Assistant Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Louisiana State University à Louisiana State University
Signaler
Formation
Diversity is fundamental to LSU’s mission and the University is committed to creating and maintaining a living and learning environment that embraces individual difference. Cultural inclusion is of highest priority.
LSU Equity, Diversity, and Community Outreach Annual Diversity Report
3. OFFICE OF THE ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost ........................ Stuart R. Bell, PhD
OFFICE OF EQUITY, DIVERSITY & COMMUNITY OUTREACH (EDCO)
www.lsu.edu/diversity
Interim Vice Provost Kenneth O. Miles, 2013-2014
Vice Provost for Diversity Dereck Rovaris Sr. PhD, 2014 - Present
Assistant to the Vice Provost & Director Chaunda Allen, PhD
Administrative Executive Assistant Tarchia Rankins-Lollis, MS
Graduate Assistant Vincent Harris, M.Ed.
COMMUNITY UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP | www.lsu.edu/cup
Community Affairs Liaison & External Partnership Officer
Brandon M. Smith, MPA
LOUISIANA CENTER ADDRESSING SUBSTANCE USE IN COLLEGIATE COMMUNITIES
www.lsu.edu/lacasu
Associate Director Bret Blackmon, MSW
OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS | www.lsu.edu/oma
Director Chaunda Allen, PhD
WOMEN’S CENTER | www.lsu.edu/wc
Director Summer Steib, MA
LSU Diversity Statement
Diversity is fundamental to LSU’s mission and the University is committed
to creating and maintaining a living and learning environment that
embraces individual difference. Cultural inclusion is of highest priority.
LSU recognizes that achieving national prominence depends on the
human spirit, participation, and dedicated work of the entire University
community. Flagship: 2020 will be realized by bringing together diverse
ideas, perspectives, skills, and talents of the nation’s pre-eminent
scholars,brightest students,and leading higher education professionals.
Through its Commitment to Community, LSU strives to create an
inclusive, respectful, intellectually challenging climate that embraces
individual difference in race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual
orientation, gender identity/expression, age, spirituality, socioeconomic
status, disability, family status, experiences, opinions, and ideas.
LSU proactively cultivates and sustains a campus environment that
values open dialogue, cooperation, shared responsibility, mutual
respect, and cultural competence– the driving forces that enrich and
enhance cutting edge research, first-rate teaching, and engaging
community outreach activities.
EDITORS: Chaunda Allen, PhD, Assistant to the Vice Provost & Director
Vincent Harris, M.Ed., Graduate Assistant
Lakeitha Poole, Coordinator of African American Student Affairs
DESIGN & PRINTING: Ricoh @ LSU Mail & Copy Services
ABOUT THIS REPORT
This annual report highlights diversity efforts of Equity, Diversity & Community Outreach and the entire University. This report does not capture all of the outstanding work carried out
by our faculty, staff, and students . We invite readers to visit the LSU homepage, Diversity page, and the website of each college and unit to explore the ways in which we embrace
DIVERSE PEOPLE with DIVERSE TALENTS.
PHOTOS included in this report are courtesy of colleges, departments, Office of Communications and University Relations, The Daily Reveille, and EDCO.
[ ADMINISTRATION ]
4. [ TABLE OF CONTENTS ]
Diverse People. Diverse Talents.
Message from Kenneth O. Miles, Interim Vice Provost .............................................................................................................................. 1
Diversity Data: Undergraduate, Graduate, Faculty & Staff .......................................................................................................................... 2
Campus Wide Highlight Data 2013-2014 .............................................................................................................................................. 3
Equity, Diversity & Community Outreach | Two Years and Counting… LSU Receives Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award for Second
Year in a Row ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Equity, Diversity & Community Outreach | Hello! My Name Is… Inaugural Networking Mixer for Graduate Students, Faculty and Staff of Color ... 5
LSU Black Male Leadership Initiative | BMLI Signing Day 2014: The Impact of the LSU Black Male Leadership Initiative Continues to Grow .... 6
Office of Multicultural Affairs | Lions, Drummers, and Dance … Oh My!: The Inaugural Asian American Cultural Heritage Showcase .............. 7
African American Cultural Center | Jazzy Honors: LSU African American Cultural Center hosted 2nd Annual Jazz Brunch ............................. 8
Women’s Center | We’ve: Got Game!: Celebrating Women of Courage, Character and Commitment ............................................................ 9
Community University Partnership | 12,000 Books and Counting..: Literacy Lagniappe Enters its 3rd year .................................................. 10
Louisiana Center Addressing Substance Use in Collegiate Communities | A Sober Tailgate!: Recovery First Tailgaters Partner with LaCASU to
Provide Alcohol Free Tailgate ................................................................................................................................................................. 11
College Highlights ............................................................................................................................................................................13-18
Department Highlights .................................................................................................................................................................... 19-22
Financials&DiversePerspectives,EDCOUnitSpending2013-2014 ............................................................................................................ 23
LSU Black Male Leadership Initiative & College of Engineering Diversity Programs Partnership Review of LSU BMLI Preview Day 2014 STEM
Data Review (12-17-2014) ................................................................................................................................................................... 24
National Diversity Advisory Board 2013-2014 ................................................................................................................................... 25
Message form Dereck Rovaris Sr. PhD, Vice Provost for Diversity ............................................................................................................. 26
5. “A bird doesn’t sing because it has an answer;
it sings because it has a song.”
- Maya Angelou
Angelou’s quote epitomizes the year 2013-2014…a year of awareness,
transformation, action, excellence, and voice. LSU is definitely singing a
song of praise.
It is my privilege to share the 2013-14 Annual Report of the Office of
Equity, Diversity & Community Outreach (EDCO). This has truly been
another remarkable year. We avoided a mid-year budget cut for the
first time in four years, welcomed seventy new faculty to our campus,
welcomed the third largest freshman class in LSU history, achieving the
highest graduation rate of our students in LSU history and completing the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
reaffirmation and hosting a successful onsite visit. We continued to
expand and improve the completion project of the Women’s Center and
the African American Cultural Center. We reinvigorated the Pre-Doctoral
Scholars Institute and continued to enhancing the programmatic efforts
of the Black Male Leadership Initiative. The Second Annual Lavender
Graduation and the Second Annual Esprit de Femme Sunrise Celebration
were other milestones deserving of praise.The Inaugural Recruitment and
Retention Mixer, sponsored by EDCO, the Black Faculty and Staff Caucus,
and the Black Graduate Professional Student Association, for graduate
students, faculty, and staff of color was well received and praised by our
very own President and Chancellor F. King Alexander whom noted that he
would cover the cost for future years.
We have continued the journey of excellence by transforming lives through
our four goals: discovery, learning, diversity, and engagement. In 1964,
six plaintiffs decided to integrate Louisiana State University. Ironically,
50 years later, we have ground breaking graduation numbers. African-
American graduates increased by 10.5% from the prior year equating
to a 60% graduation rate; Hispanic graduates increased by 10.1% from
the prior year, and women overall increased by 3.5%. Given the socio-
historical context, progress has been made. Our six activists illustrated
that a moral act can have a rippling effect when you sing loud enough to
be heard 50 years later. In commemoration, our activists were honored
at the 2014 African American Robing Ceremony and recognized at the
283rd Commencement.
