated brown pelicans, white pelicans and cormorants. The number of injured wildlife not affected by oil will likely increase as more people begin to work in what normally would be a low-populated area. This will lead to the identification of injured animals that otherwise may not have been identified by the general public. The Wildlife Hospital cares for wildlife at no charge to the individual or agency bringing in the animal. The hospital relies on monetary gifts to cover the cost of veterinary care for these animals, which are treated for disease and/or injury and then rehabilitated before being released back into the wild.

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Dr. Javier Nevarez, director of the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, examines a yellowcrowned night heron that was brought to LSU May 1.

Louisiana Business Emergency Operations Center Opens at LSU L

SU teamed up with several public, private and academic partners in Louisiana to create a business-oriented emergency operations center for the state. The Louisiana Business Emergency Operations Center will work to enhance the state’s emergency management efforts by supporting the continuity of business and industry during and after a crisis or emergency. The LA BEOC, located at LSU’s South Campus on GSRI Avenue in Baton Rouge, officially opened June 2 with a press conference and ribbon-cutting ceremony. The facility is a partnership among the LSU Stephenson Disaster Management Institute, Louisiana Economic Development, the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s National Incident Management Systems and Advanced Technologies Institute. The mission of the LA BEOC is to support disaster management in Louisiana by developing an accurate understanding of economic impacts to critical infrastructures and major economic drivers, as well as coordinating businesses and volunteer organizations with the public sector. Through the LA BEOC, the state will work to improve disaster preparedness and response; reduce reliance on FEMA and other federal assistance; maximize business, industry and economic stabilization; and return the business environment to normal operations quickly. “The LA BEOC will provide real support to Louisiana’s business community by providing a direct line of communication for critical industry associations to state government agencies so that resources can be committed to help them get businesses back up and running as quickly as possible. The center’s value has already been realized through its involvement with the Gulf of Mexico oil spill response efforts,” LSU Chancellor Michael Martin said. The LA BEOC was funded by the partnering agencies, as well as other corporate partners. In addition, Entergy Louisiana, LLC, and Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, LLC, presented the Forever LSU Campaign with a $250,000 gift for the LSU Stephenson Disaster

CORNERSTONE • SUMMER 2010

Management Institute. The LSU Stephenson Disaster Management Institute will use the donation to complete the final phase of the LA BEOC, which includes a full suite of operations offices, technology, furniture, communications and filing systems, two executive conference rooms with video conference capabilities and a break room. “Entergy’s donation of $250,000 is an investment in preparation and collaboration as we respond together to the needs of citizens during times of disaster,” said Renae Conley, president and chief executive officer of Entergy Louisiana, LLC and Entergy Gulf States Louisiana, LLC. “It will help all of us work together to implement smart, collaborative emergency management when it is needed most.” In connection with the LA BEOC, Louisiana will be the first state in the nation to release a public version of Google Earth, and citizens of Louisiana will now have access to Louisiana Earth. During a disaster, the LA BEOC will provide critical information to Louisiana Earth, which will be maintained by GOHSEP. This is the first time this technology will be used in such a unique way for the public. The LA BEOC will be both a physical and virtual structure that will house up to 40 key representatives from the business community, volunteer organizations and state government. When activated, the LA BEOC and its representatives will make disaster recovery recommendations to LED, GOHSEP and the Unified Command Group. Louisiana businesses are encouraged to register at www.LABEOC.org to provide information about the products and services they can provide to support the state’s disaster response plan. The website also provides a secure way to donate money, goods and services during times of disaster, and will provide information about the economic impact of disasters on the state.

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Above: Officials from state government and LSU cut the ribbon on the LA BEOC.

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Forever LSU Student Video Contest Places Campaign Message in Creative Hands

rmed with video cameras of all shapes and sizesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and ideas to matchâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;LSU students last fall took on the challenge of creating promotional videos for the Forever LSU campaign. After months of shooting, editing and refining, a winner was chosen for the Forever LSU student video competition. Elizabeth Scott and Leah Stevenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;LSU isâ&#x20AC;Ś Foreverâ&#x20AC;? video, available at www.foreverlsu.org/students, was selected by vote of the student body in February. Students were asked to create and submit videos that best summarize the Forever LSU campaign spirit and how fellow students can contribute to the future of LSU. In November, a panel of students and judges whittled down a wide field of two- and three-minute videos to three finalists. Each finalist then received mentoring from EmmyÂŽ Award-winning producer, director and LSU alumnus Robert Zimmerman. Zimmerman helped the finalists reshoot and edit their videos on professionalgrade equipment and refine their ideas into final form. For their outstanding efforts, all three finalists received 32-gig iPod Touches. The grand prize winner of the competition received a 13-inch 2.53GHz Macbook Pro and a one-year Central â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bâ&#x20AC;? Parking pass and Easy Streets wand. Scott and Stevenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s video is being used in conjunction with Forever LSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s marketing and public relations efforts, giving these young filmmakers an opportunity to have their work seen by thousands of tiger worldwide.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the best investment I have ever made. I only wish I had chosen a larger amount.â&#x20AC;?

