Hall of Distinction 25th Anniversary Celebration: Honoring 2020 & 2021 Inductees - Louisiana State ...
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Hall of Distinction 25th Anniversary Celebration: Honoring 2020 & 2021 Inductees
PROGRAM
WELCOME
Jared J. Llorens
Dean, LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business
OUTSTANDING YOUNG ALUM AWARD
Nick Speyrer
DINNER
INDUCTION OF THE 2020 AND 2021
HALL OF DISTINCTION CLASSES
HONOREE REFLECTIONS
Kathleen L. Quirk
Robert K. Reeves
M. Jack Sanders
Dal Miller
Scott T. Agosta
Suzanne T. Mestayer
CLOSING REMARKS
E. J. Ourso College of Business
Hall of Distinction Honorees
2020 2021
LSU’s E. J. Ourso College of Business has long been at the forefront of
producing leaders who make significant contributions to the areas of business,
Dal Miller Scott T. Agosta
academia, government, and the community at large. Since 1996, the college has Chairman of the Board & CEO, Chief Accounting Officer and Controller,
honored individuals who have a strong association with the college and have Premium Inspection and Testing Group Morningstar Partners
distinguished themselves through their professional and civic achievements
earning a place in the E. J. Ourso College of Business Hall of Distinction.
Suzanne T. Mestayer
Nominees for the Hall of Distinction may be submitted by anyone and are Kathleen L. Quirk Managing Principal,
President and Chief Financial Officer, ThirtyNorth Investments, LLC
solicited on behalf of the E. J. Ourso College by the Dean’s Advisory Council,
Freeport-McMoRan
the College Executive Committee, and past inductees.
Beginning in 2021, in addition to the Hall of Distinction Inductees, the college Outstanding Young Alum Award Recipient
Robert K. Reeves
is proud to recognize one alumnus who has exhibited great promise in their
Retired Executive Vice President & Chief Administration Officer, Nick Speyrer
career and whose early accomplishments distinguish them as an upcoming Founder & President,
Anadarko Petroleum Corporation
leader in their profession. This individual will receive the Outstanding Young Emergent Method
Alum Award.
M. Jack Sanders
Retired President and CEO,
Sonoco Products Company
Dal Miller Reflections…
Dal Miller holds a Bachelor of Science in finance regional service provider to an organization with
(1989) and an MBA (1991) with an emphasis in operational bases throughout the entire United
During most of my senior year of high school, Texas A&M was my primary LSU got me my first job out of college and, more importantly, introduced
economics from LSU. He is a licensed, certified States. LB Foster purchased IOS in late 2015, and
college choice. The son of a Texas A&M educated veterinarian, I didn’t me to my wife, Leslie. In our home resides the top student from our
public accountant in the state of Texas. Miller then joined AMI, a private equity-backed grow up an LSU fan and never gave much thought to attending LSU. But MBA class; let’s just say it isn’t me. LSU also forged the bond that led my
oil and gas measurement company, as its chief fate intervened and my best friend convinced me to attend an LSU football wife and me to several lifelong friendships. During the years we lived in
Miller joined Ernst and Young in 1991 and served
executive officer and chairman. He directed AMI game during my senior year of high school. This was my introduction to Houston, we met several people through LSU alumni gatherings, many of
as senior accountant for multiple privately
through a transformational acquisition as well as LSU. I went to a couple of LSU basketball games the following spring, and whom are here tonight.
owned, closely-held companies, primarily in
several years of organic growth and eventually slowly my lens went from maroon to purple and gold.
the energy business. In 1995, he joined XRI, a I’m from a large family and my attending LSU was a financial strain that
led the sale of AMI to SPL in December 2018.
nondestructive testing company, as a co-owner I spent my first year of college at LSU Eunice (LSUE); the campus is was only made possible in part due to the scholarships I received. The
and general manager. Over the next several Miller joined Premium Inspection and Testing less than five miles from where I grew up. Although I wanted to head financial assistance that allowed me to attend LSU changed my life. This is
years, XRI entered several new geographic Group as the chief executive officer in January to Baton Rouge right after high school, that year spent at LSUE was one reason Leslie and I feel so strongly about providing resources that can
locations as well as expanded its product line 2019. Additionally, he currently serves as a board invaluable. I went to a small high school and LSUE allowed for a smoother be used for scholarships and remain committed to assisting LSU in their
transition into college. The year spent at LSUE also provided me with pursuit of the best and brightest students and faculty.
offering. XRI was sold to Team Industrial Services member of Certus Energy, Southwest Elevator,
firsthand knowledge of the broader connectivity of LSU beyond Baton
in April 1999, where Miller served as an executive Alliance Source Testing, Petrolog, and chairman I’m forever grateful for my purple and gold glasses. Forever LSU!
