FRIENDS OF LPB HONORS SIX LOUISIANA LEGENDS AT THE 2025 AWARDS GALA

The 2025 Louisiana Legends Gala began with a cocktail reception in the rotunda of Louisiana’s Old State Capitol, followed by an elegant dinner in the Senate Chamber. Guests then participated in a live auction featuring some of the most sought-after items from the Louisiana Legends online auction. LPB President and CEO, Clarence "C.C" Copeland, expressed gratitude to the bidders, sponsors, and Friends of LPB members, highlighting that every dollar raised directly supports meaningful change—demonstrating the strength and passion of the Louisiana community.
The Gala continued with the Louisiana Legends Awards Ceremony that was broadcast live statewide from the Old State Capitol's House Chamber. The ceremony began with a recorded welcome from Paula de la Bretonne, whose family was honored as a Louisiana Legend in 2023. The Legends Awards Ceremony included video biographies about each honoree followed by heartfelt remarks from each of the 2025 inductees. The ceremony was co-hosted by John Denison, past Board Member of Friends of LPB, and Dr. Robyn Merrick, Vice President of External Affairs for the Southern University System, and Board Member of the Foundation for Excellence in Louisiana Public Broadcasting.

The Louisiana Legends Awards Ceremony may be streamed at lpb.org/legendsgala2025. Louisiana Legends Chairperson, Rannah Gray, stated, "The 2025 Louisiana Legends Awards Gala and Ceremony serves as a powerful testament to how Louisiana Public Broadcasting brings our state together. By sharing the inspiring stories of these six distinguished honorees, we not only celebrate their remarkable achievements but also foster a deep sense of pride within our statewide community." Friends of LPB Chair, Bo Harris, remarked, "Tonight, we come together to honor six extraordinary individuals whose impact on Louisiana will resonate for generations to come." He further explained his support for LPB, saying, "I support Louisiana Public Broadcasting because I believe in its mission. LPB is more than just a broadcaster—it is a trusted voice, an educator, and a unifying thread that connects communities across our state. It tells our stories, preserves our culture, and fosters a space where we can all learn and grow together."

The 2025 Louisiana Legends:
Claire Babineaux-Fontenot is dedicated to combating hunger and strengthening communities. Her service in social justice and humanitarian efforts is emblematic of her commitment to working alongside people experiencing food insecurity to create solutions to end hunger. Since 2018, Fontenot has served as the CEO of Feeding America, the largest charity in the United States. Fontenot was named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2020 and was among Forbes 50 over 50 in 2022.

Judi Betts is an internationally acclaimed watercolor painter, instructor, juror, and author. Her work has been exhibited in invitational exhibitions in Nanjing and Shanghai, China; Japan; Taiwan; Canada; and galleries across the United States. She has conducted workshops in 48 states and 10 foreign countries and has received several awards including the Louisiana Governor’s Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award from The Watercolor USA Honor Society.

Dan Borné has a distinguished career across media, government, education, industry, and healthcare. He retired as President of the Louisiana Chemical Association and has held significant roles with the Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance and the Louisiana Foundation for Excellence in Science, Technology, and Education. Borné has led efforts in economic education and community welfare. His passion for LSU athletics shines through in his long-standing role as the public address announcer at Tiger Stadium and the Pete Maravich Assembly Center.

John H. Dalton was appointed the 70th Secretary of the Navy in 1993 by President Clinton and was honored with the 1997 International Security Leadership Award from the National Security Caucus. In 1977, President Carter nominated him to lead the Government National Mortgage Association. Dalton is an inductee of the LSU Alumni Hall of Distinction. In 2016, he was awarded the Distinguished Graduate Award from the United States Naval Academy and serves as an emeritus member of the Board of Directors of the White House Historical Association.

The Goldring Family, through their foundation, generously funds non-profit organizations in Greater New Orleans whose missions encourage environmental sustainability, animal welfare, arts and culture, civil affairs, educational and recreational opportunities for children, human services, health, and Jewish causes. Bill Goldring is Chairman of The Goldring Family Foundation, as well as Sazerac Company, one of New Orleans' oldest, largest, and most successful family businesses, producing over 500 brands of spirits, many of which are sold worldwide.

Doug Williams began his football career at Grambling State University, mentored by the iconic coach, Eddie Robinson. In 1978, Williams made history by being selected 17th overall in the NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, becoming the first African American quarterback chosen in the first round. Later, he joined the Washington Redskins (now Washington Commanders), where he led the team to victory in Super Bowl XXII in 1988. From 1998 to 2003, and then again from 2011 to 2013, Williams served as head coach of his alma mater, Grambling State University. He is an inductee of the College Football Hall of Fame, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Ring of Honor, and the Washington Commanders Ring of Fame.

They join a prestigious list of 167 past Louisiana Legends that includes a remarkable roster featuring Academy and Grammy Award winners, a Nobel Laureate, legendary athletes, world-renowned chefs, and influential public figures, including two former U.N. Ambassadors. The Louisiana Legends Auction, featuring more than 90 items, including items donated by the honorees, is open until Sunday, May 18 at 11:59PM at lpb.org/auction. The auction showcases original works of art including works by Clementine Hunter, unique experiences including a turkey hunt with LSU and NFL greats, Bo Harris and Kevin Mawae, an LSU Golden Girls Experience, suite tickets to a Dallas Cowboys Preseason Game, Andrea Bocelli VIP Experience, and much more.

Special thanks to Gala Presenting Sponsor, The Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation; and Gala Platinum Sponsors, The William Dore' Family, Community Renewal International, and the Washington Commanders Foundation. Additional major sponsors for the event are Gala Benefactors: Paula and Jacques de la Bretonne, Diamondback Industries, Bo Harris Wealth Management, Louisiana Chemical Association, Louisiana Lottery, RoyOMartin, and The J.K. Meek Group at Graystone Consulting. Gala Stars include Autobahn Fort Worth, b1BANK, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, Louise & Mike Bruce, Jones Walker LLP, LAMAR Advertising, D. Marty Phillips, Doctors Saundra and Stephen McGuire, and Remington Hotel Suite & Spa. Gala Patrons include Citizens Bank & Trust, Rannah Gray, Andrea and Wally McMakin, JPMorganChase, Kristie Thomas, and Howard White.

Begun in 1990, the Louisiana Legends Awards Gala & Auction is a fundraising and public awareness project that draws support and participation from citizens across the state who appreciate the quality educational and cultural programs offered by Louisiana Public Broadcasting. The Louisiana Legends are selected each year by the Friends of LPB Louisiana Legends Board Committee, comprised of volunteer representatives from around the state.

For more information, contact Terri A. Crockett, Executive Director of Friends of LPB, at 800.272.8161 ext. 4464 or 225.767.4464 or e-mail tcrockett@lpb.org. Please visit lpb.org/legends to learn more about Louisiana Legends.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Terri Crockett
Executive Director
Friends of LPB
225.767.4464
tcrockett@lpb.org