We are also excited to have added a new National Diversity Advisory
Board (NDAB) member Mr. Bill Brigman, who is retired from the Air Force
and is currently serving as a military policy advisor. Much of his work is
dedicated to diversity and inclusion initiatives and implementation. We
are very fortunate to have him aboard. Sadly, we have lost NDAB member
Ms. Julie Dickinson, one of our founding members. She will be missed,
but her jovial spirit rest with all of us as a change agent, philanthropist,
and an activist.
In sum, I am very proud to say that recruitment and retention of faculty,
staff, and students have been the focus. Admissions are strategically
targeting areas to recruit talented students of color.Black Male Leadership
Initiative is serving its purpose as a peer advising retention model and
academic deans are strategically recruiting diverse faculty members.
These accomplishments are just the beginning of the transformation.
As you peruse our annual report, you will start singing the song of
transforming lives, action, and excellence.
Kenneth O. Miles
Interim Vice Provost
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 1
6. 2
DIVERSITY DATA
2013-2014 University Data
Ethnic
Minority 18.10%
Undergraduate
Resident v.
Non-Resident:
Faculty Diversity Data
(U.S. underrepresented groups)
Black/African American- 52
Asian- 128
Hispanic/Latino- 37
American Indian/Alaska Native- 3
Two or More Races- 3
Total- 223
International- 40
Unknown- 13
Total- 53
Total- 955
Total: 24,931
74.8%
v. 25.2%
Undergraduate
Student Diversity
White,
Non-Hispanic
75.5%
(18,820)
11.12%
(2,774)
4.9%
(1,245)
3.4%
(851)
2.3%
(569)1.8%
(458)
0.40%
(100)
0.34%(86)
Hispanic or
Latina/o
International
Unknown
American Indian/
Alaska Native
Black or
African American
Asian
Two or
More Races
0.11% (28)
Native Hawaiian
or Other Pacific
Islander
Graduate Student
Diversity
Data
U.S. underrepresented groups: Black/African American,
Asian, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian/Alaska Native, Two
or More Races
Ethnic
Minority:
(U.S. underrepresented groups)
15.8%
(779)
White: 58.8%
(2,902)
International: 23.0%
(1,135)
Unknown: 2.4%
(118)
International/
Unknown 4.30%
White/ 77.5%
7. College with highest concentration
of Hispanic faculty?
Humanities & Social Sciences- 35%
*Both men and women only among all ethnic faculty within college
Top Colleges for new women hires?
Veterinary Medicine- 57.1%
Humanities & Social Sciences- 55.5%
Mass Communication- 50%
*Only women among Fall 2014 new faculty hires within each college
Departments with highest concentration
of women faculty?
Human Sciences & Education- 63.6%
Agriculture- 51.2%
Mass Communication- 48.8%
Humanities & Social Sciences- 47.6%
Art & Design- 41.8%
CAMPUS WIDE HIGHLIGHT DATA
2013-2014
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 3
8. 4
EQUITY, DIVERSITY & COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Two Years and Counting… LSU Receives Higher Education Excellence
in Diversity Award for Second Year in a Row
LSU received the 2013 Higher Education Excellence in
Diversity, or HEED, award from INSIGHT Into Diversity
magazine, the oldest and largest diversity-focused
publication in higher education. This is the second
year LSU has been named as a HEED Award recipient.
As a recipient of the annual HEED Award – a national
honor recognizing U.S. colleges and universities that
demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity
and inclusion – LSU was featured along with 55
other recipients in INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine’s
November 2013 issue.
“One of our goals as a university is to strengthen the
intellectual environment by broadening the cultural
diversity of the LSU community, and we are pleased
that INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine has once again
recognized our diversity efforts,” said LSU Executive
Vice Chancellor & Provost Stuart Bell. “This award
is a testament to the hard work and commitment of
our faculty, staff and students to having a culturally
diverse and welcoming campus for people of all
backgrounds.”
INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine selected LSU based
on exemplary diversity and inclusion initiatives, and
ability to embrace a broad definition of diversity on
campus, including gender, race, ethnicity, veterans,
people with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ
community.
For more information + www.insightintodiversity.com.
“We hope the HEED award serves as a way to honor those institutions of higher education that
recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion as part of their everyday campus culture,” said
Lenore Pearlstein, publisher of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.
9. EQUITY, DIVERSITY & COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Hello! My Name Is… Inaugural Networking Mixer for Graduate
Students, Faculty and Staff of Color
The LSU Black Graduate and Professional Student
Association, or BGPSA; Black Faculty and Staff
Caucus,or BFSC; and EDCO,hosted the inaugural Fall
Mixer for graduate students, faculty and staff of color.
The event was held in the recently opened African
American Cultural Center, and served as a networking
opportunity for LSU students, faculty and staff.
“The purpose of the Fall Mixer was to create a sense
of family for our graduate students, faculty and staff
of color,” said Interim Vice Provost for EDCO Kenneth
O. Miles. University President and Chancellor F. King
Alexander was in attendance. He shared words of
encouragement and addressed the audience on the
importance of the Fall Mixer, and how he aims to help
support this and other programs that bring together
LSU’s student, faculty and staff of color.
Randy Fontenot,Assistant Director for LSU’s First Year
Experience and president of the BFSC at LSU, shared
the importance of investing in the African American
CulturalCenter. Fontenotpresentedaspecialdonation
on behalf of a group within BFSC called the “GROUP
100” to the African American Cultural Center to aid in
sustaining the mission and goals of the Center.
The importance of events like the Fall Mixer is clear.
Not only did the mixer create an opportunity for
networking, but also created a family atmosphere for
faculty, staff and students of color from all areas of
LSU.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/diversity
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 5
Members of the LSU Black Faculty and Staff Caucus, Interim Vice Provost of EDCO Ken Miles, Director of
the Office of Multicultural Affairs Dr. Chaunda Allen Mitchell, LSU President and Chancellor F. King Alexander,
and President of the LSU Black Graduate & Professional Student Association (LSU BGPSA) Kourtney Gray.
Representatives of the LSU Black Graduate & Professional Student Association (LSU BGPSA) with President
and Chancellor F. King Alexander.
10. 6
LSU BLACK MALE LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE
BMLI Signing Day 2014: The Impact of the
LSU Black Male Leadership Initiative Continues to Grow
As of spring 2013, the LSU-BMLI Fellows
Program average GPA of 2.908 surpassed the
LSU all-male undergraduate average by over
one tenth-of-a-point. LSU-BMLI is deliberate in
its programming efforts to prepare and expose
Fellows to reputable national and international
research opportunities resulting in seven McNair
Scholars and four participants in national and
international competitive research programs.
This year in recognition of graduating LSU
seniors, or BMLI Alumni Fellows, the inaugural
“BMLI Signing Day for Alumni Fellows” was
established. The purpose of this new initiative
is to demystify stereotypes associated with Black
males only being “drafted” after college for their
athleticism. With this new initiative BMLI has
chosen to redefine “Signing Day” by highlighting
the post-graduate academic accomplishments
of BMLI Alumni Fellows.
During the inaugural BMLI Signing Day each
Alumni Fellow revealed which graduate or
professional school they were attending by
placing on a hat of their selected college or
university. Six -out of- ten BMLI Alumni Fellows
who graduated from LSU in May 2014 are
continuing their education at some of the nation’s
most elite graduate programs.
