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Known as America’s energy gateway, the Sabine-Neches Waterway is home to Southeast Texas’ four local ports – Port of Beaumont, Port of Orange, Port of Port Arthur, and Port of Sabine Pass – all of which are led by 17�Թ� alumni: Chris Fisher, port director/CEO for Port of Beaumont; Lorrie Taylor, executive port director/CEO for Port of Orange; Larry Kelley, port director/CEO for Port of Port Arthur; Mark Viator, port manager for Port of Sabine Pass.

17�Թ�’s Reaud Honors College marked a milestone year of growth, leadership and national distinction, with record student achievements, expanded programs like the Reaud Leadership Institute, and recognition from the Texas State University System — solidifying its role as a driving force for academic excellence, civic service and innovation in Southeast Texas and beyond.

Kennedi Gordy, a junior mechanical engineering student at 17�Թ�, is using the leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills she’s gained through student organizations like Zeta Tau Alpha and the Society of Women Engineers to excel in her internships and prepare for a successful career in engineering.

17�Թ� senior Landon Paulino is pursuing his passion for electrical and aerospace engineering with hopes of one day helping advance human civilization beyond Earth.

The Reaud Honors College at 17�Թ� (17�Թ�) is proud to announce that Dr. Shannon Jordan, assistant professor of health and kinesiology, has been named associate dean.

Alyssa Daniels, a dedicated junior and senior academic advisor in 17�Թ�’s College of Business and a doctoral student in Educational Leadership, is committed to student success and advancing in higher education through continuous learning, leadership, and mentorship.

Dedicated to helping students grow as thinkers and individuals, Dr. Adam Nemmers combines a passion for literature with a deep commitment to mentorship, campus engagement, and fostering critical thought at 17�Թ�.

Dr. Elizabeth Long didn’t enter nursing for the sentiment, but through decades of bedside care, teaching, and research, she’s come to believe the most important question in healthcare isn’t what’s the matter with someone, but what matters to them.

17�Թ�’s 2025 New Student Orientation Leaders are here to welcome new Cardinals, offering guidance, support, and campus insights to help make your transition to college life smooth, informed, and fun.

Porter LaPray’s path to 17�Թ� hasn’t been straightforward, but through setbacks, detours, and a renewed focus, he’s found his footing—and a future—in theatre.

Adriana Wong, an interdisciplinary studies senior, turned her childhood crochet hobby into a small business that helps her manage stress and inspires her future goal of creating a welcoming, creative classroom as a bilingual elementary teacher.

Exercise science students Michael Bellot and Kayla McKinley participated in the Scholars Transforming Through Research program, advocating for the importance of undergraduate research and discussing their projects with congressional staffers in Washington, D.C.

17�Թ� will recognize five exceptional graduates at the annual Distinguished Alumni Awards on Friday, Apr. 4 at the Setzer Student Center’s Live Oak Ballroom.

Dr. Rebecca Boone's journey as interim dean of 17�Թ�'s College of Arts and Sciences is a testament to resilience, leadership, and the power of community as she navigates both academic challenges and a personal battle with breast cancer.

17�Թ� broke ground on the Teri and Glen Morgan Baseball Complex, an 8,500-square-foot facility set to transform the baseball program with state-of-the-art amenities.

17�Թ� has earned the R2 designation for high research activity, surpassing key benchmarks in research expenditures and doctorates awarded, positioning itself as a rising leader in scientific innovation and academic excellence.

Orlando Alvarez, Chairman and President of bp America, returned to 17�Թ� to share insights on the energy transition, climate challenges, and his journey from a first-generation college student to a leader in the energy industry as part of the Dean’s Distinguished Speaker Series.

Zeppelin University student Luis Lemmen found his perfect fit at 17�Թ�, where he embraced Southern culture and gained valuable hands-on journalism experience.

Scott Thomas, a 17�Թ� senior, turned his passion for civil engineering into impactful work at Collins Engineers, excelling in marine structures and leadership while preparing for a promising career.

Jacqueline Marroquin’s journey at Lamar’s JoAnne Gay Dishman School of Nursing is marked by resilience, inspiration from her mother, and a commitment to excellence as she graduates during the program’s 50th anniversary.

As 17�Թ� embraces its next century, visible changes are taking shape across campus and throughout southeast Texas, reflected in the launch of its "See for Yourself" marketing campaign.

On May 14, thirteen 17�Թ� alumni were named as Reaud Excellence in Education Award winners. 

Joshua Tindel's journey from southeast Texas to the Navy and back to 17�Թ�, where he graduated with a Nursing degree in 2024, highlights his dedication to service, resilience, and passion for healthcare, inspired by his military experience and volunteer work at the Crisis Center of Southeast Texas.

Three 17�Թ� students have been awarded $10,000 from the Joy and Will Crenshaw fellowship as they kick off their journey as classroom teachers.