Rouge; students there feel every bit as much of the Tiger Pride as their
vice president for several years. He then joined of Premium Inspection. Miller also serves as an Baton Rouge counterparts. On your next trip to Tiger Stadium, take a
Tubular Technology, an oil and gas completions advisor to Founders Investment Banking and minute before kickoff and look around. You will see the power of LSU’s
service business based out of Lafayette, in previously served on the board of Tri Parish Bank. connectivity. Every parish in Louisiana is accounted for, including Tiger fans
October 2002 as co-owner and chief executive from throughout the country, representing a broad cross-section of ethnic,
He is a member of the E. J. Ourso College of
officer. Tubular experienced exceptional growth social, and economic backgrounds.
Business Dean’s Advisory Council, Tiger Athletic
under Miller’s leadership and was to Smith
Foundation, and the LSU Foundation. He resides This broad cross-section of thoughts and perspectives is something
Services in August 2005. He remained with Smith I remember vividly from my days at LSU. My MBA professors taught
in Lafayette, Louisiana, with his wife, Leslie, also
Services serving as vice president-North America, us critical thinking in tackling wide-ranging, interconnected issues. My
an LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business alum.
drilling group, until November 2012. academic and social experiences at LSU continue to influence my life
They have two children, Walter (20), a junior at
today by instilling in me a sense of confidence that prepared me to hold
Miller joined IOS as chief executive officer, a LSU, and Margaret (18).
my own in the business world. I feel this confidence even when working
private equity-backed energy service company
side by side with others who may have a more “prestigious” educational
2020
based in Houston in December 2012. Under background. I am proud of my public university education and would put it
his direction, IOS was transformed from a small up against anyone.
Kathleen L. Quirk Reflections…
Kathleen L. Quirk is president and chief financial Quirk holds a Bachelor of Science degree in
officer of Freeport-McMoRan Inc., a leading accounting (1985) from LSU. She currently serves
Something for Everyone student, and I thought accounting was “hard.” I was fortunate to develop a
international mining company and one of the on the board of directors of Vulcan Materials
friendship with students much smarter than I, and they graciously allowed
world’s largest publicly traded copper producers. Company and is also a member of the board of Many students and parents today do a lot of research to find the perfect
me to join their study group, which helped tremendously.
Quirk has over 30 years of experience in the directors of the Valley of the Sun United Way. She college experience — exhaustive application processes, testing and
Freeport-McMoRan organization and is a senior resides in Phoenix, Arizona. retesting, engaging college consultants, attending campus tours, and the Through the years, I also learned that LSU is much more than educational
list goes on. I grew up in a strong LSU family. Both my parents attended classes, social interaction, and sporting events. It is a place where there is
member of the company’s executive team. She
LSU, and my five siblings also attended LSU. something for everyone. The programs and tools required to excel, inspire,
has been instrumental in Freeport-McMoRan’s
gain a solid education and well-rounded college experience are present in
strategic planning and has responsibility for I never considered attending another school and I have never looked back.
a big way and continue to get better. It’s a place that “is what you make of
a broad range of financial and administrative Reflecting on my college experience, I have a great appreciation for it,” and many have benefited from the LSU experience.
functions. She has been named the best what LSU offers — a broad range of curriculums with an outstanding and
In my business travels around the country and internationally, I often
chief financial officer in metals and mining by committed faculty; a variety of extra-curricular activities; a beautiful campus
come into contact with highly successful LSU graduates in far-reaching
Institutional Investor magazine on numerous blessed with oak trees, scenic lakes, and history; an increasingly diverse
places or people who have family or friends with a connection to LSU. We
occasions. student body; a world-renowned athletic program; and a unique and
find an immediate bond which quickly turns into storytelling, remembering
vibrant culture rooted in family, friends, and food.
fellow classmates, professors, and discussing family, friends, food, and, of
I attended high school at Mercy Academy in New Orleans, a small, all- course, sports.
female Catholic school as part of a graduating class of only 93 students.