LSU-BMLI alum(s): Charles Lewis, a native of
Stone Mountain, GA., graduated with degree
in both microbiology and Spanish, is attending
Boston University Dental School in Boston;
Nickholas J. Grant, a native of New Orleans,
graduated with a degree in psychology, is
attending the University of Illinois at Urbana
Champaign to pursue a doctorate in clinical
psychology as a National Science Foundation
Fellow with $132,000 awarded to support his
graduate studies; De-Andre T. Beadle, a native
of Houston, graduated with a degree in political
science and psychology, recognized by the
Office of the Dean of Students as one of twelve
outstanding seniors as a member of the 2014
Class of“TigerTwelve,”is attending the University
of Arkansas to pursue a doctorate in Psychology;
Derrick D. Lathan, a native of Baton Rouge,
graduated with a degree in graphic design, is
attending LSU to pursue a doctor of philosophy
degree in sociology; Ramon Hardy, a native of
St. Francisville, LA., graduated with a degree in
mass communication, is attending LSU to pursue
a Master’s in business administration; Karrdero
Dixon, a native of Houma, LA., graduated with a
degreeinkinesiology,isattendingLSUShreveport
to pursue a Master’s in biological sciences; and
Isaiah Woodson, a native of Richmond, VA.,
graduated with a degree in chemical engineering,
has chosen to defer a year of graduate school to
participate in an extended research internship at
Petroleum Institute in Abu Dhabi.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/bmli
As of May 2014 graduation, 4 out of 10 BMLI alumni continuing their education at some of the nation’s most elite graduate and research programs
11. Van Hanh Lion Dance Company from New Orleans performing at the 2014 Cultural Heritage Showcase
OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL AFFAIRS
Lions, Drummers, and Dance… Oh My!:
The Inaugural Asian American Cultural Heritage Showcase
In the summer of 2013 the Asian American Ambassadors
or AAA became a registered student organization at
LSU and was established for the purpose of building
a community of students who support and promote the
education, histories, cultures, and traditions of all Asian
Americans. On March 28, 2014 in the Cotillion Ballroom
of the LSU Student Union the AAA hosted their inaugural
Asian American Cultural Heritage Showcase.
The purpose of the showcase was to create a vision and
meaningful representation for all Asian cultures on LSU’s
campus. Throughout the program, brief histories of
different Asian cultures were presented to the audience.
The performers, all LSU students, included musical
performances from Jennifer Kim and Jourdan Ooi, a
traditional and modern fusion Indian dance from Aamani
Kura, and martial art performances from Tim O’Young
and Nathan Wang. The audience also had the opportunity
to see the beautiful traditional and variety of attires from
multiple Asian countries such as India, South Korea,
Vietnam, Malaysia, China, Japan, and the Philippines.
During intermission, the audience enjoyed eating assorted
Asian inspired food provided by LSU Dining.
The showcase finale featured the performance of a
traditional Lion dance performed by the Van Hanh Lion
Dance Company from New Orleans. The dance consisted
of a monkey, a man, several drummers, and two colorfully
lit lions.The audience experienced the dance up close and
personal with the performers going through the aisles of
the Cotillion Ballroom.
For information on how to participate in other AAA programs please
email aaa@lsu.edu.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/oma
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 7
Representatives of the Asian American Ambassadors before the 2014 Cultural Heritage Showcase
12. Jazz Brunch helps the AACC Celebrate 20 years of contin-
ued impact in the LSU and local Baton Rouge community.
8
AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER
Jazzy Honors: LSU African American Cultural
Center hosted 2nd Annual Jazz Brunch
On Saturday,February 22,2014,the LSUAfricanAmerican Cultural Center orAACC hosted its 2nd
Annual Jazz Brunch as a part of its university-wide Black History Month (BHM) Celebration and
to honor distinguished faculty and staff whose efforts throughout the years have contributed
to the growth and success of the Cultural Center. The Brunch included live music, food and
fellowship. As the Center continues to celebrate its 20+ year history, proceeds of the Brunch
benefited the newly renovated AACC.
Throughout the event, the campus and community were invited to learn more about
the current resources and initiatives provided by the Center and to continue to support
the vision for the future. The LSU African American Cultural Center’s Jazz Brunch also
provides alumni and friends with an opportunity to celebrate Black History Month, learn
more about the AACC, and become introduced or reacquainted with The 55 Society.
Since reopening in May 2013, the AACC has been able to provide more services for the
campus and community. The more than 5,600 square foot space boasts six offices, a
courtyard, large and small multipurpose rooms, break room, library and artifact room,
three restrooms and a changing room. As the only free standing African American
Cultural Center in the state of Louisiana, the AACC remains one of the most precious
jewels of the university as it prepares to serve a new generation of students and
paves the way for a prosperous future.
2014 INAUGURAL AWARD RECIPIENTS:
• Carolyn Collins - African American Cultural Center Legacy Award Recipient
Former Dean, University College
• Thomas Durant - African American Cultural Center Legacy Award Recipient
Professor Emeritus of Sociology
• Emilia Gilbert - Nia Award Recipient
Director of Development, College of Science
• Brandon Smith - Umoja Award Recipient
Community Affairs Liaison and External Partnerships Officer
• Vincent Harris - Kuumba Award Recipient
Graduate Coordinator, LSU Black Male Leadership Initiative
For information please contact LaKeitha Poole, Coordinator for African American Student Affairs
at 225-578-1627 or aacc@lsu.edu.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/aacc
13. : 2014 participants share a photo moment at a LSU Lady Tigers Softball game
WOMEN’S CENTER
We’ve Got Game!: Celebrating Women
of Courage, Character and Commitment
In March of each year the LSU Women’s
Center celebrates Women’s History Month
by hosting and cosponsoring a variety of
programs at LSU and in the community.
The theme for Women’s History Month for
2014 was Celebrating Women of Courage,
Character and Commitment. In order to
highlight this theme, the Women’s Center
partnered with the Cox Communications
Academic Center for Student Athletes to
host two “We’ve Got Game” events.
“We’ve Got Game” is an initiative to get
more students, faculty, staff and community
engaged in women’s athletics at LSU by
inviting participants to attend sporting
events. We’ve Got Game attendees
attended pre-game receptions, received VIP
seating, and enjoyed amazing victories by
the LSU Gymnastics Team and the LSU Lady
Tigers Softball Team. The majority of the
participants had never attended a women’s
sporting event at LSU before participating in
“We’ve Got Game.”
For information on the Women’s History Month events,
please contact Summer Stieb, Director, LSU Women’s
Center, at 225-578-7563.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/wc
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 9
14. Brandon Smith, Community Affairs liaison and external
partnerships officer shares story with classroom
Group photo of the Buchanan Elementary End of Year Literacy Lagniappe Celebration
10
COMMUNITY UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP
12,000 Books and Counting...: Literacy Lagniappe Enters its 3rd
Year
Since 2012, the LSU Community University
Partnership (CUP) has successfully implemented
the Literacy Lagniappe program to increase
the literacy rates of children within the OSBR
community. “Lagniappe” (pronounced lan-yap)
is a Louisiana term that means something
“extra” given or obtained gratuitously or by way
of good measure.
Literacy Lagniappe was launched with funding
from the Dollar General Literacy Foundation
and sustained with support from Target®. The
program improves the reading performance
of at-risk readers and strives to increase the
amount of reading completed by students by
offering incentives for reaching reading goals.
