Ruston, LA – Louisiana Tech University is gearing up for its upcoming Winter Commencement ceremony, and this year’s keynote speaker holds a special connection to the event. Dr. Les Guice, who served as the university’s 14th president for a decade, will address the graduating class, marking a significant milestone in his longstanding relationship with the institution.
Scheduled for Saturday, March 2 at 10 a.m. in the Thomas Assembly Center on the Tech campus, the Winter Commencement will witness Dr. Guice stepping into a new role, that of the keynote speaker, after having been a student, faculty member, and administrator at the university over the past 50 years.
“Dr. Guice was remarkably effective at building authentic connections with students, and there is no better person to pour into these graduates one more time than the president who served them during their academic journey,” remarked Louisiana Tech President Jim Henderson.
In addition to Dr. Guice’s keynote address, the ceremony will also honor Jeanette and Justin Hinckley, esteemed supporters of Louisiana Tech, who will be recognized as the newest Tower Medallion recipients. The Tower Medallion Award, bestowed by the Louisiana Tech Alumni Association, recognizes outstanding alumni who have excelled in their careers and made significant contributions to their communities.
Justin Hinckley, a 1978 graduate in computer science, was previously named Tech’s Alumnus of the Year in 2010, while Jeanette Hinckley received the University’s Distinguished Alumna for the College of Education in 2016.
Dr. Guice’s association with Louisiana Tech University spans several decades, beginning with his time as a student. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in architecture in 1976 and later pursued a master’s degree in civil engineering, followed by a Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. Dr. Guice held various academic and administrative roles within the College of Engineering and Science before assuming the presidency in 2013.
Retiring at the end of 2023, Dr. Guice leaves behind a remarkable legacy at Louisiana Tech University, with plans underway by the university and the Ruston community to continue celebrating his contributions.
Dr. Henderson, who recently transitioned from his role as president and CEO of the University of Louisiana System, will preside over his first Louisiana Tech commencement as president on March 2, adding another layer of significance to the event.