LSU is a special place and a shining example of success. I am forever
Upon arrival at Miller Dormitory in August of 1981, I realized I was in a much
grateful to the administration and faculty for my education and for
larger environment. My roommate was a close friend from high school, and
continuing to build on a tradition of providing a full college experience on
we enjoyed the new experience. I quickly began to appreciate the benefits
this Baton Rouge campus for nearly 100 years.
of meeting new people with different backgrounds and upbringings.
Lastly, this reflection would not be complete without a big shout out to the
I joined Tri-Delta sorority, where I made enduring, lifelong friendships, and
players, coaching staff, and millions of fans who enjoyed every minute of
learned to work as a team and gain leadership experience. In many ways,
a 15-0 season and a National Championship! It is a magical time for LSU —
it was my experience at Tri-Delta that taught me about business, service,
Geaux Tigers!
and working with people — which has helped me in life and my career.
I don’t recall any accounting majors in my sorority class, which ended
2020
up being a good thing. I made friends with classmates and enjoyed
the interaction with others in the accounting program. I was a decent
Robert K. Reeves Reflections…
A native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Robert K. “Bobby” Reeves currently serves as a member of the
Reeves received his Bachelor of Science in LSU Foundation National Board and the board
In August of 1975, my best friend and I loaded all of our belongings in my I am very proud to be an LSU Tiger and all of my friends and
business administration from LSU (1978) and his of Episcopal Health Foundation, and previously
two-door Camaro for the trip from Lafayette to Baton Rouge. It was a tight acquaintances know of my love for this school. From academics to
Doctor of Jurisprudence (1982) from the LSU Paul served on the board of Key Energy Services, Inc., fit, but we were excited and ready to begin our college years at LSU. I athletics, I am a huge promoter of LSU when counseling students who
M. Hebert Law Center. He is a licensed attorney Western Gas Partners, LP, Western Gas Equity did not know what might lie ahead for me, but I knew that I was ready to are considering the university for their college years. My wife and I
in Texas and Louisiana. Partners, LP, St. Luke’s Episcopal Health System, leave the comforts of my home and start the next chapter of my life. I was were thrilled when each of our three daughters decided to attend LSU
Family Services of Greater Houston, and United confident that LSU would offer many opportunities if I could just figure out because we knew that they would receive a fantastic education and have
Reeves recently retired from Anadarko Petroleum
Way of Greater Houston. how to embrace them. That first day was one of the most significant steps an incredible college experience. I strongly believe in an LSU business
Corporation in Houston, where he served for
in my lifetime. I am convinced that my personal and business successes education, and I have been grateful for the opportunity to endow student
14 years as executive vice president and chief Reeves resides in Houston with his wife of 37
would not have been possible without the education I was provided, the scholarships so that more students will have the same opportunities and
administrative officer, supervising legal, human years, Beth Fryar Reeves, and they have three experiences I enjoyed, and the friends I made at LSU. experiences that I enjoyed.
resources, government relations, information daughters, Courtney, Leanne and Kathryn, and
technology, HSE, corporate security, and seven grandchildren. As a young boy in elementary school, my goal was to one day become I was recently selected as a member of the newly-formed LSU Foundation
a lawyer and work for an oil company. To do so, I knew that a business National Board. As a member of the National Board, I value the opportunity
administrative functions for the company. Before
education was a valuable prerequisite. From the beginning, I knew that to work with old and new friends as ambassadors for LSU —encouraging
joining Anadarko, Reeves served for 11 years
I wanted to pursue a business degree so that I might obtain a good others to be a part of the great LSU traditions and to show them how to
as executive vice president, general counsel, understanding of the business world. While the accounting classes I took Love Purple and Live Gold!
and secretary for Ocean Energy, Inc. and its at LSU were not my favorites, I enjoyed the business school classes I
predecessor, Flores & Rucks, Inc. Before his Thank you very much for this honor and recognition. I am humbled and
viewed as more practical for my goals —finance, risk and insurance, and
grateful for everything that LSU has provided to me. Forever LSU!
corporate roles, he was a partner for 11 years in real estate. Years later, when I became an attorney for a public energy
the Onebane Law Firm of Lafayette, Louisiana. company, I was grateful for the excellent business education that I
experienced at LSU. That foundation helped me to be a better attorney
and public company officer.