The overarching objective of the program is to
assist students in developing a lifelong love for
reading, paving the way to their future success.
Literacy Lagniappe completed its second run at
Buchanan Elementary. Susan Bell, wife of LSU
Vice Chancellor and Provost Stuart Bell, serves
as Honorary Chair.
Individually, students are rewarded for reaching
various reading goals throughout the academic
year. Incentives have included water bottles,
bracelets, and free dress days to name a few.
Classrooms are also recognized for their whole-
class literacy rate improvements and reading
the most books (from each grade level). While
the students are rewarded throughout the
academic year from reaching various goals,
the main attraction is the Literacy Lagniappe
End of Year Celebration, where the totality of
the student’s efforts are recognized with an
opportunity to win large prizes, such as bicycles
and passes to the local Blue Bayou Waterpark.
In the end, the encouragement and incentives
sparked a passion through the entire school.
In the 2012-2013 academic year, nearly 500
students read over 11,000 books! In the
second year of the program, Buchanan students
read over 12,000 books collectively!
This program design provides teachers and
students with tools to successfully increase
literacy performance. Literacy Lagniappe also
incorporates technology is a unique and fun
way for students to accept the challenge to
grow as readers, making it enjoyable and
interactive. Through the grant, CUP has been
able to enhance existing computer resources
in the classrooms. Finally, books have been
purchased to expand library selections for all
students.
For information on how to participate in this and other
CUP initiatives, please contact the LSU Community
University Partnership at lsucup@lsu.edu or call
225-578-8699.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/cup
15. Tailgaters enjoying a sober environment during the Recovery First Tailgaters Experience
The Alcoholics Anonymous and Students in Recovery First Tailgaters grabbing a bite to eat
LOUISIANA CENTER ADDRESSING SUBSTANCE USE
IN COLLEGIATE COMMUNITIES (LACASU)
A Sober Tailgate!: Recovery First Tailgaters Partner
with LaCASU to Provide Alcohol Free Tailgate
Over the last year, the LaCASU office partnered with
the Dean of Students Office and Office of Disability
Services to launch weekly campus-hosted Alcoholics
Anonymous (AA) and Students in Recovery Support Group
meetings. In addition to offering this campus-generated
resource, LaCASU has fostered a great relationship with
the Recovery First Tailgaters entity of St. Christopher’s
Addiction Wellness Center. Recovery First Tailgaters
provides a sober, free, first-rate tailgate experience for all
LSU home games and multiple away games that are all
open to the general public.
The recovery resources at LSU garnered the attention
of several media outlets resulting in multiple stories in
The Daily Reveille, a segment on NBC News 33 and an
interview with Karen Henderson and Kevin Meeks on
Baton Rouge’s WJBO radio station.
The campus-sponsored AA meetings take place every
Wednesday from 7-8 PM in the Tchoupitoulas Room of
the Student Union and the Students In Recovery Support
Group meets on Mondays from 2-3 pm in room 333-C of
the Student Union.
For information on how to participate in this and other LaCASU
programs, please contact LaCASU at lacasu@lsu.edu or call
225-578-5958.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/LaCasu
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 11
16. 12
STUDENT HIGHLIGHT: MARKITA LEWIS
A Nutritious Honor
Fifty-three graduating LSU seniors with the
highest grade-point averages in the spring
2014 class received the University Medal
during a ceremony on May 15 in the LSU Union
Theater. The ceremony was held as part of the
university’s 283rd commencement exercises.
The graduating medalists were also recognized
during the main commencement ceremony,
held in the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.
“I have had a positive experience at LSU
and within the College of Agriculture. I have
achieved more than my high school self would
have ever imagined; I have made great bonds
and relationships with people from various
backgrounds; and I have found a place where
I can make a difference to people”—Markita
Lewis, nutrition and food sciences major
The University Medal represents the “Highest
Academic Achievement” awarded to the
undergraduate students graduating with the
highest GPA,provided that more than 50 percent
of the credits required for the degree has been
earned at LSU-BR. Grade point averages are
computed for (1) all work completed and (2) all
work completed at LSU-BR, with the lower of
the two averages determining eligibility for the
medal.
Portions of the story courtesy of:LSU College ofAgriculture,
LSU Media Center, and the LSU General Catalogue.
Markita Lewis receiving her University Medal at the Spring 2014 LSU commencement ceremony.
17. [ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 13
LSU CAMPUS LIFE
Night of Pozitivity Leads to Change in Character!
LSU Campus Life hosted A “Night of Pozitivity”
with Project Runway, HIV/AIDS activist Mondo
Guerra.” This program helped to raise awareness
in the campus community about the ongoing issue
of HIV/AIDS infection rates. In March 2013, the
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
identified Baton Rouge as having the highest
per capita rates of AIDS cases in the U.S. for
the second straight year. Following the program,
several Baton Rouge organizations provided
information about local HIV/AIDS resource
agencies and clinics, volunteer opportunities and
ongoing programs that serve the needs of those
affected by HIV/AIDS.
Guerra finished as the runner-up on season eight
of Lifetime’s “Project Runway.” Viewers saw his
tearful disclosure of his HIV-positive status on the
runway after being asked about the inspiration for
his original textile creation featuring plus signs. In
2012, Guerra claimed victory on the debut season
of Lifetime’s “Project Runway All Stars.”
While Guerra’s innovative style and bold designs
have captured the fashion world’s imagination, his
work in HIV/AIDS education has helped continue
the important conversation about the epidemic.
He spoke about his experiences as an HIV-positive
male, why social stigmas caused him to keep
his illness a secret for so long, how to reduce
chances of contracting the virus, and the physical
and mental effects of HIV. Collaborators included
Southern University HIV/AIDS Prevention Program
and HAART.
Raising the campus awareness of critical
issues continued as Campus Life partnered
with Characters Unite of USA Networks. The
Character’s Unite Tour is a campaign against
prejudice and discrimination. Travelling to college
campuses across the nation in an RV to give
college students an opportunity to stand up
against discrimination by letting the world know
what type of prejudice they won’t stand for, the
campaign is focused on social media as a way
to stand up against discrimination. The activation
included a photo booth where guests could take
their photo to stand up against discrimination and
t-shirt stamping station. Over 900 LSU students
participated in the Characters Unite Tour.
For information on Campus Life programming contact
Jacob Brumfield at jbrum@lsu.edu or Craig Marcus at
cmarcus@lsu.edu.
For more information + www.lsu.edu/campuslife -AND-
join.charactersunite.com
LSU Campus Life student leaders pose with Project Runway All Star Winner and HIV/AIDS activist Mondo Guerra
18. 14
THE COLLEGE OF MUSIC & DRAMATIC ARTS
The At the Crossroads of Imagination & Culture
The College of Music and Dramatic Arts’
Department of Theatre hosted two companion
conferences: Praise at the Crossroads: Cultural
Intersections in Literary and Artistic Works and
The Diasporic Imagination on March 28 and 29,
2014 at the Music and Dramatic Arts Building.
Praise at the Crossroads was co-presented by
the Department of Theatre, the Department
of English and the African American Studies
and Comparative Literature programs. This
one-day conference explored transcultural
connections of literary and artistic production
connecting Africa, Europe, and the Americas.
The conference focused scholarly discussion
and inquiry on the works of authors and artists
that reflect “the crossroads” in their writings by
transplanting aspects of one world into another
with an emphasis on writers of Africa and the
African Diaspora with a particular emphasis
on the scholarly and artistic work of Louise
and Kenneth Kinney Professor of Theatre and
English Femi Euba.
