93 students graduate as LSU Distinguished Communicators in Spring 2025

During May 2025 Commencement, 93 graduates across 10 colleges and 43 majors will receive the LSU Distinguished Communicator Medal. These 93 graduates represent the largest class of Distinguished Communicators in CxC’s 20-year tenure, and is also the first cohort that includes a medalist in every undergraduate college. As of the May 2025 ceremony LSU has now graduated more than 1,000 LSU Distinguished Communicators.

To celebrate the accomplishments of these exceptional students, CxC will host a medal ceremony honoring Distinguished Communicators, as well as celebrating them on social media and at cxc.lsu.edu. Visit this page again as we get closer to commencement to learn more about each of these 93 students.

Are you interested in supporting future LSU Distinguished Communicators with a donation? Want to make a gift in honor of a Distinguished Communicator? Visit givelsu.org and search for the CxC Development Fund.

College of Agriculture
College of Art & Design
E.J. Ourso College of Business
College of Coast & Environment
College of Engineering
College of Human Sciences & Education
College of Humanities & Social Sciences
Manship School of Mass Communication
College of Music & Dramatic Arts
College of Science

College of Agriculture

Aalyha Beteta, Nutrition & Food Sciences (Nutrition, Health & Society)
Hometown: Metairie, La.
Faculty Advisor: Naomi Bennett

As a first-generation college graduate and the child of immigrants, Aalyah says her education isn’t just a personal achievement, but honors the hard work and hopes of all her relatives who have come before her: “It’s a reflection of my family’s sacrifices, resilience, and dreams.” Aalyah carries this into her own service to her community, volunteering among other places at the food pantry and eventually earning the Engaged Citizen Medal during her time at LSU. After graduation, she plans to pursue a Master’s in Public Health and eventually apply for medical school, as well as volunteer to provide service to underserved communities worldwide. She encourages her fellow candidates to engage with their community: “As long as you align yourself with good people, good things will follow!”

Ashton Dalton, Animal-Dairy-Poultry Science and Religious Studies
Hometown: Carencro, La.
Faculty Advisor: Brad Storin

People might wonder how degrees in science and religious studies connect, but for Ashton Dalton, this disciplinary cross-section plays an important role in his personal and professional development. “I know with absolute certainty that my background in religious studies will help me connect with and better support future patients,” he shares. When not diving into either the afterlife or bovine research, Ashton spent time as a community volunteer, developing relationships with patients navigating everything from disabilities to grief. He’s fully embracing the title of Engaged Citizen, and earned the Happy Award for his commitment to service through his work with children in BREC’s Hearts and Hooves therapeutic program. After spending his college years working as a live-in veterinary technician, a volunteer with hospice organizations, and presenting at LSU Discover Day, he’s preparing to take on a job with the LSU Vet School working as an assistant in a virology lab.

Ashton's profile is also listed under the College of Humanities & Social Sciences.

Madeleine Gess, Natural Resource Ecology & Management (Wildlife Ecology)*
Minor: Biological Sciences
Hometown: Little Rock, Ark.
Faculty Advisor: Mike Kaller

Madeleine Gess is graduating from LSU not only as a Distinguished Communicator, but Summa Cum Laude, with College Honors, and as a Distinguished Undergraduate Researcher. During her very busy college career, she was an SI Leader, did ecological fieldwork in Louisiana, Mexico, and South Africa, and even interned as an undergraduate research assistant on a duckling recruitment and whistling duck migration study through the School of Renewable Natural Resources.With a long-term goal of studying wildlife ecology and making her scientific findings accessible to the public, she plans to take time to travel, engage in more field research, and then take those experiences to graduate school.

Carly Greig, Nutrition & Food Sciences (Pre-Medicine)*
Hometown: Plano, Texas
Faculty Advisor: Erin McKinley

If you need a hole in your wall, Carly Greig says she’s your go-to person, stating, “Having spent nearly a year at my surgery center job, I can confidently say I'm a pro at maneuvering hospital beds into walls.” When not navigating unwieldy furniture, Carly spent time gaining nutrition studies experience at Pennington Biomedical Research Center Metabolic Kitchen and volunteering with Companion Animal Alliance (where she adopted one of her cats). Of all her achievements, she’s most proud of the work she put in to defend her Honors Thesis focusing on the hormonal impacts of birth control. She encourages all her fellow graduates to step outside of their comfort zones, advice she personally tapped into to overcome her fear of public speaking. Post-graduation, she plans on moving in with her mom in Metairie and applying to medical school.

Allison Huddleston, Environmental Management Systems*
Minor: Philosophy
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Faculty Advisor: Maud Walsh

Allison Huddleston is proud of her varied research experiences, ranging from working in a standard lab to driving tractors, constructing beehives, and even laying an irrigation system. During her time at LSU, she interned at North Carolina State University researching native bees in blackberry agricultural systems, defended her Honors Thesis, and this past spring, received an honorable mention in the National Science Foundation - Graduate Research Fellowship Program. She even won “outstanding presentation” at the Rice University Gulf Coast Undergraduate Research Symposium—something she would not have thought possible at the beginning of her college career. Her advice for fellow graduates is to be authentic: “The world is a better place when we use our voices to advocate for the ideas we care the most about.” This fall, she will begin her Ph.D. in Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Massachusetts, where she’ll be focusing on pollinator-plant interactions.

Riley Lawson, Textiles, Apparel & Merchandising and Mass Communication (Digital Advertising)
Minor: Business Administration
Hometown: Prairieville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Jun Heo

Riley Lawson's journey at LSU reflects a harmonious blend of creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit. As President of the Fashion Association, she spearheaded a year-long partnership with Poshmark, expanding the organization's reach and influence. Her internship at SILIBI Luxury Vintage Showroom allowed her to hone skills in styling, graphic design, and social media management—culminating in a successful collaborative event, Swamp Swaps, which attracted over 100 attendees. Beyond her professional endeavors, Riley's passion for choreography and her role as a dance teacher underscore her commitment to artistic expression. Post-graduation, she aims to grow her secondhand clothing business, MyBFsCloset, in Honolulu, Hawaii, while immersing herself in the local fashion scene.

Riley's profile is also listed under the Manship School of Mass Communication.

Marcela Ruiz, Nutrition & Food Sciences
Hometown: San Pedro Sula, Honduras
Faculty Advisor: Judy Myhand

As the youngest of four and the last to graduate, Marcela Ruiz attributes her successful college career to her parents’ hard work and sacrifice. She cites her upbringing in Honduras for sparking a passion for the food industry, stating that, “even today, I can spend hours in the grocery store, exploring new products that spark my interest.” That enthusiasm has carried over into her studies and her internships ranging from developing social media campaigns for brands through Nativet Honduras to exploring food industry regulation and quality assurance for pet foods. While often calm and easygoing, she faced personal challenges, particularly with academic pressures, yet consistently excelled, earning spots on the Dean's List and President's Roll. Post-graduation, Marcela will return to Honduras to contribute to her family's business, eager to apply her enhanced communication abilities in a professional setting.

College of Art & Design

Amber Ashton, Art & Design and Industrial Engineering
Hometown: Hammond, La.
Faculty Advisor: Isa Nahmens

As an engineering and art student, Amber Ashton has developed a variety of hands-on skills from lathing, milling, and welding to sculpture and stop-motion animation. Falling in love with industrial engineering, Amber's made many improvements as a student employee at the LSU Advanced Manufacturing and Machining Facility and helped streamline operations as an intern at the Community Coffee Manufacturing Plant in Port Allen. While watching robots do the work is fun, sometimes you have to do the heavy lifting yourself. As a member of the LSU powerlifting team, Amber placed fifth nationally in her weight class in 2023. After graduation, Amber is excited to start a full-time position in ABB’s 2025 Discovery Program: ELDS Manufacturing Ops & Supply Chain Track that will take them out of the state for an extended period for the first time.

Amber's profile is also listed under the College of Engineering.

Amanda Carambat, Architecture*
Minor: Architectural History
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Fabio Capra-Ribeiro

While at LSU, Amanda Carambat has received many awards, including first place at Discover Day when she was still a sophomore and the 2025 Scavo Award for her essay on design for mental health and well-being. She served as president of the American Institute of Architecture Students at LSU and also holds a seat on the American Institute of Architecture board for Baton Rouge. According to her faculty advisor, "Amanda is the most boring student I have ever met. Always doing everything to perfection." Sure, Amanda may be predictable in her perfectionism, but that doesn't mean everything she does is boring. After all, she was the piccolo player in Tigerband! After graduation, Amanda is heading to Dallas, Texas to pursue architectural licensure with a specialty in sustainable, wellness-focused design for K-12 schools.

Caitlin Church, Art & Design (Art History) and Theatre
Hometown: Lake Arrowhead, Calif.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Erickson

Caitlin loves to perform. She appeared in two films for the LSU Take Film Festival, collaborated on a piece for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and devised her own showcase of classical monologues. Her performance and communication skills have also been useful in her work as a Bengal Bound Orientation team leader and a Music & Dramatic Arts ambassador, as well as her time serving as chair of the Zeta Tau Alpha Judicial Committee. She's passionate about all things artistic, from playing almost every string instrument to acting as a "human printer" through drawing and painting—"I can replicate life by just looking at something," she says. Her advice to future students is “pressure breaks pipes, but it also creates diamonds. You are always learning!” After graduation, Caitlin will be returning to LSU for graduate school.

