Spring 2026 Rucks Fellows Announced

Jaydin Brewer is pursuing a bachelor's degree in management with a concentration in strategic leadership. Brewer has been an active member of Delta Sigma Pi, a coed professional business fraternity, for two years, serving in a variety of leadership positions before being elected president. Serving as president strengthened his leadership abilities and deepened his interest in guiding and managing teams, aligning with his long-term goal of becoming a project manager. Brewer also works as a mathematics tutor at the Center for Academic Success, where he supports students in improving their academic performance throughout the learning process. This experience enhanced his communication, problem-solving and leadership skills. Brewer plans to continue building his leadership and analytical abilities as he works toward a career in project management and hopes to make an impact within his organization and community.

Vivian Ely is pursuing a bachelor's degree in management with a concentration in strategic leadership. She is an active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and has spent the past two years serving as a communications and events intern with the Louisiana Travel Association. In that role, Ely supports Chairman's Circle and Executive Board members, assists with organizational communications and helps plan and execute multiple events throughout the year. Through this experience, Ely has developed a strong appreciation for relationship-building and learned the importance of meaningful connections in strengthening both people and organizations. Following graduation, she will transition into a full-time position with the Louisiana Travel Association, where she will lead and grow the Louisiana Tourism Fund, collaborate with universities to enhance hospitality education and serve as a liaison between students and industry professionals across the state. Looking ahead, Ely aspires to one day start her own business, driven by a passion for building something from the ground up and creating a culture valued by everyone involved.

Thu Nguyen is pursuing a bachelor's degree in management with a concentration in human resource management. She is a first-generation college student with an educational foundation shaped by international learning experiences. Driven by a passion for leadership and a commitment to continuous learning, Nguyen actively seeks opportunities for personal and professional growth. After completing her undergraduate degree, she plans to pursue a master's degree in human resources and use the knowledge and skills gained through the Rucks Department of Management to establish her own business. In doing so, she hopes to advance her career in human resource management and contribute meaningfully to the community and organizations she serves.

Paola Rodriguez is pursuing a degree in management with a concentration in international management. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Rodriguez moved with her family to Katy, Texas, at age 14 due to economic and political conditions in Venezuela. She then began high school in Texas, where exposure to business courses helped shape her decision to pursue management studies. At LSU, Rodriguez has embraced opportunities for academic and personal growth, crediting the university's environment, education, faculty and friendships with helping shape her college experience. Rodriguez is honored to be recognized as a Rucks Fellow.

Abigail Soudelier is pursuing a bachelor's degree in management with a concentration in human resource management and a minor in leadership development. She has maintained a 4.16 GPA, earned consistent President's List honors and was recognized as a 2025 Ourso Outstanding Eight honoree. She most recently served as a human resources intern at Halliburton, supporting global talent development initiatives, standardizing complex datasets and enhancing training resources to improve organizational effectiveness. Soudelier previously interned with Living Water International, where she developed job profile inventories and implemented digital systems to strengthen operations. On campus, she serves as president of the LSU chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management and holds leadership roles in Pi Beta Phi and LSU Greekwide Student Ministry. Following graduation, she will return to Houston to begin a full-time role with Halliburton.