When asked how my college experience prepared me for my career path,
I share that at LSU, I learned to speak confidently when communicating
with others. My instructors and professors were great communicators and
encouraged my peers and me to be the same. An Ivy League education
would not have prepared me any better for the leadership and business
2020 management roles that I have held.
M. Jack Sanders Reflections…
M. Jack Sanders is the retired president and chief Sanders was named executive vice president -
executive officer of Sonoco Products Company. He industrial, with global operating responsibility for
When I arrived in Baton Rouge for my first semester, I didn’t know what I wanted In 1988, I joined Sonoco Products Company as the National Sales Manager for
served on the board of directors, executive committee all the company’s businesses serving industrial to be or what career I desired. I had chosen to study political science, intending Sonoco Reels and met my final mentor, Charles Reid. What I learned from my
and led the company’s management committee. markets, including Sonoco’s tube and core, to attend law school to become a litigator; at least that was my initial dream. prior mentors helped me to improve my skills. Charles taught me how to use
paper, wire and cable reels, protective packaging, After two semesters and two challenging language classes, I went to my advisor my skills to help others improve theirs and how to be a leader. I spent the next
During his 30-year career with Sonoco, Sanders
paperboard specialties and recycling business. and asked, “what degree does not require a foreign language?” His response 30 years working for Sonoco, applying all I had learned from my mentors and
played an integral role in growing the company was simple and straight forward, “Business.” My response was the same — especially those from Charles Reid. It became apparent to me that real success
In 2010, he was named executive vice president -
by leading all consumer, industrial and protective “Sign me up.” From that point forward, a path toward a business degree took wasn’t about me; it was about the success of the people with whom I worked. If
consumer, with leadership for all of Sonoco’s global
packaging businesses at various points. Before form. I chose finance over accounting because I preferred the conceptual side they were collectively successful, I would be successful as a leader.
consumer businesses, including composite cans, of finance.
assuming the role of CEO, he was president and When good people are challenged, given support, and allowed to succeed, they
flexibles, rigid plastics, and display and packaging.
chief operating officer with global leadership, sales With my academic goals now resolved, I began to focus on my more immediate deliver. When great people receive the same, they excel!
and operating responsibility for all of Sonoco’s Sanders served on the boards of South Carolina need - money. I borrowed the money to attend LSU and I needed a job to
After many years, all of these learnings blended into a simple conclusion I often
minimize the amount of debt I was acquiring. Through the student aid office,
diversified packaging businesses. Governor’s School for Science and Mathematics, used in my role as CEO. I would sit with our new employees and discuss the
I found a job at Baton Rouge Wood Preserving (a Division of Osmose Wood
Manufacturers Alliance for Productivity and difference between management and leadership and why both are important.
Sanders received his Bachelor of Science in finance Preserving Company) that would later serve as a launching platform for my
We would have a long discussion and then I would conclude with a simple line –
Innovation, American Forest and Paper Association career. For the next four years, my life consisted of early morning classes at 7:30
(1976) from LSU. He joined Sonoco in 1988 as Management is about “doing things right,” but leadership is about “doing the right
and the Charles W. Coker and Elizabeth H. Coker a.m. and a second shift job, so my interaction with faculty and other aspects of
national sales and marketing manager, Wire and things”! Doing the “right things, right” make people and companies GREAT!
Foundation. He is the most recent chairman of the school were limited. As I look back, I genuinely wish I could have been more
Cable Reels. In 1992, he was asked to build and involved with university life, but that wasn’t my situation. However, Saturday Unfortunately, it all goes by in the blink of an eye, but I will never forget the
the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce and
lead Sonoco’s new protective packaging division, nights were mine, and there was no better way to spend a Saturday night than Quad, Tiger Town, Free Speech Alley, and Saturday night in Baton Rouge.
served as its commerce chair. He is also actively
and he took the role of general manager. He was in Tiger Stadium. When the Tigers were away or after football season, my 4-year
Years later, after being displaced from New Orleans by Hurricane Katrina, I
involved with the Boy Scouts of America Pee Dee roommate and I would often head for Metairie and Fat City.