Caitlin's profile is also listed under the College of Music & Dramatic Arts.

Ella Csaki, Architecture
Minor: Architectural History
Hometown: Slidell, La.
Faculty Advisor: William Hunter

Ella Csaki’s journey from hand-drawn sketches to architectural design is marked by creativity and cultural exploration. A semester in Paris deepened her architectural perspective, expanding her skills in hand-drawing and graphic design. Her travels also led her to witness the northern lights in Tromsø, Norway, and reconnect with her Hungarian heritage in Budapest. Beyond architecture, Ella is a certified election commissioner in St. Tammany Parish, contributing to local civic engagement. A Distinguished Communicator, she values effective communication in both professional and personal realms. After graduation, Ella will join Duplantis Design Group in Baton Rouge as an Assistant Project Manager.

Destiny Graves, Architecture
Minor: Architecture History
Hometown: Geismar, La.
Faculty Advisor: Kristen Mauch

Destiny Graves is a gifted designer with a passion for community-building. Her commitment to community-driven architecture comes out of her experience growing up in Geismar, an industrial hub in Louisiana's Cancer Alley. Striving to increase representation in the profession, she served as president of the LSU chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students. In that role, she attended national conferences, organized workshops with industry professionals, and promoted collaboration across all design disciplines. She is thankful to the amazing mentors who encouraged her to pursue architecture and wants to spend her life inspiring others in a similar fashion.

Aya Hijazi, Architecture
Minor: French
Hometown: Lake Charles, La.
Faculty Advisor: Sergio Padilla

Aya Hijazi majored in architecture and minored in French, so it's appropriate that she spent a semester in Paris, where she got to encounter "architectural masterpieces firsthand" and as well as work on her French. Back on LSU’s campus, she served as vice president of the LSU chapter of American Institute of Architecture Students and participated in several design competitions, with her team winning third place nationally in the National Association of Home Builders competition in 2024. She's proud of her efforts to bridge the gap between students and industry professionals, and we are excited for her as she gets ready to step across that gap herself in a full-time position at DDG as she works toward her licensure.

Veronica Hillman-Vincent, Interior Design
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Marsha Cuddeback

If you ever need a perfect SpongeBob quote for the moment—or a brilliant interior design concept—Veronica Hillman-Vincent is your person. A leader shaped by both theater and design studios, Veronica developed her voice through projects like The Turquoise Canvas and a thesis that blends sustainability with storytelling. Her internship at Alberstadt Lambert Design deepened her technical skills, while a surprise meeting with her scholarship donors reminded her that meaningful work leaves lasting impressions. Veronica graduates with tenacity, authenticity, and printed copies of her own thesis in hand, ready for her upcoming design expos and eventually her full-time career.

Bryce Leonhard, Architecture
Minor: Architectural History
Hometown: New Orleans, La.
Faculty Advisor: Kris Palagi

Bryce Leonhard, or “Brick” to friends, is an architect and communicator known for solving problems from scratch and for turning connection into community. As a founding member of LSU’s Arcesius Chapter of Alpha Rho Chi, Bryce helped build something lasting, mentoring peers and earning the inaugural Brother of the Year Award. Bryce also received the OJ Baker Award of Design Excellence for faculty-selected work that exemplified strong design and communication. After graduation, Bryce will take those skills to Chicago to begin a career in residential design.

Olivia Messina, Interior Design
Hometown: New Orleans, La.
Faculty Advisor: Gary Gilbert

Olivia Messina is a designer who leads with empathy—on campus, abroad, and in every space she helps shape. At LSU, she dedicated four years to serving others through the food pantry and working with people with visual impairments. A proud former Girl Scout, Olivia brings that same spirit of service into her design work, where health, safety, and well-being are always central. While studying in Florence, she embraced full cultural immersion, expanding both her worldview and design perspective. Whether she’s sketching, making jewelry, or planning thoughtful interiors, Olivia’s work reflects a commitment to care, curiosity, and human-centered design. After graduation, Olivia plans to pursue employment back home in New Orleans.

Sydney Milligan, Landscape Architecture*
Minor: Art History
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Yao Wang

Whether she’s drafting site plans, leading national student conversations, or crafting spontaneous DIY solutions, Sydney Milligan is a landscape architect who blends thoughtful design with people-centered leadership. As an Olmsted Scholar and LSU’s representative on the ASLA Board of Trustees, Sydney’s impact spans local and national scales. Her time as a Resident Assistant shaped her belief that great communication starts with listening, while her internship at Stimson Studio in Cambridge sharpened her skills in translating big design ideas into approachable, client-ready visuals. After graduation, she’ll work toward licensure in Baton Rouge, but not before spending time on a sustainable farm in the Netherlands.

Angelina (Angel) Nguyen, Architecture*
Minor: Architectural History
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Fabio Capra-Ribeiro

Angel Nguyen is an architecture graduate whose creativity spans from award-winning design portfolios to full-scale bus stop construction. Known for her upbeat personality—and surprising love of heavy metal—Angel blends precision with passion in everything she does. Her work earned a spot among the Top 25 undergraduate architecture portfolios in the U.S. and Canada by Metropolis magazine. She also received the Dean’s Medal, Architecture Research Center Consortium King Student Medal, and led the design and painting of a mural in LSU’s Atkinson Hall. Angel’s creative projects reflect her precision and passion for design. After graduation, she plans to travel and pursue architecture opportunities in Boston or Chicago.

Madelyn Pinero, Architecture
Minors: Architectural History, Construction Management
Hometown: Thibodaux, La.
Faculty Advisor: Sergio Padilla

Madelyn Pinero’s passion for design is matched only by her love for adventure. A two-year intern at a local architecture firm, she has gained hands-on experience that has bolstered her confidence in the classroom. Her dedication was recognized with the "Destined for Greatness" Scholarship from Delta Sigma Theta Sorority as well as Outstanding Design for her fourth-year studio. Beyond her studies, she enjoys playing tennis with the LSU Club team, reading, traveling, biking, and swimming. Her leadership roles in her sorority have taught her the importance of empathy and effective communication. After graduation, she plans to continue her career in Louisiana (for now), aiming to obtain her architecture license and possibly relocate to Washington, D.C. in the future.

Amanda Richter, Architecture*
Minor: Horticulture
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Kristen Mauch

Amanda Richter loves Baton Rouge and is deeply invested in improving the city. Her background in architecture, historical preservation, horticulture, and public relations have led her pursue jobs in community development. She's already made a contribution as an intern for the Downtown Development District, where she created graphics for events and wayfinding. In spite of her busy schedule, Amanda found the time to go to thirteen concerts this school year. After graduation, she will embark on a travel experience with the Worldwide Organization of Organic Farmers before finding a full-time position in community work.

Emma Royal, Interior Design
Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Faculty Advisor: Julie Elliott

As an interior designer, Emma Royal especially enjoys working on hotels and restaurants. She is very proud of earning a WELL accreditation, saying it "was more than just passing an exam—it reflected my commitment to creating healthier, more sustainable spaces." Emma spent a semester studying in Florence, Italy, where she got to add metalsmithing to the list of her creative endeavors. She is also gifted in music, having played the violin for thirteen years. Emma plans to find a full-time job in hospitality design after graduation.

Jerund (Jai) Sanders, Architecture*
Minor: Business Administration
Hometown: Madison, Mississippi
Faculty Advisor: Sergio Padilla

By his own admission, Jai Sanders loves working under pressure, so naturally he gravitated to the architecture profession. He is especially interested in mixed-use projects and got to hone his skills at internships in Kansas City and Chicago. A proud ambassador for his chosen profession, he's been active in several student and professional organizations, including the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students. Beyond academics, Jai enjoys video games, fitness, spending time with his fraternity brothers, and making things with his hands, whether it be cooking, carpentry, or ceramics. He believes that effective leadership stems from adaptability and meaningful dialogue, principles he continues to apply in his academic and professional endeavors.

Marvin Scott, Interior Design
Minors: Architectural History, Business Administration
Hometown: Bossier City, La.
Faculty Advisor: Julie Elliott

Marvin Scott has always known that design was his future, but he didn't suspect that during his time at LSU, he would also become an ambassador and a global traveler. Having been selected to represent the College of Art & Design as a member of the inaugural cohort of LSU Global Ambassadors, Marvin traveled to Ghana in 2024, and he got to go to China the same year as a Louisiana representative for Global Youth Conference. Marvin claims he can finish a book in as little as four hours if he truly enjoys it—a handy skill for all those long flights. Somewhat closer to home, Marvin embarked on an internship at Steelcase in Grand Rapids, MI, where he got to help design the company's showrooms. He is excited to continue his career at Steelcase after graduation and also plans to get an MBA.

