April 10, 2025
Jayden Allridge
SOUTH TERREBONNE HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Mr. Chris Brown
SOUTH TERREBONNE HIGH SCHOOL
Coach Brown is my inspiring mentor, the catalyst who converted an early passion for science into an intense and achievable aspiration. Ever since I was about nine, I had envisioned myself doing something related to science or STEM. Coach Brown's class solidified and rekindled my love for science. His lectures were engaging and thought-provoking, and his style of teaching was more appealing to me than any other instructors. He never dumbed down a lesson, but he also never made something more complex than it had to be. His sarcastic, snarky demeanor made class even more enjoyable and pushed me to do my best. He was never hesitant to assist those who asked for it. His class made me realize my passion and talent for both chemistry and biology, ultimately cementing my decision to pursue biomedical engineering.
Jayden Allridge
Tonilyn Pinell
SOUTH TERREBONNE HIGH SCHOOL
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms.KramerBailey
Ms. Kramer taught me geometry during my sophomore year of high school. Immediately from the first day, she brought in this welcoming energy and was ready to help any student that needed it. Not only did she create this safe space for students in regard to education, but also in their day-to-day lives. At any given time, she is always there, whether it is to vent or seek advice. Whenever any student, past or present, asks her to attend one of their sports events, she does everything in her power to go out and support her students doing what they love. When people ask me to describe her, my response is that she is like my “school mom”. She has taught me so many valuable leadership skills . She has shown me what it is like to put on these important community events and everything that goes on behind the scenes, giving me a better understanding and appreciation for all of the hard work teachers add onto their plate. Overall, Ms. Kramer has created a lifelong impact on my life that I will never forget and will forever be grateful for.
SOUTH TERREBONNE HIGH SCHOOL
Tonilyn Pinell
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
Lexus Leffingwell
H.L. BOURGEOIS HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms.GuidryMichelle
H.L. BOURGEOIS HIGH SCHOOL
I met Mrs. Guidry my Sophomore year, she was my Biology teacher. I felt comfortable enough to speak to her about my vision disability. Mrs. Guidry encouraged me to do well on my Leap test and I managed to get a Mastery, which I thought was impossible. Even now as a senior, I find myself going talk to her very regularly. She encourages me and motivates me! She has definitely been a huge inspiration in my high school years! I am very thankful to have met her and that I had her as a teacher!
Lexus Leffingwell
Samantha Krieg
H.L.BOURGEOIS HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
Samantha Krieg
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms. Jeri Overley
H.L. BOURGEOIS HIGH SCHOOL
Mrs. Overley is the kind of teacher who doesn’t just teach but empowers her students to grow. When I walked into her class last year, I had always been confident in any assignment I turned in, but I received a D on my first essay from her. I was stunned. I couldn’t recall ever getting less than a B on an essay before and seeing the red marks covering my paper brought tears to my eyes. It was a harsh reality check, but instead of letting me be upset, Mrs. Overley lifted me up. She sat with me, explaining where I went wrong and showing me exactly what I needed to improve on. At first, I felt defeated, but looking back, it was the best thing that could have happened to me. Earning a D made me work harder for anything I ever had to before. I am honored to have been her student, and I hope she knows the lasting impact she has made on my life.
Tyden Eschete
TERREBONNE HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
Tyden Eschete
&INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms. Brittany Champagne
LISA PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Ms. Brittany Champagne was my 3rd grade homeroom and English teacher and I loved her class greatly. I felt like I was never really understood until I was in her class. Miss B was the first teacher I had that truly understood me. 3rd grade was also the year I got admitted into the Gifted program, and I owe part of that to Miss B. School wasn’t the best for me, but thanks to her I started enjoying school and connecting to English quickly because of her. Words cannot express my gratitude for all that Miss B was responsible for in my life. Thank you for giving me a chance and teaching me. It was an honor to be your student.