Featured guests at the conference was Nigerian
playwright and Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka,
Dr. Euba and Biodun Jeyifo (Harvard University),
Omofolabo Ajayi-Soyinka (University of Kansas),
and John Lowe (University of Georgia).
The Diasporic Imagination held on Saturday,
March 29th
explored the intersection of
communities with origins in West Africa and the
Caribbean, as it is reflected in new writing for
the stage and live performance.The Department
of Theatre was pleased to have the opportunity
to co-present this conference with NoPassport,
an artist-driven, grass-roots theatre alliance &
press devoted to cross-cultural, Pan-American
performance, theory, action, advocacy, and
publication. LSU Theatre Ph.D. student Eric
Mayer-Garcia served as the on-site coordinator
of the event.
For information on The College of Music and Dramatic
Arts’ or how to participate in Department of Theatre
companion conferences please email Kristin Sosnowsky
at ksosno1@lsu.edu
For more information + www.cmda.lsu.edu
Praise of the Crossroads Conference, Studio Theatre, MDA Building, March 28, 2014 from left to right:
Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, Biodun Jeyifo (Harvard University), Louise and Kenneth Kinney Professor
of Theatre and English Dr. Femi Euba
19. COLLEGE OF HUMAN SCIENCES & EDUCATION
New LGBTQ Minor Gets National Attention
In the Fall of 2014, the CHSE School of Social Work
passed a 18-credit-hour minor in Lesbian, Gay,
Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer studies creating the
LGBTQ minor program. School of Social Work associate
professor Elaine M. Maccio, designed the program.
“A few years ago, I recognized in LSU’s curriculum a
paucity of courses on sexuality in general, and a gap
regarding LGBTQ – lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender
and queer – topics in particular,” said Maccio.
“Since a number of colleges and universities around the
country already have courses, minors, majors and even
entire departments and research centers dedicated to
LGBTQ topics, I knew LSU needed to have something
similar if we wanted to remain competitive,” Maccio
said.
The minor will raise students’ self-awareness, challenge
their stereotypes, broaden their understanding of human
diversity, and develop their cultural sensitivity along the
spectrum of sexual and gender orientations, identities,
and expressions.
For information on the LGBTQ Minor please email Elaine Maccio at
emaccio@lsu.edu
For more information + www.chse.lsu.edu
[This highlight was adapted from a published USA Today Article:
Jones, J. (2014, October 1). Louisiana State University introduces
new LGBT minor, Voices From Campus. USA Today. Retrieved March
3, 2015, from http://college.usatoday.com/2014/10/01/louisiana-
state-university-introduces-new-lgbt-minor/]
Elaine Maccio with her students
[ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 15
20. 16
COLLEGE OF HUMAN SCIENCES & EDUCATION
The ABCs of Outreach: LSU CHSE’ Dedicate Several
Programs to Local and International Outreach
The College of Human Sciences and Education (LSU CHSE) has several
programs highlighting our diversity initiatives including reducing youth
violence in impoverished areas, providing safe routes to school for students
in our local communities, and partnering with the Colegio Concepcion in
San Pedro de la Paz Chile to increase LSU’s international footprint.
The BRAVE Program increases LSU CHSE faculty impact by helping give
law enforcement support as they work to assist youth in gangs and families
in communities to restore peace in local neighborhoods. Baton Rouge
Area Violence Elimination (BRAVE) Project (Department of Justice, 2012-
2016) is meant to reduce youth violence and gun offenses and arrests in
some of the most violent, impoverished areas of the city where the most
vulnerable populations become victims (i.e., elderly, impoverished, women,
and children).
LSU CHSE faculty and LSU students also work with local law enforcement
officials to provide bicycle safety instruction to students in these schools.
The Safe Routes to School Program serves Polk and Buchanan Elementary
Schools. LSU students from KIN 1802 and KIN 4606 work to promote
walking and cycling to school and in the community. Polk and Buchanan
Elementary are largely African American, high poverty schools. By helping
students learn how to walk and ride safely to school, we can increase their
physical activity and well-being.
CHSE Faculty Ken Denny, Margaret Denny, and Kenny Fasching-Varner have
secured a partnership with the Colegio Concepcion in San Pedro de la Paz
Chile to increase LSU’s international footprint. In this unique partnership,
the Colegio Concepcion in San Pedro de la Paz Chile, the LSU College
of Agriculture, LSU College of Human Sciences & Education, and LSU
School of the Coast & Environment came together to offer LSU students
an unprecedented study abroad opportunity in Chile. The Teaching in Chile
Experience is co-directed by School of Education’s Ken Denny, Margaret
Denny, and Kenny Fasching-Varner. LSU students will learn about coastal
restoration initiatives, second language learners, and STEM efforts focused
on the environment while exploring a different country and culture.
For information on BRAVE Contact Cecile Guin at cguin@lsu.edu, for information on The
Safe Routes to School Program Contact Birgitta Baker at bbaker@lsu.edu or Emily Beasley
at beasley@lsu.edu, and for information on the Chile Program Contact Kenny Varner at
varner@lsu.edu
For more information + www.chse.lsu.edu
Members of the BRAVE Program working
alongside LSU CHSE faculty
One of the Safe Routes to School
volunteer officers helping a young
elementary school student learn
how to ride with safety
LSU CHSE Student teaching English to young students in San Pedro de la Paz Chile
21. [ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 17
LSU PRESS
“A Colorful His-Story:” LSU Press Promotes
Diversity Through Scholarly Publications
LSU Press promoted social equality and
fostered diversity in a variety of ways, including
publishing Marcus Cox’s Segregated Soldiers:
Military Training at Historically Black Colleges in
the Jim Crow South, a book that demonstrates
how military training programs at historically
black universities became an important
factor in the struggle for civil rights. Using
Southern University—one of the largest African
American institutions of higher learning—as
a case study, Cox shows how Blacks’ interest
in military training and service continued to
rise steadily throughout the twentieth century
because many believed that service in the
armed forces represented the best way to
advance themselves in a society in which racial
discrimination flourished.
LSU Press also published James Marshall’s
Student Activism and Civil Rights in Mississippi:
Protest Politics and the Struggle for Racial
Justice, 1960-1965. Marshall, a former civil
rights activist, tells the complete story of the
quest for racial equality in Mississippi. Using a
variety of sources as well as his own memories,
Marshall weaves together an astonishing
account of student protestors and local activists
who risked their lives by fighting against
southern resistance and federal inaction. Their
efforts, and the horrific violence inflicted on
them, helped push many non-southerners and
the federal government into action, culminating
in the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act
and the 1965 Voting Rights Act—measures
that destroyed legalized segregation and
disfranchisement.
To foster civic engagement, the Press released
several books that were of widespread interest
to Louisianans. One title that is emblematic of
that engagement is Joshua Caffery’s Traditional
Music in Coastal Louisiana: The 1934 Lomax
Recordings, a book that traces John and Alan
Lomax’s trip into the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun
countryduringtheheightoftheGreatDepression
to record and document indigenous Louisiana
music. Publishing books that contribute to
social and gender equality, diversity, and civic
engagement has always been critical to the
mission of LSU Press. Over the past year the
Press has upheld this longstanding tradition by
publishing an array of titles that advance these
goals.