Abby Selser, Landscape Architecture
Hometown: Walker, La.
Faculty Advisor: Haley Blakeman

Abby Selser loves to explore how individuals interact with the world around them and hopes to use her knowledge to create public spaces that all people can enjoy. She had a chance to hone her skills as an intern at BREC and the Gulf Coast Community Design Studio in Mississippi. Abby loves to travel and is grateful for the chance to visit both US coasts as well as France and Germany as a landscape architecture student. But when she’s home during Mardi Gras, you should know that she can eat an entire king cake all by herself. This summer, she will participate in an archaeological field school studying the enslaved people at James Madison’s Montpelier plantation, then head to Sardinia to be an au pair, and finally move to work in Ireland.

Houston Tullis, Landscape Architecture
Minors: Computer Science, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geography
Hometown: New Orleans, La.
Faculty Advisor: Haley Blakeman

College students juggle a lot, but Houston Tullis might have the average student beat. He was able to complete a landscape architecture degree and three tech-heavy minors while also working 20-to-40-hour jobs. He is especially interested in urban geography and development and had a chance to pursue those interests as an intern with Baton Rouge's Downtown Development District. Houston enjoys road trips and claims he can drive a very long time without sleep, so it's appropriate he's moving to Boston, where he will start a full-time position at the landscape architecture firm OBJ.

Jennifer White, Architecture
Minors: Architectural History, Construction Management
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Faculty Advisor: William Hunter

Jennifer White’s passion for sustainable architecture is equally matched with her talent for building communities within her chosen profession. When she embarked on what, by her own admission, was a very niche project of researching the use of hemp in earth blocks, she ended up connecting with "professors and professionals" from far and wide. As president of the LSU chapter of the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students, she was recognized for her impact on the architectural community, winning the NOMA 2024 Student Member of the Year. When she needs to unwind, Jennifer likes to be physically active or work on a creative project like crocheting or film photography. After graduation, Jennifer will continue working on integrating earth-based materials into architecture.

E.J. Ourso College of Business

Emily Demps, International Management*
Minor: Political Science, Louisiana Service and Leadership (LASAL) Research
Hometown: Atlanta, Ga.
Faculty Advisor: Granger Babcock

Emily cares a lot about food–specifically, how to reduce waste and reduce hunger. Her goal is to unite social and community impact with for-profit business. For her Honors College thesis, she researched the relationship between portion sizing and food waste, and she spent her favorite internship at the University Club through the Restaurant Management Leadership Development Program. As part of the LSU Food Recovery Network, Emily secured $7,000 in funding to help the organization repackage food for distribution to students, faculty, and staff in need around campus twice a week beginning in August 2025. Her passion for reducing food insecurity isn’t the only area she’s making an impact in—she recently earned a coveted spot in the Tiger Twelve due to her leadership and academic success. After graduation, she will takes a role with Amazon before heading to Boston University in August 2027 to pursue a Social Impact MBA.

College of Coast & Environment

Emma Miranda, Coastal Environmental Science*
Minor: Honors Research
Hometown: Hammond, La.
Faculty Advisor: Matthew Hiatt

Emma Miranda is proud to see all the time and energy spent on her undergraduate research paying off. She’s graduating from LSU with not only the Distinguished Communicator Medal, but with College Honors and the Distinguished Undergraduate Researcher Medal as well. Her expansive experiences include working on an NSF-funded research project in the Florida Keys with the LSU Seascape Ecology Lab, where she studied the larval behavior of Florida Stone Crabs. She attributes her success to developing her skills as an oral communicator and to being a collaborative member of various research projects as well as the Student Government. After graduation, she’s going to continue working at Osprey Initiative, a company focused on environmental solutions.

Dakota Sievers, Coastal Environmental Science*
Hometown: Chalmette, Louisiana
Faculty Advisor: Linda Hooper-Bui

For Dakota Sievers, earning the Distinguished Communicator Medal feels like proving she can be confident in spite of a lifetime of shyness. As a proud first-generation college student, she is also earning College Honors after successfully defending her thesis, and is a candidate for the LSU Distinguished Researcher designation. During her time in the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution’s Summer Student Fellowship, she faced numerous new experiences—from talking to top researchers in her field to going on science excursions she’d only dreamed of before. After graduation, she’ll be heading to Auburn University to earn a Master’s in Geology.

College of Engineering

Ana Alvarado, Industrial Engineering
Minor: E-Commerce Engineering
Hometown: Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Faculty Advisor: Roberto Champney

Ana’s hidden superpower is the ability to inspire implicit trust from people–and she can also move her ears independently of one another. Having been raised in Honduras, she is bilingual in English and Spanish, which was helpful during her internship in Argentina during Summer 2023. Ana analyzed shipping operations and developed a database to track more than 100 shipping operations for Compañía General de Combustibles (CGC), the sixth-largest natural gas producer in Argentina. She is especially proud of having served on the Society of Women Engineers executive board for three straight years. Her advisor says “Ana has done an outstanding job in college career thus far. She has truly shown what an exceptional college experience at LSU can be.” After graduation, Ana will take a break to visit family in Honduras before moving to Massachusetts for work.

Shelby Antill, Computer Science
Minor: Business Administration
Hometown: New Orleans, La.
Faculty Advisor: Andrew Webb

Shelby Antill’s creativity isn’t confined to a canvas—it extends into code. Outside of her software engineering internships at Chevron, where she developed scalable applications and cultivated client relationships, she expresses her creativity through watercolor and collage. As a Student Software Developer at LSU’s Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety (CARTS), she contributed to data-driven projects aimed at enhancing roadway safety. Grateful for the mentorship that has guided her journey, Shelby is eager to pay it forward. This fall, she’ll relocate to Houston to join Chevron as a software engineer, continuing her commitment to innovative problem-solving.

Dalton Arcement, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Madisonville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Kevin Hoffseth

Dalton’s advisor says “if you want a guy to lead and figure out how to best help people, pick him.” This might be because Dalton is cool under pressure, which he says is his secret superpower. Or it might be because he likes to push himself: Dalton is an avid weightlifter and runner, and is currently learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. He says “pushing myself physically doubles as a way to sharpen my mind and find new boundaries to break through.” His two favorite internships were with the Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic with Drs. Jason Smith and Nick Hatzis, who inspired Dalton to follow in their footsteps. Dalton will be heading to the LSU New Orleans School of Medicine in August, and hopes to eventually work in orthopedic surgery.

Amber Ashton, Industrial Engineering and Studio Art
Minor:
Hometown:
Faculty Advisor: Isa Nahmens

As an engineering and art student, Amber Ashton has developed a variety of hands-on skills from lathing, milling, and welding to sculpture and stop-motion animation. Falling in love with industrial engineering, Amber's made many improvements as a student employee at the LSU Advanced Manufacturing and Machining Facility and helped streamline operations as an intern at the Community Coffee Manufacturing Plant in Port Allen. While watching robots do the work is fun, sometimes you have to do the heavy lifting yourself. As a member of the LSU powerlifting team, Amber placed fifth nationally in her weight class in 2023. After graduation, Amber is excited to start a full-time position in ABB’s 2025 Discovery Program: Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs) Manufacturing Ops & Supply Chain Track that will take her out of the state for an extended period for the first time.

Amber's profile is also listed under the College of Art & Design.

Caroline Badeaux, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Caroline Badeaux is proud of her communication skills, having shadowed dentists and doctors not only in Baton Rouge but also in Zaragoza, Spain. As the founder and president of Global Dental Brigades at LSU, Caroline organized a successful volunteer trip to Guatemala. She loves being a mentor, whether it's as a troop leader for Girl Scouts or as a science tutor in the LSU Academic Center for Student-Athletes, where she was recognized as Tutor of the Month. In her spare time, she likes to crochet stuffed animals. After graduation, Caroline will attend LSU School of Dentistry.

Cameron Bonds, Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Biological Engineering
Hometown: Prairieville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Genevieve Palardy

Cameron Bonds is the kind of person you want on your team—sharp, driven, and a third-degree black belt in Choi Kwang Do. As President of the Coalition of Black Women in Engineering and a former VP of National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), she leads with clarity, compassion, and serious skill. She recently won LSU’s 2024–2025 Student Employee of the Year Purple Award—after being nominated three times. Whether roller skating with friends or leading engineering meetings, Cameron brings energy and excellence. After graduation, she’s heading to Temecula, California to work as a Manufacturing Engineer at Abbott, ready to innovate, lead, and keep breaking barriers.

Claire Bougere, Biological Engineering*
Hometown: Geismar, La.
Faculty Advisor: Todd Monroe

From reading an entire book in a single day to perfecting intricate nail art, Claire Bougere brings intensity and precision to everything she does—including biomedical engineering. A proud College Honors grad and (soon-to-be-confirmed) LSU Distinguished Undergraduate Researcher, Claire has spent her time at LSU not only solving complex problems in the lab, but also lifting others up—whether by mentoring fellow researchers or volunteering at the LSU Food Pantry. She’s led with clarity and care as Recording Secretary of Tau Beta Pi and found her voice through clubs like Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and Biological Engineering Student Organization (BESO). Next up? A Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering at Tulane University.