promoted in 1998 to division vice president and found myself back in Baton Rouge. I was approached about joining the Dean’s
Area Council and helped establish the ScoutReach
general manager of protective packaging. Sanders Four years at LSU passed quickly, and I was offered a sales role by Osmose Advisory Council at the LSU E. J. Ourso College of Business. It has been such
program working with at-risk youth in Hartsville Wood Preserving Company and transferred to Houston, Texas. I received a a fulfilling experience. One of the things we often discuss on DAC is how our
was elected a corporate officer and named vice
elementary schools. In January 2020, Sanders was company car, an expense account, and got $600.00 a month - I had hit the big alumni can give their time, treasure, and talent to help LSU. I’ve tried to give in
president - industrial products for North America in
elected to the board of directors for McCall Farms, time at last! each of these ways so that future graduates can forge their own path.
2001. He was subsequently named vice president,
a regional canned goods producer based in the I’ve worked for only four companies throughout my career and quickly learned Today I’m proud to have several LSU tiger alumni as colleagues at my company.
global industrial products in January 2006 and
Southeast United States. it’s the people that make the real difference. I was fortunate to have several Similarly, we are proud to employ LSU students as interns and have offered
senior vice president in October 2006, before
mentors who shaped my thoughts and skills. They were all different, and each several of them their first opportunities for full-time employment upon graduation.
2020
assuming additional responsibilities for all industrial He and his wife, Sheri, live in Charlotte, North brought a completely different skill set and thought process. I must admit I
Thank you for this recognition. I am deeply humbled and appreciative.
converting businesses in July 2007. In 2008, Carolina and have three grown children. shamelessly copied as much from each as I could.
Scott T. Agosta Reflections…
Scott Agosta graduated from LSU in 1987 with He currently resides in Southlake, Texas, with
a bachelor’s degree in accounting. He began Kim, his wife of 32 years. They have two children:
As our parents waved goodbye, my best friend from high school and I left I left KPMG several years ago, but I continued my career in accounting and
his career in accounting with KPMG in Houston Maggie, (27) a Doctor of Pharmacy graduate from Oklahoma and headed to LSU. Having never lived outside of Oklahoma, we often think about how my education at LSU prepared me for success both
but eventually made his way back to Baton the University of Texas at Austin—she completed were both a little overwhelmed and, truth be told, scared. We had both been professionally and personally. A few years ago, Dean White came to Fort Worth
Rouge. When Albemarle Corporation moved its her undergraduate studies in biochemistry at LSU, to Louisiana multiple times—we both had family there—but this was quite and stopped by my office for a visit. At that time, he mentioned that they were
administrative offices to Baton Rouge in 1994, Scott and Reed (24), a marketing graduate from Abilene different. Three weeks into our new adventure, I came back to the dorm from looking for new members for the Dean’s Advisory Council. I was intrigued
class to find my friend packed and headed back home. Now I had to find my about the opportunity to give back to LSU, and when he formally invited me
went to work in its financial reporting group. In 2000, Christian University.
own way, with no sidekick. We had pledged a fraternity where I focused much to join the DAC, I jumped at the opportunity. It has been a privilege to serve
Agosta moved back to Oklahoma to work for Devon of my time and attention on making new life-long friends. I remember my first on the DAC with so many amazing alumni who are committed to helping LSU
Energy before being hired by XTO Energy in 2005. LSU football game—as so many have said before; it was an experience like no continue to be a place that turns its students into great people and future
At XTO, Scott was the vice president- financial other. Some of my fondest memories at LSU involve football games—trips to leaders. Thank you for this recognition—I am truly honored and humbled.
reporting when ExxonMobil purchased XTO in South Bend in November (it snowed), Gainesville, and others.
2010. After assisting with the transition, Agosta, with When I arrived at LSU, I was unsure if I wanted to study engineering or
several of the principals from XTO, became one accounting. It did not take long for me to decide that accounting was the
of the founding partners of Morningstar Partners right path for me. I was one of those students who would sit at the back of
the room and try to maintain a low profile. However, one instructor, Joy Irwin,
in 2012, where he currently serves as the chief
shocked me one day when she called me by name and said she had seen
accounting officer and controller. me out that weekend at a movie. I couldn’t believe that she knew my name!