DR. MARY LOU APPLEWHITE Chair, College of Science / Forever LSU Campaign Cabinet A charitable gift annuity through the LSU Foundation will allow you to both Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x192;Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2021; Â&#x192; Â&#x17D;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2030;Â&#x192;Â&#x2026;Â&#x203A; Â&#x192;Â&#x2013; Â&#x192;Â?Â&#x2020; Â&#x192;Â&#x17D;Â&#x2022;Â&#x2018; Â&#x2021;Â?Â&#x152;Â&#x2018;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2013;Â&#x160;Â&#x2021; Â&#x2022;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2026;Â&#x2014;Â&#x201D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2013;Â&#x203A; Â&#x2018;Â&#x2C6; Ď?Â&#x2039;Â&#x161;Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2039;Â?Â&#x2026;Â&#x2018;Â?Â&#x2021; Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; Â&#x17D;Â&#x2039;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2021;ÇĄ Â&#x2018;Â&#x201D; a two-life annuity for you and your spouse (or other designee). 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Sample Age 60 70 80 90+

Yearly Rate 5.2 5.8 7.2 9.5

Gwen Fairchild Director of Planned Giving Ĺ?Ä¨Ä&#x201A;Ĺ?Ć&#x152;Ä?Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?ĹŻÄ&#x161;Î&#x203A;ĹŻĆ?ĆľÄ¨Ĺ˝ĆľĹśÄ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;Ĺ˝ĹśÍ&#x2DC;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ĺ? 225-615-8914 or 1-800-452-7928

Jane Henslee Associate Director of Planned Giving ĹŠĹ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ?ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x17E;Î&#x203A;ĹŻĆ?ĆľÄ¨Ĺ˝ĆľĹśÄ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;Ĺ˝ĹśÍ&#x2DC;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ĺ? 225-615-8914 or 1-800-452-7928

/ĹśÄ¨Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ć&#x;Ĺ˝Ĺś Ĺ?Ĺś Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ?Ć? Ć&#x2030;Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ä&#x17E; Ĺ?Ć? ĹśĹ˝Ć&#x161; Ĺ?ĹśĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹśÄ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x161; Ä&#x201A;Ć? ĹŻÄ&#x17E;Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; ÄŽĹśÄ&#x201A;ĹśÄ?Ĺ?Ä&#x201A;ĹŻ Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ç&#x20AC;Ĺ?Ä?Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2DC; zĹ˝ĆľĆ&#x152; Ć&#x2030;Ć&#x152;Ĺ˝Ä¨Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć?Ĺ?Ĺ˝ĹśÄ&#x201A;ĹŻ Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ç&#x20AC;Ĺ?Ć?Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; Ä?Ä&#x201A;Ĺś Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;ĹŻĆ&#x2030; Ç&#x2021;Ĺ˝Ćľ Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;ĹľĹ?ĹśÄ&#x17E; Ç Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; Ĺ?Ć? Ä?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Ć&#x161; Ä¨Ĺ˝Ć&#x152; Ç&#x2021;Ĺ˝ĆľĆ&#x152; Ä?Ĺ?Ć&#x152;Ä?ĆľĹľĆ?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹśÄ?Ä&#x17E;Ć?Í&#x2DC;

LSU

FOUNDATION

Meet Gloria Peters...

LSU Foundation Employee of the First Quarter, 2010

loria has worked on campus for 29 years, 14 years with the LSU Foundation and 15 years with the Alumni Association. She is an Accounting Tech in the LSU Foundation’s gift processing department, where she is responsible for updating and processing payroll and Smart Call pledges and posting thousands of gifts to the donor’s record on the Tails database. If Gloria could be anyone on LSU’s campus for a day, she “would want to be Les Miles on the day he plays against Nick Saban.” Most of Gloria’s co-workers don’t know that Gloria had the privilege of seeing several former U.S. presidents when they attended the dedication of the Lod Cook building. A brick with Gloria’s name was placed at the entrance of the Lod Cook building. She feels very fortunate to have spent her entire career at LSU and has developed many close friendships with her co-workers. “It is truly a blessing and a joy to be a part of this university,” Gloria said.

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Meet Josh Dicharry... LSU Foundation Employee of the Third Quarter, 2009

osh joined the LSU Foundation in June 2006 after earning a bachelor’s degree in Business, concentrating on entrepreneurship, that May. While working at the LSU Foundation, Josh completed his MBA, with a focus on finance, in May 2009. Josh is the assistant director of the LSU Funds office, where he operates the LSU Foundation’s alumni call center, TigerTalk, and helps coordinate annual fundraising efforts across campus. Josh played football at LSU from 2002 to 2006. His favorite memories include his first time running out of the tunnel on a Saturday night in Death Valley, his first walk down Victory Hill, watching the final seconds tick off the clock in the game against Oklahoma in 2004, meeting the president at the White House, and the smell of the grass in an empty Tiger Stadium during summer conditioning drills. If Josh could be anyone on campus for one day, he would be his favorite professor, Dr. Tommy Karam. “He introduced me to a whole new way to view sports, marketing and branding,” Josh said.