Maximilien (Max) Caffery, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Metairie, La.
Faculty Advisor: Marybeth Lima

Max has been the official driver of the LSU Community Playground Project for the past several years because, according to his advisor, “he knows how to put his hands on 10 and 2 and get us to our destination in such a way that everyone is safe and uplifted.” In addition to driving teams toward community impact, Max has also led research and design engineering projects. Max worked in the LSU Cardiovascular Engineering Lab, helping his collaborators to create a cost-effective mechanical testing system for vascular specimens. He is especially proud of his Distinguished Undergraduate Researcher distinction, and he’s excited to see his work go on after he leaves. After graduation, Max will be moving to Dallas to work for the civil engineering firm Kimley-Horn.

Donovan Carney, Industrial Engineering
Hometown: Folsom, La.
Faculty Advisor: Isa Nahmens

Despite sleeping in his vehicle during the first half of his senior year, Donovan says, “I made it! God brought me through.” With the Black Male Leadership Initiative, Donovan served the Lake Charles community after Hurricane Laura, and in Senior Design he explored not only the technical aspects of his work, but also the work of leadership and communication. In this and other settings, Donovan notes that making space to reflect on his communication skills has enabled him not only to refine reflexivity as a skill, but has also had broader impacts on his work and helped him discover the value of his and others’ stories. In his spare time, he enjoys drawing, basketball, what he likes to call “light carpentry projects,” reading and journaling. After graduation Donovan heads to New Orleans to begin his career at Folgers.

Elia Jane Chatham, Mechanical Engineering*
Minors: Business Administration, Chinese
Hometown: Bradenton, Fla.
Faculty Advisor: Katherine Pettrey

It’s not every LSU graduate who can include “head wrangler” on their resume, but Jane spent the summer after her first year of college responsible for 26 horses and 20 guests at a dude ranch in Wyoming. Her multifaceted part-time jobs continued with tending bar at Fred’s in Tigerland while also holding a leadership role in the Stamps Scholars cohort and Tau Beta Pi engineering honors society, as well as learning Chinese. Her Mandarin language skills were helpful in her experience as an intern in finance and operations with Seaman Paper at their Hong Kong headquarters. After graduation, Jane will head to Houston to work in commercial development at Exxon.

Reagan Courville, Mechanical Engineering and French*
Minor: Aerospace Engineering
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Shyam Menon

From composing music on the banjo to winning a francophone literary prize, Reagan Courville brings creativity and curiosity to everything he does. A mechanical engineering graduate fluent in French (with a Canadian twist), Reagan honed his leadership and communication skills as Treasurer of Tau Beta Pi and through senior design projects. His favorite experience? Interning at Los Alamos National Lab, where science meets history and terrain. After earning his degree summa cum laude, Reagan is heading to McGill University to pursue a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering—ready to research alternative fuels and keep blending technical rigor with imaginative storytelling.

Reagan's profile is also listed under the College of Humanities & Social Sciences.

Nnamdi Dike, Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Genevieve Palardy

Nnamdi loves courtroom dramas, and believes that “in another universe, I am a lawyer somewhere in California.” He may not have graduated from law school, but his accomplishments are still impressive: for many engineering majors, graduating in four years is a difficult feat. Nnamdi finished his degree in three and a half. And he did so while also participating in extracurriculars and service work like Math Mondays at the Louisiana Leadership Institute, where he and other members of the LSU National Society of Black Engineers tutored K-12 students to sharpen their math skills. He is proudest of his first-place award in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Shark Tank competition. Nnamdi will be staying in Baton Rouge after graduation, as he embarks on a master’s degree in mechanical engineering at LSU.

Amerika Embers, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Amerika Embers describes herself as a biological engineering student with a creative edge. As a member of the Narrative Medicine cohort, she collaborated with healthcare providers, fellow students, and patients to explore the healing power of storytelling. She also volunteered at Baton Rouge General Hospital, working with patients on arts and crafts projects. Outside of her academic and volunteer work, Amerika shares tips on managing natural curly hair with her 120,000 social media followers. After graduation, she plans to attend medical school and pursue a career as a reconstructive plastic surgeon.

Isaiah Fernandez, Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Robotics Engineering
Hometown: Atlanta, Ga.
Faculty Advisor: Roberto Champney

Isaiah Fernandez is a proud mechanical engineering graduate who’s as comfortable on an offshore platform as he is leading a student organization. From interning with Hess Corporation’s Gulf of Mexico Technology team to holding leadership roles in National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Lifting Our Voices (LOV), and Alpha Phi Alpha, Isaiah has demonstrated that clear communication is essential in both technical and collaborative settings. He credits the Distinguished Communicator program with enhancing his ability to convey complex ideas effectively. After graduation, Isaiah will be working as a Foundation Engineer with Hess Corporation in Houston, TX, ready to tackle new challenges in the energy sector.

MacKenzie Froelich, Construction Management
Minors: Business Administration, Technical Sales
Hometown: Gallatin, Tenn.
Faculty Advisor: Stephanie Heumann

If you’ve ever met MacKenzie Froelich, you know she’s never met a stranger. Her advisor says that “When [she] first met MacKenzie [she] thought how welcoming her smile was and how friendly and authentic she was.” MacKenzie’s warmth, natural leadership, and curiosity have shaped every part of her journey—from outdoor rock climbing adventures to interning at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where she embraced new cultures and perspectives. A Construction Management graduate and proud member of Sigma Lambda Chi, MacKenzie recently passed the American Institute for Constructors Level 1 Exam. She’s used communication skills not just in classrooms and job sites, but in everyday life. After graduation, MacKenzie will step into a full-time role as a project engineer.

Robbi Goodyear, Petroleum Engineering
Minors: Energy, Geology
Hometown: Bowie, Md.
Faculty Advisor: Femi Olorode

Robbi says, “I've been told that I do a lot here on campus, especially in Patrick F. Taylor Hall.” And she certainly has! Robbi has been a project supervisor for Geaux Engineering, a Chevron Engineering Ambassador, a supplemental instruction instructor, a tutor for the EXCELD (Excellence in Calculus/STEM for Engineering Leadership and Diversity) program, and an intern in LSU’s Petroleum Engineering Research, Training, & Testing Laboratory. She was also awarded the Leadership Legacy Award from the Society of Peer Mentors. When Robbi isn’t working on one of the many engineering-related things she’s done at LSU, she is a digital artist with a focus on landscapes and cartoons. After graduation, she plans to go home, rest, and then get back to work.

Sydney Gotham, Construction Management
Minors: Business Administration, Technical Sales
Hometown: Blaine, Minn.
Faculty Advisor: Stephanie Heumann

Sydney Gotham loves to travel, having visited 44 states and 32 countries to date. She got to see the Notre Dame cathedral before the fire and then watch the global response to the fire. Through that experience, she learned about the immense impact buildings can have on people and decided to study construction management. Coming from Minneapolis, Minnesota, Sydney is very proud of finishing college in a place so far away from home, which allowed her to grow as a person. After graduation, she will be moving back to her hometown to start a job in cost analysis and project management at Atkins Realis. She hopes to make a positive change in the construction industry in many areas, including gender discrimination. She plans to one day own her own contracting firm.

Olivia Hupperich, Biological Engineering*
Minor: Chemistry
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Whether she’s assisting patients at a dental clinic or serving crawfish at a Biological Engineering Student Organization (BESO) event, Olivia Hupperich brings energy, empathy, and creativity to every part of her life. A biological engineering major with a passion for healthcare, Olivia blends science and service by balancing leadership organizations like the Global Dental Brigades with artistic hobbies like painting and gaming. She credits the CxC program with boosting her confidence in public speaking and pushing her toward leadership. Next up: dental school at LSU, where she’ll continue combining engineering insight with compassionate care. And, yes, she’s still never been to Taco Bell.

Emily LeBlanc, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Lafayette, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Emily LeBlanc believes in the power of people skills. “While knowledge and accomplishments are important, relationships with peers or mentors are equally important,” she says. She pours herself into her community by serving on her sorority’s executive board, and volunteering at places like St. Joseph Hospice and Sunrise Assisted Living, where she even started a program dedicated to painting with residents with dementia this past year. Her passion for caring for others is evidenced in her being awarded the Engaged Citizen Medal, which she cites as her proudest achievement. After graduation, her career of care will continue, as she plans to apply to school to become a Physician’s Assistant. For now, she’s looking forward to celebrating graduation with her friends who are fellow Distinguished Communicators.

Madison Lee, Biological Engineering*
Hometown: Prairieville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Todd Monroe

Madison Lee doesn't just play pickleball—she competes with purpose. Since picking up the sport in the summer of 2024, she's participated in multiple intramural tournaments, demonstrating her dedication and competitive spirit. Her commitment extends beyond athletics; Madison earned the LSU Distinguished Communicator medal, College Honors, and distinctions as an Engaged Citizen and Distinguished Undergraduate Researcher. She is particularly proud of her research project on the use of cannabinoids in treating triple-negative breast cancer. This fall, Madison will continue her academic journey at the LSU New Orleans School of Medicine, where she aims to further her contributions to medical research and practice.