For information on LSU Press or for more information on
these and other published titles please email Rand Dotson
at pdotso1@lsu.edu
For more information + www.lsupress.org
Marcus Cox’s Segregated Soldiers: Military
Training at Historically Black Colleges in the
Jim Crow South
Joshua Caffery’s Traditional Music in Coastal
Louisiana: The 1934 Lomax Recordings
James Marshall’s Student Activism and Civil
Rights in Mississippi: Protest Politics and
the Struggle for Racial Justice, 1960-1965.
22. 18
LSU University College’s McNair Research
Scholars, in partnership with the LSU Women’s
Center, hosted one of the first campus-wide
events celebrating LSU Discover and the LSU
community’s reinvigorated commitment to
undergraduate research. Arielle Brown, an
undergraduatepsychologymajorandCassandra
Chaney, PhD presented “Is Black Motherhood a
Marker of Oppression or Empowerment? Hip-
Hop and R&B Lessons About ‘Mama’.”
“This research brings to light the strength of
black mothers,” said Cassandra Chaney, PhD,
associate professor of child and family studies
in LSU’s School of Social Work. “Whether
it’s R&B or hip-hop, I definitely think that our
theme really identifies that. Societally, black
women are most likely to be heading single-
parent households. Of course, there are a lot
of challenges associated with that reality. But,
at the same time, I think that the song lyrics we
analyzed really speaks to the strength of these
women, as well as the support that they often
times receive in their role as single parents.”
Chaney noted that the McNair Research
Scholars program provided her the opportunity
to acclimate Brown to the methodologies
associated with qualitative methods, as well as
a greater understanding of the impetus behind
academic writing.
“I’m a psychology major,so most of the methods
that we use are quantitative,” said Arielle Brown.
“It’s rare that you run across a qualitative
experiment or study within psychology, unless
it’s morphed with another field. But, working
with Dr. Chaney definitely helped me to explore
the qualitative analysis in method and research
because I was not familiar with it at all. My
previous project touched on it a little bit, but not
to this degree. With Dr. Chaney, we weren’t just
writing and doing the study, we were aiming for
publication. I learned how to create a study and
write a manuscript, seeking guidelines from
journal editor and making suggested revisions. I
really learned a lot.”
Today, Brown, a LSU ’14 graduate and Tiger
Twelve award recipient, is enrolled in the
Psychology PhD program at University of
Illinois-Urbana, where she was offered a
teaching fellowship totaling more than $60,000
per year in tuition and stipend. The goal of LSU
University College’s McNair Research Scholars
is to increase attainment of PhD degrees by
students from underrepresented segments of
society. Students participate in undergraduate
research projects and are supervised by
faculty and research mentors from a variety
of disciplines, giving them an abundance of
individual time working with experts in their
chosen fields.
McNair Research Scholars is funded through
the U.S. Department of Education TRIO
Programs. LSU has three TRIO Programs –
McNair Research Scholars, Student Support
Services and Upward Bound – whose combined
efforts bring more than $850,000 of annual
federal funding for the purpose of supporting
postsecondary education opportunities at LSU
and in the Baton Rouge community.
For information on how to participate LSU University
College’s McNair Research Scholars projects please email
Joseph R. Givens at givens@lsu.edu
For more information + www.design.lsu.edu/mcnair
LSU UNIVERSITY COLLEGE’S MCNAIR RESEARCH SCHOLARS
Hip-Hop and R&B Lessons About ‘Mama.’
Arielle Brown, was paired with LSU School of Social Work Professor Cassandra Chaney through
LSU University College’s Ronald E. McNair Research Scholars program, which pairs undergraduate
researchers with faculty mentors.
Brown, a LSU ’14 graduate and Tiger Twelve award recipient, is enrolled in the
Psychology PhD program at University of Illinois-Urbana.
23. [ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 19
CENTER FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS
Proven Results: CAS’ Proves their Services Increase Retention Rates!
Center for Academic Success’ services have
been shown to effectively increase GPAs and
retention for all students who consistently utilize
tutoring, Supplemental Instruction, workshops
and consultations. In order to gain a deeper
insight into the value of our services, the CAS
staff began a longitudinal research project that
investigates the effect of academic support on
the success of various student populations.
Several variables were examined including race
and socioeconomic status.
Data from the 2012 first-year cohort show that
African-American and Pell Eligible students who
use tutoring or attend Supplemental Instruction
sessions had a retention rate of 82% and 86%
respectively, while those that did not use either
service had a 77% retention rate. Results are
promising as the use of CAS services raises the
retention rate of African Americans and Pell-
Eligible students to that of the cohort average of
83.5%. CAS helps to level the academic playing
field by increasing confidence and strengthening
campus integration for our students. This
information validates the importance of
promoting academic support in each program
that targets underrepresented populations.
Future studies will include gender to further
explore race, gender and class intersectionality
in the context of academic support.
For information on the Center for Academic Success
Diversity Retention Study or to participate in any CAS
initiatives please email Erin Wheeler at ewheel6@lsu.edu.
For more information +www.CAS.lsu.edu
Students participating in an Organic Chemistry Supplemental Instruction session.
24. 20
Jeanette Feinberg (left, B. Arch ’14) and Eva Rodriguez (right, B. Arch
’14) present a model to Pastor Dale Flowers of New Sunlight Baptist
Church (pointing to model), Sam Sanders, Executive Director of the Mid
City Redevelopment Alliance and Chip Boyles, former Vice President of
Programs and Administration for the East Baton Rouge Redevelopment
Authority.
Along with several classmates, Eva Rodriguez (B.Arch ’14) interviewed
a number of Mid City residents to learn more about the neighborhood
and understand pressing issues; she is pictured here with two
neighbors in front of their homes.
LSU’s School of Architecture established
its Mid City Studio in 2012, as a
collaborative, service-learning studio in
the undergraduate architecture program.
The studio aligns with a variety of non-
profits, government agencies, churches
and businesses each year to define and
develop relevant, responsive projects
that address issues we confront as a
contemporary society. The studio aims to
expose students to the critical role they
will play as professionals in their own
communities through thoughtful design,
public engagement and collaboration.
In the Fall of 2013, students worked
with community leaders to better
understand problems with food access
and homelessness facing a neighborhood
near the Kansas City Rail line at North
Boulevard. They worked with local officials
and a variety of community partners to
develop ideas for a market and café. The
project would not only serve neighborhood
residents, but also act as a workforce
development program through the Society
of St. Vincent de Paul to serve the heavy
homeless population in Mid City. The
students worked closely with St. Vincent
de Paul to assess their current needs and
document a piece of property on North
Boulevard that the organization recently
acquired.
Students designed and hosted a
community engagement event and built a
series of engagement panels (see images)
that were deployed into the community
to raise awareness about food access
and homelessness issues. To reinforce
sustainability, students were tasked to
repurpose the panels to present their
designs to the public during White Light
Night last November.
Good architecture is driven by a fervent
relationship with its culture, history and
people, followed by belief in the ability
of humans to better their communities
without blockbuster budgets or unbridled
new development.This is why we value the
experienceofcommunityworkintheSchool
of Architecture and believe it is a critical
part of the education of our society’s future
architects. ProgramPartnersincluded: The
Mid City Redevelopment Alliance, The East
Baton Rouge Redevelopment Authority,
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and
New Sunlight Baptist Church. Program
Sponsors included: Robert A. Neilson,
Highland Hardware, Tipton Associates,
Home Depot, Taylor Clark Gallery, Lowes,
Co-Op Bookstore, Albertsons, Raising
Canes, Dr. Jeijei Feinberg, Piggly Wiggly,
Margaret Heffron CPA, and Arnold &
Associates Interiors, Inc.