Eber Gonzalez
LOUIS MILLER TERREBONNE CAREER AND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL/ ELLENDER MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
Eber Gonzalez
&INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Mr. David Raffray
LOUIS MILLER TERREBONNE CAREER AND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL
Mr Raffray has always been a person to follow. He would tell us his life story, giving us advice that would set us on a path of good. He is a very kind, fair and intelligent man; he has taught us everything he knows for us to be successful. He is a man to respect because of his life experiences, his military portfolio and the success he has had in his professional career, I know that if I need help, he will give it to me. I will miss Mr. David Raffray for all that he has done for me. He has impacted my life and for that I am grateful.
Victoria Duong
ELLENDER MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms. Kimberly Randolph
OAKLAWN MIDDLE SCHOOL
Ms. Randolph is dedicated and passionate about teaching. As a former student of Ms. Randolph, she has always gone above and beyond for her students and always made learning engaging and purposeful. Her curriculum allowed us to think critically and creatively which helped us prepare for high school as well as shape our perspective on other real-life situations. The sole ability of connecting with each student on a personal level creating a nurturing and inclusive environment shows her commitment for not only teaching but to the student at hand. It is evident to see how much she loves teaching by the way she spends her time incorporating relevant topics in her lessons to not only motivate students but ignite their curiosity to think beyond the standards. Her continuous support and dedication inspiring students impacted my academic journey and growth as a person, making her a true inspirational educator in my life.
Victoria Duong
Isabella Andino
ELLENDER MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
Isabella Andino
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms. Daphne Daigle
VILLAGE EAST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Ms. Daigle has been teaching for so many years and her love continues to grow. She was my teacher in first grade at Honduras elementary school and has been by my family’s side since. I grew up telling my parents it was my biggest wish to be just like her when I grew up. She has ALWAYS been my definition of a powerful woman, and for her selfless heart I admire her. She has had struggles of her own and she continued to be there for me. Through rough kids, loosing friends and medical struggles she has endlessly shown strength! She often checks in with me and my mother showing unwavering support and love, making a lasting impact on my life. Ms. Daigle is more than just a teacher; she inspires. Olive juice Ms. Daigle!
Andrew Schilling
LOUIS MILLER TERREBONNE CAREER AND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL/ H.L BOURGEOIS HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
&
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Mr. Doug Walling
LOUIS MILLER TERREBONNE CAREER AND TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL
Since the day I walked into Mr. Walling’s class, he has motivated me to do my best in every aspect of my life. He has changed my life forever by helping shape my character into becoming a hardworking, successful, respectful, and Godly person. His guidance has led me to achieve things that I had not thought possible. He pushed me beyond all my limits and always believed in me. In the past, when I thought that I could not achieve my goals, I would give up and be hard on myself. Mr. Walling never gave up on me and continued to motivate me. He taught me that I could do anything.
I use to let my personal struggles hold me back. Mr. Walling has taught me that disabilities do not define a person. With his guidance, I have overcome my fear of speaking to others, especially in the areas of automotive technology. His passion and devotion to his students is beyond anything I ever expected from a teacher. He genuinely cares for students, and pushes them to be the best version of themselves.
Andrew Schilling
MariaManungaSarmiento
ELLENDER MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR
ManungaSarmiento
INSPIRATIONAL EDUCATOR
Ms.JeffcoatWendy
VILLAGE EAST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
She’s the one teacher I can talk to. In addition to being the librarian, she’s also the BETA sponsor. During my time there she went above and beyond to keep the program club running and it’s still running successfully. Some of the best memories in elementary school were in her library. Whether it was the book fair, going for planning, or just hanging out , I always had a good time. My favorite part about her library was volunteering to sing songs with the younger kids. Ms. Jeffcoat was the best librarian a kid could have in elementary school. All these years later, I still appreciate the impact she has had on my life.
Maria
Tonia Cook
ACADIAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Charles Bergeron
CALDWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL
Markita Grant
ELLENDER MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL
Beth Olivier
MULBERRY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Nicole LeCompte
MONTEGUT MIDDLE SCHOOL
Aldrian Smith
H. L. BOURGEOIS HIGH SCHOOL
RECIPIENT OF THE 2025 JAMES J. BUQUET, JR. AWARD OF DISTINCTION
RECIPIENT OF THE 2025 JAMES J. BUQUET, JR. AWARD OF DISTINCTION
The James J. Buquet, Jr. Award is presented to a Terrebonne Parish Public High School graduate. The award winner is recognized for vision and excellence in a chosen field or other areas of personal endeavor. This individual has provided service unselfishly to his or community, state, nation or internationally.