Shea Lee, Biological Engineering*
Hometown: Prairieville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Yongchan Kwon

Shea Lee is driven by a passion for accessible healthcare and inspired by her mother, a nurse. She adapted toys to make them accessible for children with disabilities, witnessing firsthand the joy these innovations brought. As the Alpha Epsilon Delta Preceptorship chair, Shea organized a shadowing program, successfully matching over fifty students with physicians in a single semester. Known for her nurturing personality, Shea is also a Brazilian jiu-jitsu blue belt—proving that compassion and strength go hand in hand. After graduation, she plans to pursue a medical degree.

Michael Martinez, Construction Management
Minors: Business Administration, Technical Sales
Hometown: Los Lunas, N.M.
Faculty Advisor: Gerrad Delatte

Michael Martinez didn’t just study construction—he built a college experience defined by creativity, leadership, and unexpected talents (ask him about his spot-on voice impressions). Balancing drone videography with leading his ABC Competition team, Michael discovered that clear communication is just as essential on a job site as it is behind a camera. His time with LEMOINE’s disaster relief team grounded him in the real-world impact of resilient infrastructure. Now, as he plans to remain in Baton Rouge to work with a general contractor, Michael is ready to keep building—structures, teams, and a career rooted in thoughtful connection.

Myla McCuller, Computer Science (Software Engineering)
Hometown: Americus, Ga.
Faculty Advisor: Roberto Champney

Myla McCuller feels like she’s come a long way in a few short years. A first-generation college graduate, she’s proud to have completed her Computer Science (Software Engineering) degree despite having a scant background in the subject to start. During her time at LSU, she volunteered with Destination LSU, served as Secretary and Publications Chair for the National Black Society of Engineers, and also as the Vice President of Communications for ColorStack – opportunities that have allowed her to, in her own words, “uplift others, build community, and lead with intention.” With her enthusiasm and diligence, she not only secured two internships during her time in undergrad, but also a full-time position with The Southern Company in Atlanta, Georgia, where she will work after graduation. While there, she plans to work towards also starting her own business within the next two years.

Gabriella (Gabbie) Mikhail, Biological Engineering*
Minor: Psychology
Hometown: Biloxi, Miss.
Faculty Advisor: Marybeth Lima

Gabbie is a dancer, music fan, and an avid traveler, visiting everywhere from the Grand Canyon to Cairo. Her academic interests are equally wide reaching, including pursuing psychology research in addition to her coursework and engineering projects such as working with the LSU Community Playground Project. Her advisor says, “Gabbie is the student in the room with the most energy; she has been adept at leveraging that energy to make the world a better place as an engineer and a citizen.” After graduation, Gabbie will be attending Maastricht University in the Netherlands to pursue a master's degree in healthcare policy, innovation, and management.

Britney Nguyen, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Baton Rouge
Faculty Advisor: Todd Monroe

Ask Britney Nguyen about science, and she’ll walk you through her microbiology research. Ask her about color theory, and she might show you how to mix the perfect shade of paint by eye. A biological engineering major with a sharp sense of structure—both in routine and communication—Britney found her voice mentoring young students and presenting her research at Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists as an LSU Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) Scholar. This fall, she heads to Tulane School of Medicine for a Master’s in Microbiology and Immunology where she’ll no doubt continue bridging curiosity, compassion, and community.

Sunella Ramnath, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Mathematics
Minors: Computer Engineering, Robotics
Hometown: Gasparillo, Trinidad and Tobago
Faculty Advisor: Theda Daniels-Race

A 2021 International Mathematics Olympiad representative for Trinidad and Tobago, Sunella Ramnath's passion for engineering began with crafting cricket equipment from coconut palms in her backyard. These days, she combines her love for mathematics with engineering and computer science by developing robots and applying machine learning to analyze frog egg specimens. Beyond her technical pursuits, Sunella plays the steelpan and composes her own music. This fall, she will pursue graduate studies in Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University, continuing to bridge creativity, computation, and community.

Sunella's profile is also listed under the College of Science.

Catherine Rodriquez, Computer Science*
Minor: Digital Media Arts & Engineering Technology
Hometown: Hammond, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nash Mahmoud

Catherine’s deadlift record is 275 pounds, as a high-school senior in the 105-pound category, so she’s clearly used to exceeding expectations. As a first-generation college student, she had her doubts about what she was capable of, but her advisor says, “Catherine is a true model of an exemplary student. As an advisor, I consider her the most outstanding communicator I have ever worked with at LSU.” Catherine values her College Honors distinction for proving her abilities to herself. She enjoyed her internship at Deloitte, especially the week-long event when interns across the country gathered to build skateboards and bikes for kids. After graduation, Catherine will be pursuing a Ph.D. at LSU.

Victoria Sartin, Biological Engineering*
Hometown: Geismar, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Victoria claims to have “mastered the delicate art of the all-nighter,” which may explain how many clubs and associations she’s managed to join during her time at LSU—Tau Beta Pi, the Biological Engineering Student Organization, and Alpha Epsilon Delta—on top of her volunteer work with St. Joseph's Carpenter House and at LSU's Food Pantry. The Food Pantry was especially meaningful to her since it provided direct support to students in need. Of the experience, she shares, "it reminded me of the importance of empathy, community, and showing up for others, all values I’ll carry with me into my future career." A recreational spreadsheeter, Victoria enjoys creating structure for things that don’t usually require spreadsheets. "It's my oddly satisfying hobby," she claims. She is especially proud of her College Honors distinction, and her advisor says she has been “a dedicated student, researcher, and heavily involved in the BE community.”

Emma Skeath, Civil Engineering
Hometown: Mobile, Ala.
Faculty Advisor: Suresh Moorthy

Meet Emma Skeath, a civil engineering graduate whose journey at LSU has been defined by growth, leadership, and a commitment to service. Once a reserved student, Emma embraced every opportunity to develop her communication skills, from classroom presentations to community outreach with the Engineering Development Ambassadors. Her favorite internship involved designing transmission poles with Power Engineers, where she applied her technical expertise and collaborative spirit. Emma’s advice to future students: “Put yourself out there—no matter what happens, nobody can say you didn’t try.” After graduation, she will join Dashiell Corporation as a Transmission/Substation Engineer in Baton Rouge.

Kaelyn Smith, Mechanical Engineering*
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Corina Barbalata

Kaelyn Smith is truly someone with varied interests: when she’s not finding the perfect gift for a person or doing a spot-on Daffy Duck impression, she loves playing golf and crocheting (though not, she emphasizes, at the same time). Having been passionate about coding and robotics since high school, she’s been going full-throttle during her Mechanical Engineering degree. Some of her favorite experiences have come from working at the ICORE Robotics Lab at LSU: “I got to work with amazing people who were always willing to help/teach and learn, which I truly admire, as well as the robotics projects being conducted were very cool to even be a small part of.” Another point of pride is her Capstone project: Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing Optimized Structure, in which she got to put all her engineering skills into real applications and flex her communication skills. Outside the lab, she spent her time with the Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, where she worked on various community service projects based on conservation efforts. As she prepares for graduation, she’s currently interviewing at multiple companies, with a focus on working in research in the medical devices field, or in the development and manufacturing center.

Samantha (Sam) Staggs, Mechanical Engineering and Theatre*
Hometown: Shreveport, La.
Faculty Advisor: Rockford Sansom

Sam’s advisor says, “Sam is perhaps the only engineer on the planet who can recite Shakespearean soliloquies while performing on aerial silks.” Sam’s talents extend behind the curtain as well: her favorite internship was as a stage manager intern with Celtic Film Studios while Disney was filming the National Treasures television series. She is especially proud of her service with the LSU Student Government, where she served terms as Speaker of the Senate and deputy Chief Justice and managed to actually get some policy changes through to benefit her fellow students. After graduation, Sam will be starting her first rotation for W. R. Grace's Manufacturing Leadership Program in Lake Charles, La.

Sam's profile is also listed under the College of Music & Dramatic Arts.

Camryn (Cam) Tims, Biological Engineering*
Hometown: Ruston, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Cam says that there is not a single person she cannot make laugh. As a first-generation college student, Cam is also the first engineer in their family. Becoming an Louisiana Cancer Research Center's Summer Undergraduate Cancer Research Experience (SUCRE) Fellow opened the door for Cam to do breast cancer research in a professional lab, and she considers it the most rewarding experience of her college career. Cam has also earned the LSU Engaged Citizen distinction and was inducted into the LSU chapter of the Collegiate 100. When Cam isn't doing meaningful research or making others laugh, she's spending time going to festivals, listening to music, and mastering the electric guitar, which she says she can "sorta kinda play." This fall, Cam will be heading to New Orleans to enjoy more festivals and work toward a master’s degree in molecular medicine at Tulane University.

