LU alumni, faculty members honored as 2024 Southeast Texas 40 Under 40 honorees

September 27, 2024 | by April Thompson

Fifteen Lamar University alumni and one faculty member have been named as 40 Under 40 honorees by the Southeast Texas Young Professionals Organization for 2024. This recognition celebrates the achievements and leadership of 40 individuals under the age of 40, with Lamar University alumni and faculty making up a significant portion of this year’s class.40 Under 40 Logo

“Consistently, Lamar University graduates are among the most impactful young leaders in a broad range of industries. They innovate, forge partnerships, solve problems, blaze trails, and serve their community selflessly,” Director of Alumni Affairs and Advancement Services Shannon Figueroa said. “I and the rest of the Lamar University community are so proud to see our alumni being recognized for their talents and the leadership they provide in our community through the annual Southeast Texas Young Professionals Organization 40 Under 40 award.” 

The 15 Lamar University alumni honorees include:

  • Ariana Bates (B.S. Communication, 2017; M.Ed. Administration, 2021) – Instructional Coach at Port Acres Elementary, Port Arthur ISD
  • Brandi Verdine (B.S. Communication, 2018; MBA, 2024) – Payroll Coordinator at Lamar University
  • Carmyn Thompson (B.S. Communication Disorders, 2013; M.S. Speech-Language Pathology, 2016) – Instructor of Speech and Hearing Sciences at Lamar University
  • The Honorable Christian Manuel – Texas State Representative for District 22 (attended LU from 2013-2016)
  • Erin Lovelady-Lemoine (B.S. Kinesiology, 2008) – Director of Pre-Award and Sponsor Project Development at Lamar University’s Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
  • Farren Morris (B.S. Family and Consumer Sciences - Interior Design, 2012) – Owner of Latimors Hair Studio and Hair Specialist for the Houston Rockets
  • Hannah LeTulle (B.S. Communication-Corporate, 2018) – Director of Communications at Lamar Institute of Technology
  • Jeanna Gonzales (B.S. Communication, 2017) – Senior District Executive at Three Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America
  • Jessica Schneider (B.S. Nursing, 2015; M.Ed. Administration, 2021) – Principal of Fred Elementary School, Warren ISD; Owner of Maroon Ridge Event Venue and Triple D Ranch
  • Latesha Hunter (B.S. Health Education, 2017) – Health Services Administrator at Buckner Retirement Services
  • Makenzie Coplen (BBA Human Resource Management, 2020; MBA, 2023) – Director of Human Resources at G&G Enterprises
  • Megan Hanks (B.S. Exercise Science & Fitness Management, 2015) – Business/Community Development Supervisor at Neches Federal Credit Union
  • Olivia Douglas (M.Ed. School Counseling, 2020) – College, Career, and Military Readiness Coordinator at Beaumont United High School, Beaumont ISD
  • Tieranny Decuir (B.S. Criminal Justice, 2016) – Instructor of Paralegal Studies/Paralegal Program Co-Director at Lamar State College Port Arthur
  • Vernice Rosales (BBA Human Resource Management, 2012; MBA Management, 2023) – Director of Human Resources and Risk Management for Jefferson County

Among the honorees is Dr. Judson LaGrone, PhD, RN, CVRN-BC, a faculty member and instructor at Lamar University. 

The awards the impact Lamar University alumni and faculty have on the Southeast Texas region, highlighting their leadership and community involvement across various industries.

For more information about the Southeast Texas 40 Under 40 award, including a full list of past honorees, visit setxypo.org/40-under-40.