But that’s the person she was. She truly cared about her students and made
Scott is a CPA and member of the Junior
the material very relatable. She was one of many outstanding professors and
Achievement of the Chisolm Trail Board of Directors, instructors I encountered during my time at LSU. They opened my eyes to new
serving on the finance committee, and the Dean’s opportunities and, because of the confidence they gave me, I started taking
Advisory Council at LSU’s E. J. Ourso College of on more leadership roles in my fraternity and on campus. I used all these
Business. experiences, support from my professors and instructors, and hard work to get
my first job with KPMG in Houston. It was there that I met my wife, Kim. With
KPMG, I eventually made my way back to Baton Rouge, where both of our kids
were born.
2021
Suzanne T. Mestayer Reflections…
A native of New Iberia and a longtime resident of Southeast Louisiana. Lastly, she was a board
New Orleans, Suzanne Trappey Mestayer graduated member and officer of the International Women’s
I remember being incredibly excited to come to LSU. I moved into Miller Hall increase in the number of women each year. I remember only two other women
from LSU with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Forum and co-chairman of its leadership foundation and was thrilled with my newfound independence. Most of my friends went to in my accounting classes, so it was a delight to see women recognize the
dedicated to the mentoring and development of USL, closer to my hometown, New Iberia, but I wanted to go a bit further and attractiveness of the career. Fast forward to today - what a change!
Suzanne is the managing principal of ThirtyNorth
women leaders. attend a bigger school. It seemed a small but symbolic step towards the path I
Investments, LLC, an independent registered Ultimately, I left public accounting, having become a tax partner and a member
wanted for my future.
investment advisory firm which provides investment Prior to ThirtyNorth Investments, Suzanne held of Arthur Andersen’s national estate and gift specialty team. It was a wonderful
There was at least one more reason why I found LSU attractive. As an 18- year- career for me. I then transitioned into banking via the call to create a wealth
consultation and advisory services to families, executive leadership roles in banking with
old who attended a small, all-girls Catholic school for 12 years, I looked forward management division for the original First NBC/First Commerce Corp before
retirement plans, and institutions. She holds Regions Bank and the original First National Bank to a co-ed experience. I remember my grandfather tried to persuade me that becoming president of the New Orleans market for Regions Bank. Board work
the Certified Investment Management Analyst® of Commerce. She began her career in public Dominican College in New Orleans would be a perfect way to continue my has also been an important and satisfying part of my career, and I have served
certification, administered by the Investments and accounting with Arthur Andersen & Co., where she all-girls education, but I was having none of it, and at some point, he gently and continue to serve on several corporate boards, both public and private, as
Wealth Institute®. She is also a CPA – inactive. served as a partner and a member of the national stopped trying. I knew my all-girls education was invaluable for countless well as many non-profit boards.
reasons, but I felt it was time to move into the “real world.” Besides, my
estate and gift specialty team. Today, I lead ThirtyNorth Investments as we help families, institutions, and
Mestayer is a member of the Sanderson Farms, boyfriend and now longtime husband, Mike, was going to LSU as well!
retirement plan sponsors live their best financial lives and fulfill their purpose.
Inc. board of directors and the Pan American Life Mestayer received the Weiss Award for I decided to major in accounting, an atypical choice at that time for someone As I reflect on our firm’s mission statement and values, I am reminded of the
Insurance Group board of directors. She was humanitarian and civic contributions and a spot in like me. An aptitude test suggested I become a math teacher or an accountant, basics I learned at LSU about integrity, teamwork, standards of excellence,
previously a member of the board of McMoran the New Orleans Junior Achievement Business Hall and I knew absolutely nothing about accounting. No one in my support system putting others first, and contributing to the larger community.
Exploration Co. and the Federal Reserve Bank of of Fame. She has twice been recognized by the thought it was a good fit for me – not my parents, not my high school principal.
My time at LSU will always be with me. Thank you for this delightful and
I was certain, however, that I was not well suited to be a teacher, so I gave
Atlanta’s New Orleans branch. Louisiana Society of CPAs – with the Distinguished unexpected recognition. More importantly, thank you for the gift of a great
accounting a try. At a minimum, I knew it would be a different kind of challenge,
Public Service Award and the Outstanding CPA in education and for contributing so importantly to the many blessings of my life.