Robin Torres, Mechanical Engineering
Hometown: Reserve, La.
Faculty Advisor: Corina Barbalata

Robin Torres blends technical expertise with creative pursuits. As a team lead for LSU’s Geaux Engineering program and an EXCEL tutor, she has mentored incoming students and assisted first-year engineering students in STEM courses. Robin is also an active member of the Society of Peer Mentors, Society of Women Engineers, and American Society of Mechanical Engineers. In her spare time, she enjoys sewing, quilting, crafting, and playing frisbee with her dog. After graduation, Robin will join Marathon Petroleum in Garyville, continuing to blend technical skill with community impact.

Mary Margaret Werther, Biological Engineering
Hometown: Lafayette, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

Mary Margaret Werther’s undergraduate journey was shaped not only by labs and leadership, but by deep connection—with peers, professors, and the people she calls chosen family. Between presenting at Society of Women Engineers (SWE), mentoring through Tau Beta Pi, and juggling executive board roles, she still made time for the things that bring her joy: baking tiered cakes, watching beauty tutorials, and prepping for five weddings—yes, five—where she’ll show up as maid of honor, bridesmaid, and beloved guest. With her gifts for translating complexity and leading with clarity, she’s heading to LSU Law, ready to grow alongside the community she cherishes.

Catherine Whitehead, Biological Engineering*
Hometown: Lafayette, La.
Faculty Advisor: Yongchan Kwon

Catherine Whitehead has always had being a Tiger in her blood; since she was little, she wanted to be in the trombone section of the Tiger Band, just like her dad. She’s achieved that and more as she balanced four years of Tiger Band and her engineering workload, marching in her dad’s pregame spot on the 50 yard line at the bottom of the ‘S’ in LSU (home side) for the past four years. It should come as no surprise that her most beloved achievement is The Golden Band from Tigerland’s Rhonda K. McGrew Outstanding New Member Award, which she received at the conclusion of her first season in Tiger Band her freshman year. When she isn’t marching up a storm, she flexes her communication skills teaching a Sunfish sailing class with her dad at Cypremort Point in the summers (with students ranging from 6 to 36), and interning with Research and Development at Tides Medical LLC in Lafayette, where she hopes to continue working full-time after graduation.

Marise Wilson, Biological Engineering
Hometown: New Orleans, La.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Totaro

While she’s proud of the awards she’s earned, the recognition that matters the most to Marise isn’t a formal title or certificate: “it’s the pride my family has in me.” From spending time with family to singing at her church, Marise is focused on how her skill sets can be shared with the community that supports her. Volunteering as a patient companion in the Butterfly Wing with Hospice of Baton Rouge is one such way that Marise feels especially connected to community. As for next steps, Marise is currently interning for medical device companies and weighing her options between two graduate programs at Tulane.

College of Human Sciences & Education

Victoria (Vic) Cronan, Human Development & Family Science (Child Life)*
Hometown: Saint Gabriel, La.
Faculty Advisor: Hannah Plauche

If you ever find yourself in an escape room, you want Vic Cronan on your team. Whether leading as president of Kappa Beta Gamma or working with young patients at Children’s Hospital New Orleans, Vic brings empathy, adaptability, and precise communication to every challenge. Through working as a Communication Coach, Vic learned how to connect with diverse audiences—a skill that will be crucial during graduate studies in Child Life at the University of Georgia. Vic’s journey is a testament to confidence gained through experience and reflection, and CxC’s 2024–25 Head Communication Coach leaves LSU not only as a Distinguished Communicator, but as an advocate ready to make an impact.

College of Humanities & Social Sciences

Charlotte Balart, English (Literature) and History*
Minors: Honors Research, Spanish
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Chris Barrett

Charlotte Balart is a storyteller at heart, seamlessly blending creativity and rigor in every medium she touches. Whether it's dance, photography, or archival research, she crafts compelling narratives that resonate deeply. Her summer research at LSU's Hill Memorial Library, where she delved into the Nancy Pinson Papers, showcased her ability to transform historical documents into engaging educational tools. Graduating with College Honors and as a Distinguished Researcher, Charlotte's dedication to excellence is evident. She will continue her academic journey at LSU's Graduate School, pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary Education, ready to inspire the next generation.

Abbie Bui, Interdisciplinary Studies (Anthropology, Chemistry, and Health Sciences) and Biological Sciences*
Hometown: Slidell, La.
Faculty Advisor: Caroline Schneider

Abbie Bui says her hidden superpower is being able to sleep anywhere and at any time. That must be her secret to how she’s accomplished so much during her time at LSU; Abbie is a Tiger Twelve finalist, President of TriBeta Biological Honor Society (an organization she has helped reach “Purple” status), Preceptorship Chair of AED Pre-Medical Honor Society, a recipient of the SOARS Scholars scholarship through her entire four year tenure, and has presented at various research conferences. She also volunteered with the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Team during the fallout of Hurricane Ida in 2021, during which she handed out meals, tarps, and other essentials to impacted communities around Jefferson Parish and Lake Charles. On top of all of this, she is a first-generation college graduate, which she hopes shows others that anything is possible. She attributes her success to her loving support system, especially her boyfriend Eduardo. After LSU, she’s taking a gap year to work full-time as an EKG Technician at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, while also taking time to travel. Afterwards, she will continue pursuing her goal of attending medical school to become a Pediatrician.

Abbie's profile is also listed under the College of Science.

Ryleigh Choplin, Geography*
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Jill Trepanier

Ryleigh Choplin is a geographer and communicator who turned early social anxiety into a strength, becoming a confident leader and public speaker through roles like weather anchor at Tiger TV. She served as President of the Geography and Anthropology Undergraduate Society and completed over 360 research hours, earning a spot as a Distinguished Researcher candidate. Her honors thesis on alpine ice caves won the Carville Earle Undergraduate Paper Prize. Known for making complex ideas easy to understand, Ryleigh will continue at LSU to pursue a Master’s in Geography—where her communication skills will keep shaping meaningful research and collaboration.

Cathryn Clay, Political Science*
Minors: Entrepreneurship, Mass Communication
Hometown: Pensacola, Fla.
Faculty Advisor: Sadie Wilks

If you ever need a golf buddy, stock tip, or perfectly planned trip, Cathryn Clay is your person. From a commendation-winning PR campaign for the Board of Directors of the Environment and Health Council of Louisiana’s “Cancer and Louisiana” conference to juggling work across political science, business, and mass comm, she’s made the most of every opportunity at LSU. Her internships, especially with Vivid Ink Graphics, shaped a communicator ready to lead with purpose. She’ll graduate debt-free—a goal she set as a freshman—and starts as a junior consultant at Emergent Method right after graduation. Cathryn’s advice? Jump in. Be bold. The rewards, she says, are worth it.

Reagan Courville, French and Mechanical Engineering*
Minor: Aerospace Engineering
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Shyam Menon

Reagan's profile is also listed under the College of Engineering.

Ashton Dalton, Religious Studies and Animal-Dairy-Poultry Science
Hometown: Carencro, La.
Faculty Advisor: Brad Storin

Ashton's profile is also listed under the College of Agriculture.

Hannah Hauck, Psychology*
Minors: Biology, Classical Civilization
Hometown: LaPlace, La.
Faculty Advisor: David Donze

Hannah Hauck is a dynamic leader whose energy and wit leave an unforgettable impression. Whether it’s entertaining with impromptu karaoke or facilitating events, Hannah knows how to make a meaningful impact. Named "Undergraduate Student Leader of the Year" for 2024, she was recognized for her collaborative spirit and the events she organized, such as the medical school personal statement workshop she led with Alpha Epsilon Delta. Hannah is passionate about volunteering with the Gift of Life National Marrow Registry, and has helped register over 600 students. As a CxC Communication Coach, Hannah’s enthusiasm and flair for the dramatic livened up Studio 151, while her expertise helped many students successfully complete projects. After graduation, she’s heading to LSU Health New Orleans’ School of Medicine, bringing her leadership skills and enthusiasm wherever she goes.

Makenna Luba, Psychology*
Minors: Business Administration, Geology
Hometown: Leesburg, Va.
Faculty Advisor: Achim Herrmann

Makenna Luba is the kind of person who brings both creativity and precision to every project—whether crafting balloon arches or leading behavioral research. As an honors psychology student, her thesis earned first place at Discover Day and aided her in gaining the Distinguished Undergraduate Researcher medal. Professionally, she sharpened her communication skills as a marketing associate at TFG Private Wealth Management. Makenna says her most valuable skill is intentional communication, especially when building strong teams. After graduation, she plans to continue her research in psychology and pursue graduate studies, ready to explore how communication shapes human behavior in meaningful ways.

Sophia Merritt, Communication Disorders
Minors: Linguistics, Psychology
Hometown: Metairie, La.
Faculty Advisor: Todd Gibson

Sophia Merritt is a natural leader with a gift for public speaking and a passion for making meaningful connections. As the youngest of three, she’s learned to hold her own while also supporting those around her. Sophia values her academic achievements, especially her President's Honor Roll awards, which reflect her dedication to academic excellence. Her time in the Language Intervention Lab was one of her most rewarding experiences, allowing her to connect with professionals in the Communication Disorders field. After completing her degree in three years, Sophia is heading to LSU Health Sciences Center Graduate School for Communication Disorders to continue her journey.