For information on how to participate in future Mid
City Studio projects please email William J. Doran at
wdoran@lsu.edu
For more information + www.design.lsu.edu
LSU SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE
Designing Our Communities As They Should Be
25. [ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 21
LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
Birds of a Feather Flock Together: LSU School of Veterinary
Medicine Host Regional DiVersity Matters Symposium
The biennial symposium which rotates among
the seven veterinary medical schools in the
southeast region; the Southeast Regional
DiVersity Matters Symposium was at the
School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana
State University on April 11-13, 2014. This
symposiumbroughttogetherveterinarystudents
throughout the region to discuss a wide range
of diversity issues, including diversity within
higher education and veterinary medicine, the
impact of diversity on the business of veterinary
medicine, cultural competency in health care,
and disability.
Regional symposia convene leaders who
discuss methods for creating more sustainable
and appropriate workplace and educational
environments in academic veterinary medicine.
The meeting was the largest regional meeting
to date with 120 attendees representing 12
different universities.
Sponsored primarily by Zoetis, the two-day
symposiumfeaturedpresentationsfromavariety
of experts and focused broadly on diversity and
inclusion and on disability as a diversity with
a focus on the creation of more supportive
environments for individuals with disabilities.
More than a dozen individual presentations and
panel discussions were presented. A variety
of university experts, practitioners, former
students and other officials discussed strategies
for creating more appropriate environments
for individuals with disabilities. The meeting
concluded with breakout sessions, reports and
suggestions for future strategies. Symposium
sponsors included– Zoetis Animal Health,
VOICE, American Association of Veterinary
Medical Colleges, American Veterinary Medical
Association, Texas A&M University, and
Louisiana State University.
For information about the DiVersity Matters Symposium or
other diversity initiatives of the at the School of Veterinary
Medicine, at LSU please email Dr. Joseph Taboada at
jtaboada@vetmed.lsu.edu or Dr. Annie Daniel at
Annied@lsu.edu
For more information + www.vetmed.lsu.edu
PART 1: 4TH BIENNIAL SOUTHEAST REGIONAL DIVERSITY MATTERS SYMPOSIUM @ LSU
President: Sabina Sheppard - Texas A&M University
*Vice-President: Kimiko Dixon - Louisiana State University (center in red jacket)
Treasurer: Brock Christianson - University of Wisconsin-Madison
SAVMA Liaison: Amy Ramos - Auburn University
Past President: Jasmine Coe - Purdue University
Advisor: Lisa Greenhill
The LSU Student Chapter of V.O.I.C.E. partners with the SVM. V.O.I.C.E.
is a student organization that addresses a need for sociocultural
awareness to subsidize the lack of current core veterinary curriculum
relating to sociocultural issues.
The goals of the LSU chapter of V.O.I.C.E. are to sustain a unified
student voice contributing to enhancing the diversity of the profession
and the cultural competence of veterinary students.
Ms. Kimiko Dixon (past President of the LSU Chapter, a founding officer)
served as the national Vice-President of V.O.I.C.E. representing the LSU
School of Veterinary Medicine on a national level. Dixon also served
on the steering committee of the Southeast Regional DiVersity Matters
Symposium serving as a liaison for the LSU V.O.I.C.E. chapter during
the symposium.
For information about the DiVersity Matters Symposium or other diversity initiatives of
the at the School of Veterinary Medicine, at LSU please email Dr. Joseph Taboada at
jtaboada@vetmed.lsu.edu or Dr. Annie Daniel @ Annied@lsu.edu
For more information + www.vetmed.lsu.edu
PART II: A NATIONAL V.O.I.C.E.
26. 22
LSU VETERAN AND MILITARY STUDENT SERVICES
A Salute to Open Doors
Veteran and military students are a unique
population on college campuses and sometimes
slip through the cracks of the offices and
services designed for traditional students. In
February 2013 LSUVeteran and Military Student
Services (VMSS) was established to meet the
needs of these non-traditional students. Among
the many functions of VMSS is research and
implementation of policies and best practices
for veterans in high education. A number of
studies by organizations such as the American
Council on Education and Student Veterans of
America have shown that dedicated space for
veteran and military students is key in building
a supportive and resilient veteran community on
campus.
In the spring of 2014 the LSU Center for
Student Veterans opened. The center consists
of an administration and admissions counseling
office, computer lab and study lounge, and a
large group meeting and commons room. A
fourth office for mental health counseling was
added during the fall 2014 semester. While
services such as computer access and printing
are helpful for student veterans the center
provides much more than just computing
services. A safe place where they can relax,
meet other veterans, and build supportive
communities is a key component to their
successful transition from military to civilian
life. Whether veterans are struggling with PTSD
from combat deployments or just the lack of
structure in civilian life having a space where
they can go and be around other people who
they can relate to is vital.The Center for Student
Veterans is currently located in Hatcher Hall
but the eventual plan is to open a larger free
standing veteran’s center once fundraising
efforts are complete.
For information on how to engage with the LSU Center
for Student Veterans projects please email Adam Jennings
ajenn15@lsu.edu
For more information + www.LSU.edu/veterans
Photo courtesy of the LSU Veteran and Military Student Services website 2015
27. [ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 23
THE SCHOOL OF THE COAST AND ENVIRONMENT (SC&E)
Diversity Enrichment from the GROUND UP!
SC&E’s EnvironMentors at LSU is a collaborative,
award-winning, and proven college access
program involving at-risk high school youth and
volunteer university STEM (Science,Technology,
Engineering, and Math) student mentors from
LSU. EnvironMentors pairs inner city Baton
Rouge high school students with LSU student
mentors at a 1:2 ratio for weekly environmental
science-related activities over the course of
the school year, culminating in (1) a national
science competition in Washington, D. C.; and
(2) an overnight trip to conduct field research
in the coastal waters of South Louisiana at
the Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium
(LUMCON). In the field, students explore coastal
Louisiana, the Mississippi Delta, and the Gulf of
Mexico.
This three-year-old program at LSU averages 45
participantsperyear,representingapproximately
15 high school students and 30 university
students majoring in STEM-related curricula.
The program is making a difference in the lives
of all who participate as demonstrated by (1)
the high return rates of mentors; and (2) the
high graduation rates and college attendance
rates of high school participants. Furthermore,
EnvironMentors is making a difference in the
capital area community, too, as evidenced by its
recent recognition by the Coalition to Restore
Coastal Louisiana which announced that LSU
EnvironMentors will receive one of eight 2014
Stewardship Awards.
For information on how to participate with
EnvironMentors at LSU or SC&E’s programs please
email lsu.environmentors@gmail.com
For more information + www.environmentors.lsu.edu
The School of the Coast and Environment (SC&E) consists of two graduate-
level departments, the Department of Oceanography and Coastal Sciences
(DOCS) and the Department of Environmental Sciences (DES), and one
undergraduate-level academic program, Coastal Environmental Science
(CES). As a STEM-dominated school, it faces the challenge of student and
faculty recruitment of underrepresented minorities. The School, however,
has made substantial strides in increasing the diversity within its faculty,
graduate student and baccalaureate ranks as the following table shows.