Suzanne has a deep commitment to local and and I relished the chance to do the unexpected. I am forever grateful for my
Business and Industry Award. inspiring LSU accounting professors, such as Dr. George Fair and Dr. Dan Kyle.
national community service. She is the past
Their classes captured my interest in accounting and, importantly, the potential
chairman and a continuing board member of Suzanne lives in New Orleans with her husband,
career path in public accounting. I also have fond memories of my finance
Ochsner Health, a multi-specialty health care system Mike Mestayer, also an LSU alum. They have two classes with Dr. David Crary, another wonderful educator. Little did I imagine
and Louisiana’s largest private employer. She is adult children, Melise (Jacob) and Michael (Arianna), that my career would ultimately lead to banking and investments.
treasurer of the National World War II Museum and will soon be welcoming a new granddaughter. LSU also gave me an introduction to the campus recruiting of the big eight
board and is past chairman of the Business Council firms. Compared to my women friends with other majors who were looking
of New Orleans and the River Region. She is also for jobs, this was a true luxury. During my 20 years in public accounting, I
2021 past chairman of Loyola University New Orleans,
Greater New Orleans, Inc., and United Way of
was able to annually return to recruit at LSU. In addition to the increased
poise and professionalism of the students over time, there was a noticeable
Nick Speyrer Reflections…
As founder and president of Emergent Method, Nick the Committee of 100 for Economic Development,
Speyrer is a proven, innovative professional who the Louisiana FFA Foundation, Capital Area United
There’s something unique about the spirit of LSU that’s hard to put your Emergent Method was launched in the summer of 2012, and we never imagined
leads a team of more than 130 full-time, part-time, Way, Woman’s Hospital Foundation Board of Directors,
finger on, but those who have walked the university’s hallowed halls and it would become what it is today. We’ve received numerous recognitions on the
and project-based team members who provide and the Ben Blanchard Memorial Foundation. Nick under its broad magnolias can feel the LSU spirit in their core. It’s a culture local, national, and international scale over the years, but our living legacy is our
unparalleled services to clients in the public, private, previously served as president of the Cancer Services of perseverance, resilience, and the desire to continue building a legacy that people – those who are with us today and those who have walked with us over
and non-profit sectors. Emergent Method was founded of Greater Baton Rouge Board of Directors. Nick was runs deep. Louisiana isn’t at the top of every list, but I strongly believe that the years, as well as our clients. Our achievements are shared; we recognize
in 2012, and under Nick’s leadership, the firm has recognized by the Greater Baton Rouge Business LSU alumni, and our shared passion for relentless improvement, pushing past that our own success is dependent upon our clients’ success.
obstacles, and proving others wrong, are a force to be reckoned with on and off
rapidly grown to become the leading management Report as the 2021 Young Businessperson of the Year As Emergent Method continues to grow, I’m proud that we add LSU alumni to
the field.
and strategy consulting firm in the region, with his work and a 2014 “Forty Under 40” recipient. In 2015, he was the team each year and build a company culture that celebrates a “love purple,
This type of gritty work ethic is something I first learned from my mom and dad. live gold” mentality. LSU graduates make up 60 percent of our core consulting
in particular focused around managing large-scale honored by The Emerge Center as a Baton Rouge
I grew up in rural St. Landry Parish, and my parents worked hard to support our team, in addition to countless other project-based staff. We will always be
organizational transformations, strategic planning, and Area Volunteer Activist. family and raise my four brothers and me. My mom was a nurse and worked Louisiana-based, but our work here has allowed us to expand into ten states
community outreach efforts for high-profile clients her way into hospital administration; my dad taught agriculture at the local high and counting. And I firmly believe the best is yet to come.
In 2016, Emergent Method was honored by the Greater
ranging from local and state government agencies to school. Together, they instilled in us the value of hard work, attention to detail,
Baton Rouge Business Report and Junior Achievement I’m honored and humbled to be among those joining the Hall of Distinction
regional not-for-profit organizations and Fortune 1000 and discipline. They didn’t just teach these values, they lived them, and I am
as Company of the Year, a recognizable benchmark of (although I’m not sure I’m deserving of the “young” title), a slate of leaders
eternally grateful for the example they set of constantly striving for success.
companies across 10 states and counting. that embody the value of constantly striving to be the best. This mindset was
the firm’s growth and success under Nick’s leadership.