Yoojin (Melody) Moon, Psychology*
Minors: Digital Media Arts & Engineering, Music
Hometown: Lafayette, La.
Faculty Advisor: Janet McDonald

Melody Moon is a psychology major, musician, and visual artist who brings creativity and clarity to every project. From writing scientific papers to designing original artwork, Melody shows command of many communication modes. During her internship at the Capitol Park Museum, she combined research and storytelling to engage the public. She credits the Distinguished Communicator program with helping her grow more confident speaking with others and leading group work. After graduation, Melody plans to take a gap year to explore her interests. Her advice to future students? “Have fun!”

Ezra Moore, Psychology (Cognitive Neuroscience)*
Minor: Communication Disorders & Sciences
Hometown: Slidell, La.
Faculty Advisor: Matthew Calamia

Ezra Moore is the kind of person who brings a unique blend of curiosity and leadership wherever he goes. As Vice President of LSU’s Psychology Club, he’s developed his communication skills to connect with a variety of audiences—whether presenting research or leading meetings. Ezra’s most impactful experience came during his McNair Summer Internship, where he presented his first research poster and decided to pursue a career in research. Outside of his academic life, Ezra’s interests range from crocheting to collecting records, reflecting his creativity and diverse passions. After graduation, he’s on track for a fellowship, ready to take his research career to the next level.

Darlina Tran, Psychology*
Minor: English
Hometown: Chalmette, La.
Faculty Advisor: Danielle Thomas

Darlina Tran is a student who knows the power of pushing through fear. As a first-generation college graduate and someone who has worked tirelessly on her College Honors project, Darlina has turned challenges into triumphs. She’s not just a future school psychologist, but a dedicated volunteer at the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank and a leader who finds strength in her voice—despite initially battling shyness and social anxiety. Through her time in the Distinguished Communicator program, Darlina has embraced public speaking and become more confident in every aspect of leadership. Now, she says, “I especially speak for the girls who are afraid to stand out in a room or feel self conscious of sharing their voice.” After graduation, she plans to work at a toddler academy and pursue a graduate degree in school psychology.

Isabel Willems, Communication Studies*
Minor: Criminology, Spanish
Hometown: Mandeville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Kellie Brisini

Isabel Willems is a natural leader with a heart for service and a fearless attitude toward the unknown. Whether it’s rescuing injured animals or handling creepy-crawlies, she’s the go-to person when things get a little wild. As co-president of the Fusion Literary Review, Isabel has proven her communication skills are key to leading a creative team and building community through writing. Her most rewarding experience was serving as the outreach intern for the Louisiana Coalition of Children Advocacy Centers, where she combined her passions for criminal justice and working with children. After graduation, Isabel will pursue full-time employment, bringing her dedication and leadership to everything she does.

Lailah Williams, Political Science and International Studies*
Minors: Honors Research, Mass Communication (Political Communication)
Hometown: McKinney, Texas
Faculty Advisor: Julie Baxter Payer

Lailah Williams is a dynamic, fearless leader with a knack for making an impact wherever she goes. Despite her fear of boats, she’s never shied away from diving into new experiences. As a Texas Truman Finalist, Tiger Twelve recipient, and Distinguished Researcher candidate, Lailah has earned recognition for her hard work and dedication. She’s particularly passionate about research, where her communication skills have empowered her to confidently present her work. Through her involvement in Geaux Big, Lailah’s dedication to community service has flourished. After graduation, Lailah is heading to Brown University on a full ride to pursue a Master’s in Public Affairs.

Manship School of Mass Communication

Isabella Albertini, Mass Communication (Journalism)*
Minor: Political Science
Hometown: Lima, Peru
Faculty Advisor: Sadie Wilks

Isabella is a person of many interests: she can play four different musical instruments, she’s working on a novel, and she loves boxing and MMA. In her time with The Reveille, Isabella published more than 25 articles, and she also interned with The Advocate. Her advisor says “her natural curiosity about people and places makes her work and personality shine!” Isabella is especially proud of her College Honors distinction and her thesis work in studying the impact student voter registration can have on voter turnout based on SEC campuses. She also values her induction into Kappa Tau Alpha, an honor society for top journalism students. After graduation, Isabella plans to attend law school.

Grace Ann Hamblin, Mass Communication (Public Relations)*
Minor: Business
Hometown: Metairie, La.
Faculty Advisor: Sadie Wilks

Grace Ann’s advisor says, “she seamlessly blends her personal and professional lives into one fantastic public image.” Her experiences at LSU and elsewhere have formed the content of her social media presence. She also has another interest in public image, having spent time as an intern with NILSU, a campus organization that works with student-athletes to develop their personal brands. She is especially proud of winning the Greek Star of the Year award from Greek Life at LSU. Grace Ann is also a member of a number of organizations: Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), Bateman Team, Manship Ambassadors, Delta Gamma, and Christ the King. After graduation, Grace Ann will be working full time in New Orleans for Paul Desisto Talent Management as an Affiliate Assistant.

Olivia Johnson, Mass Communication (Public Relations)*
Minor: Dance
Hometown: Pineville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Sadie Wilks

Olivia’s advisor says, “If you need a story to be told, call Olivia.” Likewise, if you need a verbatim rendition of a scene from Friends–she can quote whole scenes. She is especially proud of her College Honors distinction and her thesis work, "'Why I Dance': Effects of Social Media on the Social Identity of Dancers," which studied the relationships between social media, dance and identity. This research yielded more than just a thesis, it also led to a social media campaign for the LSU Dance program that generated 800 Instagram followers in four weeks. Olivia is looking to pursue a public relations job in the arts and entertainment field after graduation.

Riley Lawson, Mass Communication (Digital Advertising) and Textiles, Apparel & Merchandising
Minor: Business Administration
Hometown: Prairieville, La.
Faculty Advisor: Jun Heo

Riley's profile is also listed under the College of Agriculture.

Amanda MacFadyen, Mass Communication (Public Relations)
Minor: Physical Theatre
Hometown: Lafayette, La.
Faculty Advisor: Sadie Wilks

Amanda has a talent for organizing people and events. As the co-chair of Greek Week, she planned the logistics and fundraising, including meal donations and social media posts. Her work helped the LSU Greek community raise more than $60,000 and build homes for local families. She is also proud of her success on LSU’s 2024–25 Bateman Team, which received honorable mention in the national competition. Her advisor says, “Amanda's creative communication style sets her apart from her peers, as she effortlessly blends her artistic flair with a solid foundation of effective communication techniques.” After graduation, she will be looking for a position with a philanthropic focus in Colorado.

Kaylee Rome, Mass Communication (Public Relations)
Minor: Leadership Development
Hometown: Vacherie, La.
Faculty Advisor: Sadie Wilks

Kaylee’s hidden talent is the ability to tell a story through a 30-second social media clip. As a part of Tiger TV, she created Instagram reels that helped to increase Tiger TV’s followers and build brand awareness. She also created social media content during her internship with NILSU, a campus organization that works with student-athletes to develop their personal brands. Kaylee is especially proud to have started an LSU chapter of Her Campus, an online magazine aimed at female college students. After graduation, Kaylee plans to pursue a master’s degree in mass communication while also working full-time.

Carlin Sekhani-Matthews, Mass Communication (Public Relations)
Minor: Sports Studies
Hometown: Lafayette, LA
Faculty Advisor: Hyojung Park

The most surprising place Carlin has found herself using her communication skills was while serving as the chair of the election commission for the LSU Student Government, where she tailored strategic messaging to various stakeholders. This position also showed Carlin’s commitment to ethics and prioritization of long-term impact, even in high-pressure situations. Carlin has also been active with her sorority, Pi Beta Phi, and received the Chapter Service Award for Outstanding Servant Leadership, which recognizes a senior who has demonstrated consistent, dedicated service to the chapter, with a focus on supporting the Fraternity rather than personal recognition. After graduation, she will continue to serve Pi Beta Phi as a traveling leadership development consultant.

Sydney Smith, Mass Communication (Political Communication)
Minors: Communication Studies, Political Science
Hometown: Carrollton, Texas
Faculty Advisor: Joni Butcher

Sydney is a self-described “animal whisperer,” so it’s a good thing she has spent time volunteering with Companion Animal Alliance. While helping out at the shelter, Sydney adopted her very own cat, Apollo, which she calls “one of the best things I did in my college career.” Her advocacy and organizing experience doesn’t stop at animals, either–Sydney has worked with the LSU Student Government in a number of positions, including as a candidate in 2024 with the Empower campaign. Sydney will be heading to Washington, D.C. in August to begin law school at American University Washington College of Law.

College of Music & Dramatic Arts

Caitlin Church, Theatre and Art & Design (Art History)
Hometown: Lake Arrowhead, Calif.
Faculty Advisor: Nick Erickson

Caitlin's profile is also listed under the College of Art & Design.

