LSU CSE Hosts Inaugural Gala Honoring Technology Leaders
September 22, 2025
LSU’s Division of Computer Science and Engineering hosted its inaugural Silicon Bayou
Gala at the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center on Sept. 19 to bring together entrepreneurs,
faculty, alumni, industry leaders and students in a celebration of technology and
innovation across Louisiana.
The gala, hosted by comedian and entertainer Brett Duggan, also launched the Louisiana Technology Awards, created to recognize organizations and individuals who are shaping Louisiana’s growing innovation ecosystem. The 2025 award winners were Encore CO2, Fastest Growing Startup; Integer Technologies, Emerging Leader; and MasteryPrep, Best Overall Organization. In addition, LSU CSE unveiled the Silicon Bayou List 2025 spotlighting trailblazing companies and organizations that are making contributions to the state’s technology sector. Honorees included CodeGig, OfficerApps, Integer Technologies, BRBytes, Obney.ai, Trendsic Corporation, MasteryPrep, Encore CO2, FarmSmarter.ai, and TraceSecurity, LLC.
The gala also celebrated academic excellence within LSU by recognizing faculty and staff for their outstanding contributions in research, teaching, service and collaboration. Among the highlights were the Order of Thor Medal, a national award presented by the Military Cyber Professionals Association, which was awarded to LSU CSE Professor Golden Richard.
Other honorees included Andrew Webb for Outstanding Collaboration; Aisha Ali-Gombe for Outstanding Service; James Ghawaly as Rising Faculty; Elias Bou-Harb for Excellence in Research; Anas Mahmoud for Excellence in Teaching; and Nathan Brener for Lifetime Service. Entergy Chief AI Officer Andrew Quick received the LSU CSE Hall of Distinction “Eye of the Tiger” Innovator Award for his leadership in advancing AI and technology.
Caitlyn Coco received the Steel Magnolia Award, which honors individuals who embody strength and grace.
“These are qualities Caitlynn displayed in her tireless efforts to bring the gala to life,” LSU CSE Chair Ibrahim Baggili said.
Silicon Bayou List 2025 - Honorees include CodeGig, OfficerApps, Integer Technologies, BRBytes, Obney.ai, Trendsic Corporation, MasteryPrep, Encore CO2, FarmSmarter.ai, and TraceSecurity, LLC
In addition to awards and recognitions, the gala showcased interactive projects created by LSU students and faculty. Attendees experienced firsthand the creativity and technical expertise emerging from the program, including a faculty-built robot bartender developed by Felipe Fronchetti, which served drinks while demonstrating the playful and practical potential of robotics. These projects highlighted LSU’s dedication to hands-on learning and its commitment to preparing students to drive innovation in real-world settings.
The success of the gala was made possible by the generous support of partners committed to advancing Louisiana’s technology landscape. Entergy, serving as Diamond Sponsor under the name Quantum Cypress, led the way, joined by other major supporters including Nexus Louisiana, LSU College of Engineering, 365 Labs, MMR, LS Vigilus, Qimana, and the Cain Center.
The gala was chaired by Alaina Metz-Smith, with Caitlynn Coco serving as Vice Chair and Ali Ghosn as Web Chair. Their leadership, alongside LSU’s CSE Industry Advisory Board—composed of technology leaders Alexander “Lex” Adams, Chris Meaux, Craig Stevens, Mohit “Mo” Vij, and Tony Zanders—ensured the event successfully combined community, culture, and innovation.
From L to R: Jeff Foster - President, Mindcreek, Renea Foster, Felecia Stevens, Craig Stevens - President, Genesis 365, CSE Board Member
One of the most impactful announcements of the evening was the creation of the Future of Technology Fund, seeded by a $250,000 gift from an anonymous LSU alumnus. The fund will support LSU students, faculty, and division initiatives, ensuring that Louisiana continues to lead in innovation and research.
The gala also marked the official announcement of LSU’s submission for a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (BSc AI).
“The program is designed to be one of the best in the country, preparing students not just to use AI but to build it from the ground up,” Baggili said. “By teaching the principles of artificial intelligence from first principles, LSU aims to graduate students who can create transformative AI technologies while addressing ethical, social, and technical challenges head-on.
“The Silicon Bayou Gala is about more than celebrating accomplishments,” Baggili said. “It is about charting a path forward for Louisiana. By honoring our innovators, engaging our students, and securing support for the future, we are laying the foundation for Louisiana to become a national hub for technology and innovation.”
Felipe Fronchetti's Robot Bartender
With tuxedos and gowns alongside robots and student projects, the gala embodied its theme: Code. Culture. Celebration. As Louisiana continues to diversify its economy and invest in the next generation of leaders, the Silicon Bayou Gala stands as a bold symbol of what is possible when technology, education, and community come together.”
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