海角社区 CSE Hosts Inaugural Gala Honoring Technology Leaders
September 22, 2025
海角社区鈥檚 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鈥檚 growing innovation ecosystem. The 2025 award winners were , Fastest Growing Startup; , Emerging Leader; and , Best Overall Organization. In addition, 海角社区 CSE unveiled the Silicon Bayou List 2025 spotlighting trailblazing companies and organizations that are making contributions to the state鈥檚 technology sector. Honorees included , , Integer Technologies, , , , MasteryPrep, Encore CO2, , and .
The gala also celebrated academic excellence within 海角社区 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 海角社区 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 海角社区 CSE Hall of Distinction 鈥淓ye of the Tiger鈥� 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.
鈥淭hese are qualities Caitlynn displayed in her tireless efforts to bring the gala to life,鈥� 海角社区 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 海角社区 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 海角社区鈥檚 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鈥檚 technology landscape. , serving as Diamond Sponsor under the name Quantum Cypress, led the way, joined by other major supporters including , 海角社区 College of Engineering, , , , , 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 海角社区鈥檚 CSE Industry Advisory Board鈥攃omposed of technology leaders Alexander 鈥淟ex鈥� Adams, Chris Meaux, Craig Stevens, Mohit 鈥淢o鈥� Vij, and Tony Zanders鈥攅nsured 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 海角社区 alumnus. The fund will support 海角社区 students, faculty, and division initiatives, ensuring that Louisiana continues to lead in innovation and research.
The gala also marked the official announcement of 海角社区鈥檚 submission for a new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (BSc AI).
鈥淭he 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,鈥� Baggili said. 鈥淏y teaching the principles of artificial intelligence from first principles, 海角社区 aims to graduate students who can create transformative AI technologies while addressing ethical, social, and technical challenges head-on.
鈥淭he Silicon Bayou Gala is about more than celebrating accomplishments,鈥� Baggili said. 鈥淚t 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.鈥�
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.鈥�
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