For information on SC&E’s programs please email Richard Shaw at rshaw@lsu.edu
For more information + www.sce.lsu.edu
Male Female Asian Hispanic Af-Am Caucasian
DOCS Faculty,
Post-Docs & RAs (32),
Staff (4)
28 4
4
10
1
1 - 21
3
DOCS Students (75) 28 47 14 - 4 57
DES Faculty,
Post-Docs & RAs (25),
Staff (2)
16 9
2
5 - 1 19
2
DES Students (40) 18 21 9 2 1 28
CES Baccalaureate
Students (108)
53 55 6 3 9 90
SC&E Admin. Staff (10) 1 9 - - 3 7
PART I: OUTREACH
PART II: RECRUITMENT
EnvironMentors pose with LSU School of the Coast & Environment Dean Chris D’Elia (far left) and Baton
Rouge Mayor Kip Holden (fourth from left on the first row) at the reception following the end-of-year scientific
poster presentations. Mayor Holden graduated McKinley High School, the school EnvironMentors attend.
EnvironMentors from Scotlandville Magnet High School pose on the
research vessel that will take them for field research from LUMCON
(Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium). The overnight field trip is
one of the many highlights they experience exploring STEM related
activities with their mentors.
28. 24
FINANCIAL & DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES
EDCO Unit Spending 2013-2014
SALARIES: 63%
GRADUATE STUDENTS: 9%
OTHER EMPLOYEE SUPPORT: 3%
TRAVEL: 2%
OPERATING: 6%
TELECOMMUNICATIONS: 2%
SUPPLIES: 9%
PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT: 4%
OTHER CHARGES: 2%
2013-2014
EDCO UNIT
FINANCIALS
$
768,433.13
29. [ Annual Diversity Report 2013-2014 ] 25
NATIONAL DIVERSITY ADVISORY BOARD
2013-2014
National Diversity Advisory
Board Emeritus Members:
*NDAB Emeritus Members are those who
have completed their board membership
requirements, but remain committed to sup-
porting diversity and outreach efforts at LSU
through serving as advocates and resources
for EDCO.
Katrice Albert, PhD, Ex-Officio
Vice President,
Office for Equity and Diversity
University of Minnesota
Marco Barker, PhD ‘10
Sr. Director for Education, Operations &
Initiatives, University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill
Cherie Arceneaux-Pinac ‘91, Law ‘94
Chief Operating Officer, Hammerman &
Gainer, Inc.
Jeff Boudreaux ‘96, Law ‘00
Attorney, Kean Miller and Associates
Anita Chang Beattie ‘02
Journalist
Francisco “Frank” Lopez IV ‘76
Vice President of Acute Care, Universal
Health Care Services
Meg Mahoney
Senior Vice President of Product
Development, Baton Rouge Area Chamber
Claude Minor, MD ‘79
General Surgeon, Monroe Surgical Hospital
Joseph Possa ‘88, Law ‘91
Attorney, Tyler & Possa
John Noland Law ‘70
President, Noland Investments
Leonard Stewart ‘98
Attorney of Intellectual Property, Caterpillar
Christine Changho Bruneau
Attorney, Cotton, Schmidt &
Abbott, LLP, New Orleans,
LA
Katherine Rasy Granier ‘99,‘02
Budget Administrator, Louisiana
Department of Education
Baton Rouge, LA
Todd Schexnayder ‘81
Senior Vice President
Blue Cross Blue, Shield of
Louisiana, Baton Rouge, LA
Cassandra Chandler ‘79
Senior Investigative Services
Executive, Bank of America
West End, NC
Beliota Parquet Hawkins ‘91
Human Resources Manager,
Shell Chemicals, Houston, TX
Julie Morial, MD
Corporate Medical Director
Peoples Health, Metairie,
LA
David Sickey
Vice Chairman, Coushatta Tribe
of Louisiana, Lake Charles, LA
Julia Dickinson
Philanthropist; Baton Rouge,
LA
Monica Leach, EdD ‘91
Interim Dean & Associate
Professor, Department of Social
Work, North Carolina State
University, Raleigh, NC
Jyric Sims ‘05
Associate Chief Operating Officer
and Ethics Compliance Officer
Clear Lake Medical Center
Webster, TX
John Paul Funes ‘92
President & CEO, Our Lady of the
Lake Foundation, Baton Rouge,
LA
Patrick McCune ‘03, Law ‘08
Attorney; Jones Walker Law Firm
Baton Rouge, LA
Lois Smyth
Administrative Compliance
Officer, Baton Rouge Area
Foundation, Baton Rouge, LA
Mario Garner, EdD ‘02
Chief Operating Officer, HCA
Fairview Park Hospital, Dublin,
GA
Jaimee Pangburn ‘97, ‘10
Community Advocate, New
Roads, LA
Roderick Teamer ‘85
Director of Business & Metro
Development, Blue Cross
Blue shield of Louisiana
New Orleans, LA
Mark Goodson, ‘04, ‘06
Executive Vice President &
COO, East Baton Rouge
Redevelopment Authority,
Baton Rouge, LA
Stephanie Possa ‘99
Attorney, Tyler & Possa Law
Firm, Baton Rouge, LA
William “Bill” Brigman
Senior Policy Analyst for
U.S. Department of Defense
Credentialing and Licensing
Task Force, SOLID LLC
Kenneth O. Miles
Interim Vice Provost
LSU Office of Equity, Diversity &
Community Outreach
Ex-Officio
Chaunda Allen Mitchell, PhD
Assistant to the Vice Provost & Director
of Office of Multicultural Affairs
LSU Office of Equity, Diversity &
Community Outreach
Ex-Officio
NDAB 2013-2014 MEMBERS:
30. What a great year 2013-14 has been. Remarkable achievements in diversity include graduating the largest classes
of African Americans, Hispanics, and female students in the history of LSU. We also had record numbers of
students from underrepresented populations in our freshman class with students from those groups making up
27.3% of the entering class. LSU also has been recognized as the nation’s leader in granting chemistry Ph.D.’s
to women and underrepresented groups. This type of success does not just happen. Many dedicated individuals
made it happen.
And so it is indeed an honor to have been selected to lead these very important diversity initiatives at Louisiana
State University. Following in the footprints left by this unit’s initial leader, Dr. Greg Vincent and his indomitable
successor, Dr. Katrice Albert presents a daunting challenge. However, it is welcomed and embraced since they have
both produced a tremendous legacy of gains and successes in a variety of diverse pathways. Dr. Albert brought
what Dr. Vincent birthed to maturity. Her contributions on this campus are long lasting and will continue to affect
this institution for years to come.
However, the continued success of this unit could not have been accomplished had it not been for the selfless
leadership of Interim Vice Provost Mr. Kenneth Miles and the tireless work of a very dedicated staff during the
2013-14 school year. Enough cannot be said about the yeoman effort put forth during this past year of transition.
So we look back on 2013-14 with much satisfaction but with the firm understanding that much more work needs
to be done. This upcoming year is continuing a year of “new beginnings.” A year filled with new leadership, new
programming, and a renewed commitment to achieving the diversity that this great university deserves.
Dereck J. Rovaris, Sr., Ph.D.
Vice Provost for Diversity
Office of Diversity
Dereck Rovaris Sr. PhD
Vice Provost for Diversity
26
Diversity is good
for Everyone.