Samantha (Sam) Staggs, Theatre (Performance) and Mechanical Engineering*
Hometown: Shreveport, La.
Faculty Advisor: Rockford Sansom

Sam’s advisor says, “Sam is perhaps the only engineer on the planet who can recite Shakespearean soliloquies while performing on aerial silks.” Sam’s talents extend behind the curtain as well: her favorite internship was as a stage manager intern with Celtic Film Studios while Disney was filming the National Treasures television series. She is especially proud of her service with the LSU Student Government, where she served terms as Speaker of the Senate and deputy Chief Justice and managed to actually get some policy changes through to benefit her fellow students. After graduation, Sam will be starting my first rotation for W. R. Grace's Manufacturing Leadership Program in Lake Charles, La.

Sam's profile is also listed under the College of Engineering.

College of Science

Emily Andrews, Biological Sciences (Secondary Education)
Hometown: Marietta, Ga
Faculty Advisor: Roger Laine

Emily Andrews is a practitioner of unexpected skills—on top of being an ordained minister, she also took a 70-hour private investigator course in high school. When she’s not exploring unusual avenues, baking, or needlepointing, she hones her communication skills in the classroom with the GeauxTeach program and volunteers with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. For now, she’s celebrating making it to this milestone along with her friends and fellow Distinguished Communicators Erica Clement and Kaedyn Baker. After graduation, she looks forward to undertaking a master’s program and continuing her path to medical school.

Kaedyn Baker, Biological Sciences (Secondary Education)*
Hometown: Houma, La.
Faculty Advisor: Zane Whittington

Fresh off her year-long teaching residency, Kaedyn Baker is more than ready to tackle her next big challenge. She attributes her success to her superpower of being able to spot a teachable moment in almost any situation, always seeking an opportunity to connect and learn with others. Her advisor recognizes that superpower, too, going even further to share that Kaedyn is “always overprepared to meet challenges and truly possesses a vision and purpose that is unparalleled in her ambitious pursuit of her personal goals.” Kaedyn has been passionate about communication from the start, and, to her, the Distinguished Communicator Medal symbolizes “the relationships built with students, the lessons learned alongside them, and the passion discovered for making complex concepts accessible and meaningful.” After graduation, she plans to attend medical school, where she will surely continue her passion for empathetic and informed communication and collaboration.

Ryan Brown, Physics and Astronomy
Hometown: Kenner, La.
Faculty Advisor: Gabriela González

Ryan Brown's journey at LSU seamlessly integrates the analytical with the artistic. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist, Ryan has contributed to multiple albums and projects, showcasing his musical versatility. His astrophysics presentations were marked by meticulous preparation, recording, and self-assessment, reflecting his commitment to effective communication. Beyond academics, Ryan's personal life is enriched by his wife and their seven-month-old son, who both share a birthday. A standout achievement includes his creation of an astronomical image by combining 81 photos using custom code, now proudly displayed in his living room. Post-graduation, Ryan aspires to contribute to the space industry, bringing his unique blend of skills and perspectives. His best advice to fellow students is simple: Practice, learn to embrace your nerves, and be confident in your work and abilities.

Abbie Bui, Biological Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies (Anthropology, Chemistry, and Health Sciences)*
Hometown: Slidell, La.
Faculty Advisor: Caroline Schneider

Abbie's profile is also listed under the College of Humanities & Social Sciences.

Erica Clement, Mathematics
Hometown: Kenner, La.
Faculty Advisor: Rebecca Nguyen

Erica Clement’s love of math started in the 8th grade, “where high-fiving a friend for solving a problem wasn't just welcome, it was encouraged,” she shares. She’s well positioned to instill that love for learning and support her fellow “math nerds” (her advisor’s description, not ours) with a high five. And seeing as she was formerly named Best Sense of Humor, we’re guessing she’s injecting a little fun along the way, too. Along with being the President of the GeauxTeach STEM Student Organization, she’s also completed her student teaching residency, taught calculus while studying abroad, and received the Margaret Oxley Mathematics Education Award, the selection criteria for which centers on teaching ability. She attributes her success to her support system of friends, mentors, and her students. After graduating from LSU, she plans on teaching at a local public school, and is already in the process of applying and interviewing for a position.

Sunella Ramnath, Mathematics, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering
Minor: Computer Engineering, Robotics
Hometown: Gasparillo, Trinidad and Tobago
Faculty Advisor: Theda Daniels-Race

Sunella's profile is also listed under the College of Engineering.

Lauren Rogers, Biological Sciences*
Minors: Chemistry, Health Science
Hometown: Watson, La.
Faculty Advisor: Caroline Schneider

Lauren Rogers firmly believes her friends are her superpower. “When I succeed, it’s never just me,” she shares. “I’ve learned that investing in others is the most underrated way to stay resilient and rise higher.” Lauren’s superpower has led her to embrace her title as student scientist at LSU: she won first place at the Emerging Researchers National Conference hosted by American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and funded by the National Science Foundation, served as Training Co-Chair for Honors College Advocates, and volunteered for Gift of Life. If you’re feeling intimidated by the achievements of this aspiring medical professional, know that she’s still like the rest of us and has to set six alarms to get up every morning. After graduating from LSU, she plans on working as an EMT for East Baton Rouge Emergency Medical Services while she prepares to go to medical school.

Ashlyn Schneida, Geology
Hometown: Covington, La.
Faculty Advisor: Matthew Loocke

Ashlyn always feels like her best self whenever she’s out in nature. She’s an expert at helping other people engage with the outdoors, too: she served as the President of the LSU Geology Club, received an award from the LSU American Association of Petroleum Geologists for her work as a student leader, and presented her research at conferences such as The American Geophysical Union, The Perkins-Rosen Conference, The Geological Society of America’s South-Central Regional Conference, and two Discover Days right here at LSU. Her favorite form of outreach is Rockin’ at the Swamp, a collaborative event between the LSU Geology Club, the Louisiana Geological Survey, and BREC designed to inform children about geology and geosciences. “It’s so rewarding talking about something I’m passionate about, and hearing kids say they want to be a geologist when they are older,” she says. After graduation, she plans on getting her master’s in Geology here at LSU under the gracious support of the Louisiana Geological Survey. Following that, she plans to either pursue her Ph.D. or begin a career in mineral exploration.

Alexa Tullier, Geology*
Hometown: Baton Rouge, La.
Faculty Advisor: Suniti Karunatillake

Alexa Tullier believes in the importance of having a global mindset, but her research goes beyond the global with an interplanetary perspective. Her Faculty Advisor praised her ability to take her knowledge of Earth’s stratigraphy to interpret a fault system on Mars. As the College of Science Global Ambassador, she also helped the Geology and Geophysics Planetary Science Lab lay the foundation for a future LSU undergraduate experience in a multinational research partnership “on the Mars-context serpentinite landscapes of Sri Lanka.” It’s no wonder she was named Most Outstanding Senior in Geology. When she’s not thinking about martian landscapes, she enjoys volunteering at the Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital (which brings her extra joy as a former patient herself). After graduating LSU, she plans on working in Environmental Consulting—something maybe a bit more down-to-Earth.

Ayesha Weerakoon, Biochemistry*
Hometown: Sri Lanka
Faculty Advisor: Caroline Schneider

Ayesha Weerakoon’s college experience is a testimony to determination and passion. Having moved to the U.S. from her birthplace of Sri Lanka only four years ago, she entered LSU with the minimum English communication requirements. During her time here, she has blossomed into a true communicator, tutoring Algebra and Trigonometry at the LSU MathLab, volunteering with Dr. Zhang’s research group, winning third place in the poster competition at this year’s Discover Day, and being nominated for the Choppin Honors Convocation Awards. She is now graduating a year early, even though she started with zero college credits. After LSU, she plans to attend Lincoln Memorial University’s DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine at Tennessee.

Dykia Williams, Biological Sciences*
Minor: Health Sciences
Hometown: Hammond, La.
Faculty Advisor: David Vinyard

Dykia Williams spent her time at LSU studying the intricacies of leadership. Between defending her honors thesis, volunteering with The Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Greater Baton Rouge, and competing at Running Start Women’s Leadership Conference, Dykia is well-practiced in creating meaningful connections with different audiences. She attributes this skill to developing her own unique communication style and voice—her key piece of advice for future Distinguished Communicators. Her most prized accomplishment is succeeding as a first generation college graduate and establishing a legacy for her family. After graduation, she intends to pursue a post-baccalaureate fellowship in California. She will then attend Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine to earn her Master's in Public Health.

*Honors students are designated with an asterisk.

About the LSU Distinguished Communicator Medal Program

Recipients of this honor are outstanding writers and speakers, with a strong command of visual literacy and technological communication. They have earned high GPAs in their communication-intensive courses throughout their baccalaureate years, sought 1-1 mentorships with faculty, and have built websites that display their communication competencies and professional talents, both in and beyond the classroom. LSU Distinguished Communicators also graduate with the LSU Communicator Certificate, launched in Fall 2018.

This distinction is the first of its kind in the nation. It is sponsored by LSU Communication across the Curriculum (CxC), a nationally recognized program for its excellence in enhancing learning experiences and improving students’ communication skills across all disciplines.