The James J. Buquet, Jr Award was established by the Terrebonne Foundation for Academic Excellence in 2008 to honor Mr. Buquet’s commitment to public education.
"The level of education that we give our children will influence the quality of life in our community. Remember, they are our citizens and leaders of tomorrow."
- James J. Buquet, Jr.
PAST RECIPIENTS:
JAMES J. BUQUET, JR, MARY COSPER LEBOEUF, BARRY MELANCON, DR. MARY ESCHETE, CLIFFORD SMITH, THE HONORABLE STANWOOD DUVAL, DR. CRAIG WALKER, ROBERT “BOBBY” BOUDREAUX, CHARLES K. “CHUCK” WEAVER, HUNT DOWNER, JR., JAMES CHARLES, PAUL LABAT, JONATHAN FORET, KEN WELLS, & REUBEN WILLIAMS
The Academic Excellence Fund is an endowed fund, which assures our donors that the principal will never be spent. Interest from this fund serves as a perpetual funding source for grants and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
The Academic Excellence Fund is an endowed fund, which assures our donors that the principal will never be spent. Interest from this fund serves as a perpetual funding source for grants and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
ACADEMIC DISTINCTION
GIFTS
$100,000 & ABOVE
James J. Buquet, Jr. Family Foundation Fund
(In memory of James J. Buquet, Jr., in memory of Diana D. and James J. Buquet, in memory of Hazel F. and Lee J. Castagnos)
Jim & Glenda Harper Fund
Michael X. & Mary
Virginia Rayne St. Martin
(In memory of Hugh Paul St. Martin, MD.) (In memory of Rhea St. Martin)
South Louisiana Bank
(In memory of Robert W. Bourg)
T. Baker Smith, Inc.
(In memory of Mrs. Julie H. Toups)
(In honor of Clifford & JoAnne Smith)
NAMED ENDOWMENT DONORS
$45,000-$74,999
APACHE Corporation
Linda, Bobby and Paul Burguieres
(In memory of Chapman "Bumper" Burguieres III)
Capital One Bank
Cenac Towing Company, Inc.
(In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Ovide J. Cenac)
Pedestal Bank
Mr. and Mrs. James E. Gueydan
Tony and Char Herques
Houma Oilman’s Fishing Invitational
Regions Bank
SEACOR Marine, LLC
Synergy Bank
Terrebonne Ford/Barker
Automotive Dealerships
The Rotary Club of Houma
(In memory of Ron Gautreaux and Doug Stire)
H. E. Trapp, Jr.
(In memory of H. E. Trapp, Sr.)
Weatherford
Whitney Bank
5K Run for Excellence & Food Fest
Best of the Bayou Music Foundation
FOUNDER’S CLUB
$25,000-$44,999
Robert & Suzanne
Alexander
Brian & Marianne
Matherne
Chet Morrison Contractors, Inc.
CHARTER INVESTORS
$10,000-$24,999
AT&T LA
Elton A. Darsey
Arthur & Helen DeFraites
The Gray Foundation
MidSouth Bank
Richard & Judy Haydel
John D. & Barbara Morris
Petroleum Laboratories, Inc.
John & Diane Sontheimer
Terminix Pest Control, Inc.
The Investment Group
Dale Thompson, Sr.
Ken & Yolanda Trahan
Watkins, Walker, & Eroche, APLC
Mr. & Mrs. Reuben Williams
ACADEMIC SPONSORS
$500-$9.999
Mr. & Mrs Mark Felger, Felger Footwear
Anonymous Donors (2) Benoit Machines
Michael and Tamara Bergeron
(In memory of Claude & Kathy Bergeron)
Sharon Roppolo Bergeron
Bourgeois & Associates
Bourgeois, Bennett, LLC, CPAs
James & Sinclair Buquet
Suzanne Nolfo Carlos
Chevron Companies
Dr. & Mrs. Ray Cinnater
Community Coffee
Company Foundation
B.J. Corte
The Courier
Reggie Dupre, Jr.
