Champions of LSU: Dedicated and High-Achieving People of LSU Featured in 2025

Innovation born from compassion

LSU Students Create Life-Saving Car Seat Device 

A group of LSU engineering students transformed tragedy into innovation when they designed a car seat safety device to prevent heat-related child deaths. Their invention automatically alerts parents and emergency contacts if a child is left unattended, proving that LSU students don’t just dream about a better world — they build it. 

Fighting Antibiotic Resistance

Dr. Mario Rivera’s Groundbreaking Work 

Dr. Mario Rivera, a biochemist in LSU’s Department of Biological Sciences, is tackling one of the world’s greatest health challenges: antibiotic resistance. His research explores new ways to combat bacterial infections and safeguard the effectiveness of life-saving drugs. Rivera’s discoveries not only advance science but also highlight LSU’s vital role in addressing global health threats. 

Unearthing LSU’s Past

LSU Students Dig into University History 

At an archaeological site in Pineville, a group of LSU students and researchers spent their summer uncovering the earliest history of the university — literally. Their hands-on fieldwork brought new discoveries to light about LSU’s first campus, deepening our understanding of where we came from and how far we’ve come. 

Inspiring Future scientists

LSU Biochemistry Alum Paves the Way

Biochemistry alum Kayla Cureaux is turning her passion for science into purpose. Growing up deaf and searching for a role model in STEM, she’s now becoming that example for others. From her time in LSU’s labs to her commitment to inspiring future deaf and hard of hearing students, Cureaux proves that with dedication and support, every Tiger can make an impact. 

educating the state's educators

Preparing Future Teachers with GeauxTeach 

LSU’s GeauxTeach STEM program trains future teachers by letting undergraduates earn a BS in biology, chemistry, math, or physics and a secondary teaching certificate in four years. Backed by the Robert Noyce Scholarship, students commit to teaching in high-need schools. Students receive hands-on teaching experience, and for some recent LSU grads like Owanaemi Bestman, who after graduating, is staying in Louisiana to staying in Louisiana to teach. 

A Man, a Dream, and a Tuba

Kent Broussard’s Inspiring Story 

For Kent Broussard, music was more than a passion — it was a calling. When most people think about retirement, they imagine slowing down. But for 66-year-old Broussard, retirement became the perfect chance to chase a dream he had carried with him for decades—marching down Victory Hill as a member of as a member of the Golden Band from Tigerland. 

A Voice That Captivated the Nation

John Foster speaks to the "American Idol" judges.

John Foster on "American Idol"

When John Foster stepped onto the "American Idol" stage, he brought with him more than just a powerful voice — he brought the Louisiana and Tiger spirit. Balancing coursework and music, Foster’s journey was one of Foster’s journey was one of determination and artistry.  

Bringing Tiger Pride to Omaha

A group of LSU alumni created a Mardi Gras float of Mike the Tiger. 

LSU Alumni Create a Mardi Gras Mike the Tiger Float 

When LSU Baseball made its way to the College World Series, a group of creative alumni made sure Tiger fans felt right at home — with a full-sized Mardi Gras float featuring Mike the Tiger himself. The float became a roaring success, and a vibrant symbol of the passion and pride LSU fans bring wherever vibrant symbol of the passion and pride LSU fans bring wherever the Tigers play. 

Achieving a Lifelong Dream

Linda Young earned her LSU degree at 75 years old.

At 75, Linda Young Earned Her LSU Degree

Linda Young’s journey to her master’s degree in higher education is one of persistence, passion, and Tiger pride. At 75, the LSU Online graduate proved that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. A long-time advocate for LSU in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Young’s story is a testament to lifelong learning.