I wanted to be an LSU Tiger since I was a kid, but I never dreamed that instilled in me by my parents, was sharpened and refined during my time at LSU,
Nick began his professional career as a consultant with Additionally, in 2018, 2019, and 2020, Emergent receiving my college acceptance letter would be the gateway to such a and is now one of the values that drives our team. It’s about doing right by our
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Atlanta, where he consulted Method was named one of the fastest-growing rewarding career. When I stop and think about it, each meaningful step I’ve partners, leaving our community better than we found it, and maintaining the
on efforts ranging from strategic growth, mergers private companies in America by Inc. Magazine, one taken has been connected to my relationships with a fellow tiger, beginning legacy of LSU.
and acquisitions, and outsourcing and procurement of the fastest growing consulting firms in the world by with my decision to enter LSU’s Center for Internal Auditing program during my
Lastly, to my daughters, Kate and Emily, you are my inspiration. I am so proud of
junior year, thanks to Jared Soileau. Through that program, I met Carol Calkins,
efforts for Fortune 100 companies to the design and Consulting Magazine, and was ranked in the LSU 100, you, and your mom and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for each of you.
who worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers, which led to an internship and my
implementation of operating and business models. which celebrates the 100 fastest growing Tiger-owned first full-time job. When I wanted to return to Louisiana, it was Jerry Jolly who And may thy spirit live in us, FOREVER LSU.
or Tiger-led businesses in the world. Emergent Method connected me with Bill and Christel Slaughter and allowed me to come home
Nick graduated summa cum laude from Louisiana State
has also been recognized as one of the Best Places to and sharpen my consulting skills before starting Emergent Method. John Snow
Outstanding Young Alum University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science
Work in Baton Rouge in 2017, 2018, and 2020 and in joined me a year later, and I couldn’t have built the company we have today
Award Recipient in Finance. In addition to his client involvement, Nick without him. There are hundreds of other LSU alumni whom I’ve worked with
2019 was named Company of the Year by the Louisiana
currently serves as a member of the Baton Rouge over the years that I’m grateful for – you know who you are, and I wouldn’t be
Association of Business and Industry (LABI).
2021
Area Foundation’s Board of Directors, the LSU E. J. here tonight without each of you.
Ourso College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council,Celebrating 25 Years of the E. J. Ourso College of Business Hall of Distinction
1996 1997 1998 1999 2004 2005 2006 2007
James C. Flores Aaron Beam Jr. U. J. LeGrange Randy L. Ewing Eduardo Aguirre Jr. Joseph L. Herring James M. Bernhard Jr. Laura A. Leach
Robert S. Greer Sr. J Terrell Brown A. Emmet Stephenson E. R. Campbell John C. Hamilton Patricia C. Hewlett James E. Maurin Ross J. Centanni
Susan M. Phillips Robert F. Kelley Carol M. Calkins Ronald A. Laborde William S. “Bill” Slaughter III Bartholomew F. Palmisano Jeffrey N. Springmeyer Doyle Z. Williams
G. Lee Griffin Bernard F. Sliger
William W. Rucks IV
2000 2001 2002 2003 2008 2009 2010 2011
Herman J. Lowe Julian & Sidney Carruth D. Martin Phillips Roger H. Ogden James D. Shelton Roy O. Martin III Thomas J. Adamek Shaquille O’Neal
Norman V. Kinsey Jake L. Netterville Kay G. Priestly John Q. Barnidge Peggy B. Scott Jonathan E. Martin Jerry E. Shea Jr. Dave Steiner
Joseph H. Campbell E. Robert Theriot III Harry T. Hawks Joseph “Jerry” Jolly Edward A. Landry Richard E. Matheny Christel C. Slaughter David Bondy
Kerry D. Brandon Frederick E. Wolfert Kathryn M. Sullivan Maurice J. Coleman Donald J. Gauci Teri Fontenot
Richard Gill Eddie J. Jones William F. Borne David L. Laxton III Hank Danos2012 2013 2014 2015
Rolfe H. McCollister Jr. William Balhoff Gregory J. Hamer Sr. Richard Sturlese
Sue W. Turner Toni Stephenson Rose J. Hudson Dale Redman
Anthony B. Ravani Robert Stuart John R. Landon Matt McCarroll
Joseph C. Winkler
2016 2017 2018 2019
Steven C. Walker Sarah R. Borders Claire L. Cagnolatti Marcela Donadio
James O. Harp Jr. James C. Parr Maurice “Skip” Robichaux III Robert Schneckenburger
Fernando M. Guerrero David B. Songy Jeff Zehnder
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