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Jacob Fontenot... LSU Foundation Employee of the Fourth Quarter, 2009

CORNERSTONE • SUMMER 2010

acob Fontenot, assistant director of research, is responsible for the research and maintenance of the alumni database. He joined the LSU Foundation in May 2007, before which he worked at LSU’s Middleton Library. In his free time, Jacob enjoys watching movies, playing computer strategy games, and reading about current events, history and popular science. Jacob likes walking around campus and playing basketball. As an alumnus of LSU, Jacob has great memories of classes with his favorite professors, and of “nights at the dorm talking politics and life with guys from the U.K. and the former Soviet Republics.” Asked whom he would be if he could be anyone at LSU for one day, Jacob answered, “Instead of filling someone’s shoes, I’d like to shadow President Lombardi for a day. I would like to see what’s involved in steering the entire LSU system through these complicated times.”

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LSU FOUNDATION

Staff News Jennifer Broadwell is a research associate for the LSU Foundation. She is an LSU alumna with a B.A. in Business Administration and Marketing.

Sarah Burdeaux is the LSU Foundation’s receptionist and administrative assistant. She is a graduate of Louisiana Tech and previously worked at Southeastern Louisiana University.

Jeff Crow is the associate director of development for Construction Management & Industrial Engineering and Biological & Agricultural Engineering in the College of Engineering. He is an LSU alumnus with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. He previously worked at Allegis Group/TEK Systems, Inc.

Sara Exner Crow is the LSU Foundation’s director of

Board of Directors OFFICERS Charles A. Landry (Baton Rouge, La.) Chairman of the Board Laura L. Dauzat (Marksville, La.) Chair-elect of the Board Maj. Gen. William G. “Bill” Bowdon (Baton Rouge, La.) President and Chief Executive Officer Jeffery McLain (Baton Rouge, La.) Vice President for Development Gina Dugas (Baton Rouge, La.) Chief Financial Officer William L. Silvia Jr. (Baton Rouge, La.) Corporate Secretary George Moss (Baton Rouge, La.) Chief Investment Officer

foundation communications. She is an LSU alumna with an M.S. in Human Resource Education & Workforce Development and a B.A. in Mass Communication. She previously worked at LSU Career Services.

Chandler Debetaz Dupont was promoted from research associate to associate director of development for the School of the Coast and Environment. Chandler is an LSU alumna with a B.A. in Mass Communication.

John McGehee is the associate director of development for Petroleum and Chemical Engineering in the College of Engineering. He is an LSU alumnus with a B.S. in General Studies. He previously worked at McKernan Law Firm and has experience in business development, administration and the pharmaceutical field.

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f you guessed the newly renovated Cazalot-Marathon Oil Corporation atrium, you are right! The Allosaurus skeleton is a popular feature for visitors to the Howe-Russell Geoscience Complex. Look for a new “Where Am I?” challenge our next issue!

DIRECTORS Mark K. Anderson ..............................(Monroe, La.) Jeff H. Benhard .................................(Palmetto, La.) J. Herbert Boydstun ....................(Baton Rouge, La.) J. Terrell Brown ...........................(Baton Rouge, La.) Robert H. Crosby III ......................(Mandeville, La.) Robert Daigle ....................................(Lafayette, La.) William T. Firesheets II ...............(Baton Rouge, La.) T. Cass Gaiennie ............................(Shreveport, La.) G. Lee Griffin ..............................(Baton Rouge, La.) Frank W. “Billy” Harrison III ........(Houston, Texas) Gene W. Lafitte...........................(New Orleans, La.) Gary L. Laborde ..........................(New Orleans, La.) Laura A. Leach ............................(Lake Charles, La.) David B. Means III...........................(Mansfield, La.) William B. Owens..........................(Alexandria, La.) James R. Peltier ..............................(Thibodaux, La.) John F. Shackelford III ..........................(Bonita, La.) Robert M. Stuart Jr. .....................(Baton Rouge, La.) Sue Turner...................................(Baton Rouge, La.) Burton D. Weaver....................................(Flora, La.) Felix Weill ...................................(Baton Rouge, La.) William H. Wright Jr. ...............(St. Francisville, La.) J. Lanier Yeates ..............................(Houston, Texas)

EX-OFFICIO John Lombardi .....................President, LSU System Michael V. Martin.................Chancellor, LSU A&M William B. Richardson..Chancellor, LSU Ag Center Jack Weiss...............Chancellor, Hebert Law Center

A Publication Devoted to the Benefactors of the LSU Foundation

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Baton Rouge, LA Permit No. 9

LSU Foundation 3838 West Lakeshore Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70808

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

The observatory atop Nicholson Hall opened in 1939. The Department of Physics & Astronomy held a public grand reopening in November 2005, at the time of Marsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; closest approach. After almost two decades of inactivity, the Clark telescope showed beautiful views of the sky to students and Baton Rouge residents. At this time, the observatory was named the Landolt Astronomical Observatory, in honor of Professor Arlo U. Landoltâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long-standing contributions to astronomy at LSU, in the U.S. and worldwide.