Mr. & Mrs. C. Berwick Duval
Dr. & Mrs. S. E. Ellender, Jr.
Fabregas Music Store
Dr. & Mrs. David R. Fakier & Family
Mike Fakier & Kurt Fakier Families
Ferber Foundation of the Jewish Endowment Foundation
Michael Fesi II
Len Fontaine, Jr./Acadia Financial Group, Inc.
Leslie Jacobs
Robert E. & L. A. Kelton, Jr.
Catherine B. Kosior
(In memory of L. J. Bilello)
LP&L
LA Coca-Cola Bottling Company
Thomas & Rebecca Lanaux
Travis & Kaye Lavigne
Mark, Margaret, Anna, & Laura Lee
Hartwell A. Lewis
Lloyd’s Remedies
Family & Friends of Terry J. Martin
Keith & Kathy Mazerac
(In honor of Kameron Mazerac)
Mr. & Mrs. Barry Melancon
Mr. & Mrs. Jerome Mire
Mr. & Mrs. Michael Pellegrin
Family & Friends
of Lucy P. Porche
George & Melanie Ribble
Mr. & Mrs. Ed Richard, Jr.
Family & Friends of
Wayne J. Riche
John & Lisa Rogers
Rotary Club of Houma-Terrebonne Sangisetty
Voice of the Wetlands
Dr. & Mrs. Thomas E. Weed Rene & Marsha Williams
HONORARIUMS
Allayne Barrilleaux, Ph. D.
FRIENDS OF THE ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FUND
TFAE gratefully acknowledges those who have donated “In Memory Of” the individuals below:
Mr. Kenneth Barrilleaux
Mrs. Ruby Bascle
Mr. Cecil J. Bordelon
Mr. Elward Brady
Mrs. Adelaide Braud
Mr. Richard A. Breaux
Mr. James J. Buquet, Jr.
Mr. James Cockrell
Mrs. Julia Dudek
Mrs. Geralyn Dunckleman
Mrs. Ruth France
Mr. David LeCompte
Mr. Hartwell Lewis
Mrs. Gloria Marcello
Mr. Terry J. Martin
Mrs. Ruth McCaa
Mr. Early McElroy
Mrs. Ethel Melancon
Mrs. Elise Scroggin Mixon
Mr. John Fitzhugh Morris
Mrs. Dan Percle
Mr. Geralto J. Vita
Mr. Warren Wilder
The Foundation’s Directors personally believe that the Foundation, through the efforts of concerned parents, community members, and teachers at the grass roots level, has the greatest potential to make a direct impact on successful student learning.
Our board of directors volunteer their time and talents, working in conjunction with the public school district, to elevate the quality of education in our parish. We are honored to have committed community leaders serve as our board of directors.
