Three outstanding students in the LSU College of Agriculture were chosen to represent the LSU Tiger Twelve Class of 2023. The Tiger Twelve is a prestigious campus-wide program that celebrates a group of exceptional undergraduate seniors who have made significant contributions to campus life at LSU and have had a positive impact on the Baton Rouge community.
Avery Hebert, an agribusiness major from Erath, was involved in numerous campus activities, including LSU Student Government and College of Agriculture Les Voyageurs.
"It's hard to put into words what receiving this recognition means to me. I have aspired to be in Tiger Twelve since I was a freshman. It is such an incredible feeling to be affirmed in this manner for my accomplishments, dedication, and service to LSU and the surrounding community, my community back home, and the entire state of Louisiana," Hebert said.
Jackson Martingayle, a natural resource ecology and management major from Virginia Beach, Virginia, was a decorated student-athlete and undergraduate researcher in the Department of Renewable Natural Resources. In addition to the honor of Tiger Twelve, Martingayle was named the Southeastern Conference H. Boyd McWhorter Scholar-Athlete of the Year for the 2022-23 academic year, the highest honor earned by a student-athlete in the SEC.
"Receiving this recognition means a lot to me because it acknowledges all of the hard work I have done while at LSU," Martingayle said. "It recognizes the balance that I have strived so hard to maintain for four years of academics, athletics, service and fun." Zachary Mayfield, from Slidell, graduated with a degree in agricultural and extension education. He held leadership positions in various organizations and expressed gratitude for the guidance he received from faculty and staff.
"Being selected as part of the Tiger Twelve Class of 2023 lets me know that all of the hard work, long hours, involvement and working to leave campus a better place than I found has finally been rewarded," Mayfield said. "It is so surreal that everything I have done has been appreciated but more so recognized through this achievement."
As Pam Vinci retires as the director of the LSU Textiles and Costume Museum, the baton has been passed to Michael Mamp, who assumes the role of museum curator, entrusted with carrying forward Vinci's legacy and ensuring the continued preservation and celebration of textile heritage.
With a remarkable career spanning decades, Vinci leaves behind a lasting impact on the museum and its community. As a tireless champion for textile preservation, her legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
Under her watchful eye, the museum flourished, growing from humble beginnings to a treasure trove of cultural artifacts. Vinci's unwavering dedication led to transformative milestones, securing grants for specialized preservation systems and captivating exhibitions.
Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her passion and dedication will continue to inspire future endeavors in preserving the rich history woven into every thread. Annabelle Lang
From left, Jackson Martingayle; Matt Lee, vice president for agriculture and dean; Avery Hebert; and Zachary Mayfield. Photo by Annabelle Lang
Pam Vinci’s accomplishments and retirement were celebrated by the Friends of the Textiles and Costume Museum and the Department of Textiles, Apparel Design and Merchandising during their spring reception held at the Old Governor’s Mansion. Photo by Annabelle Lang