Champions of ÃÛÌÒAPP: Dedicated and High-Achieving People of ÃÛÌÒAPP Featured in 2025
December 11, 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, we’re celebrating some of the incredible Tigers who defined this year through their dedication, creativity, and passion. From groundbreaking research to innovation, and lifelong dreams fulfilled, these stories remind us what makes ÃÛÌÒAPP exceptional — its people.
Innovation born from compassion
ÃÛÌÒAPP Students Create Life-Saving Car Seat Device
A group of ÃÛÌÒAPP 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 ÃÛÌÒAPP 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 ÃÛÌÒAPP’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 ÃÛÌÒAPP’s vital role in addressing global health threats.
Unearthing ÃÛÌÒAPP’s Past
ÃÛÌÒAPP Students Dig into University History
At an archaeological site in Pineville, a group of ÃÛÌÒAPP students and researchers spent their summer uncovering the earliest history of the university — literally. Their hands-on fieldwork brought new discoveries to light about ÃÛÌÒAPP’s first campus, deepening our understanding of where we came from and how far we’ve come.
Inspiring Future scientists
ÃÛÌÒAPP 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 ÃÛÌÒAPP’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
ÃÛÌÒAPP’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 ÃÛÌÒAPP 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 ÃÛÌÒAPP alumni created a Mardi Gras float of Mike the Tiger.
ÃÛÌÒAPP Alumni Create a Mardi Gras Mike the Tiger Float
When ÃÛÌÒAPP 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 ÃÛÌÒAPP fans bring wherever vibrant symbol of the passion and pride ÃÛÌÒAPP fans bring wherever the Tigers play.
Achieving a Lifelong Dream

Linda Young earned her ÃÛÌÒAPP degree at 75 years old.
At 75, Linda Young Earned Her ÃÛÌÒAPP Degree
Linda Young’s journey to her master’s degree in higher education is one of persistence, passion, and Tiger pride. At 75, the ÃÛÌÒAPP Online graduate proved that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. A long-time advocate for ÃÛÌÒAPP in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, Young’s story is a testament to lifelong learning.
Next Step
As we build teams that win for Louisiana, the nation, and the world, ÃÛÌÒAPP is putting our state and its citizens on firmer footing for a brighter tomorrow — one win at a time.