Winnie Pellegrin
President Retired Educator
Rusty Bourg Vice President Synergy Bank
Steven Barbera Past President Regions Bank
Jennifer Smith Chiasson
Secretary T. Baker Smith
Mark Felger
Treasurer Felger's Footwear
Ricky Murphy Retired
Glenny Lee Buquet Community Leader
Alexandra Casey Lizotte Community Leader
Brian Arceneaux United Community Bank
Ana Nanney Fletcher Technical Community College
Tommy Guarisco Downtown Jeaux
Josh Jones Hancock Whitney Bank
George Robichaux Retired
Daniel J. Walker Retired
E. Stan Gravois Terrebonne General Health System
Arlanda Williams Delgado Community College
Mary Ditch Vandebilt Catholic High School
Stock the Classroom Grant:
$37,500
Jill Monnier, Acadian Elementary School • Alyssa Bosworth, Acadian Elementary School • April Chauvin, Acadian Elementary School • Robyn Breaux, Broadmoor Elementary School • Danielle Halbrook, Broadmoor Elementary School • Brittany Cole, Broadmoor Elementary School • Brandi Andrews, Broadmoor Elementary School • Danielle Sallean, Broadmoor Elementary School • Claire Simmons, Coteau-Bayou Blue Elementary School • Mary (Midge) Chaisson, Coteau-Bayou Blue Elementary School • Kami Babin, Dularge Elementary School • Erin Lovil, Dularge Elementary School • Whitney Walker, Dularge Elementary School • Marlene Staidum, Ellender Memorial High School • Breanna Parfait, Ellender Memorial High School • Mindy Kreller, Evergreen Junior High School • Nicole Hawthorne, Grand Caillou Elementary School • Anadee McGee, Grand Caillou Elementary School • Megan Champagne, H. L. Bourgeois High School • Bridget Madere, H. L. Bourgeois High School • Ashley Dunne, H. L. Bourgeois High School • Emily Thormas, Houma Junior High School • Christy Badeaux, Houma Junior High School • Jeremey Zeringue, Houma Junior High School • Angelle Domangue, LaCache Middle School & Montegut Middle School • Simonne Lanigan, LaCache Middle School • Patricia Rodrigue, LaCache Middle School • Summer Skarke, LaCache Middle School • Annie Lirette, LaCache Middle School • Cynthian Cunningham, LaCache Middle School • Michelle Clement, LaCache Middle School • Tiffany Starks, Legion Park Elementary School • Tiffany Starks, Legion Park Elementary School • Victoira Boquet, Legion Park Elementary School • Donna Dupre, Montegut Middle Scool • Amy LeCompte, Montegut Middle School • Dena Nettleton, Mulberry Elementary School • Carley Liner, Mulberry Elementary School • Tracie Ekiss, Mulberry Elementary School • Jessica Scott, Oaklawn Middle School • Steven Babin, Oaklawn Middle School • Christina Oubre, Schriever Elementary School • Kaitlyn Meche, Southdown Elementary School • Meagan Legendre, Southdown Elementary School • Melissa Moreau, Southdown Elementary School • Tara Portier, Southdown Elementary School • Yolanda Scott Lewis, Southdown Elementary School • Meagan Legendre, Southdown Elementary School • Jenny LeBoeuf, Upper Little Caillou Elementary School • Annette Foret, Village East Elementary School • April Marcel, Dularge Elementary School • Ashley Boudreaux, Dularge Elementary School • Ashley Hebert, Montegut Middle School • Bailee DeHart, Grand Caillou Elementary School • Carley Liner, Mulberry Elementary School • Catherine White, Bourg Elementary School • Christina Oubre, Schriever Elementary School• Crystal Dumond, Grand Caillou Elementary School • Danette DesLatte, Montegut Middle School • Edwin Gonzalez, Ellender Memorial High School • Heather Smith, Evergreen Junior High School • Heather Guidry, Terrebonne High School • Hollyn Davis, Acadian Elementary School • Kimberly Lirette, Terrebonne High School • Kira Loup, H. L. Bourgeois High School • Kristen Potter, Schriever Elementary School • Lana Dancer, School for the Exceptional Children • Molly LeBoeuf, Evergreen Junior High School • Paige Billiot, Bourg Elementary School • Rochanne George, Ellender Memorial High School • Sheri Constant, Mulberry Elementary School • Stefanie Morgan, H. L. Bourgeois High School • Thea Picou, Montegut Middle School • Whitney Fairchild, Broadmoor Elementary School
Amberly Molinere, Upper Little Caillou Elementary School • Tenicka Dobson, Southdown Elementary School • Gabrielle Pierron, Acadian Elementary School • Ashley Dunne, H. L. Bourgeois High School • Gabrielle Blanchard, Montegut Elementary School • Claire Brower, Upper Little Calliou Elementary School • Amelia LeBoeuf, Broadmoor Elementary School • Jaycee Herrera, Village East Elementary School • Caroline Parfait, Ellender Memorial High School • Ariel Theriot, Acadian Elementary School • Amelia LeBoeuf, Broadmoor Elementary School
