Campaign contributions were not the reason for Gov. Bobby Jindal’s decision to appoint R. Blake Chatelain and James Moore to the LSU Board of Supervisors, according to both Chatelain and Moore.
Chatelain and Moore each contributed at least $5,000 to Jindal’s gubernatorial campaign.
Chatelain said he was selected for his experience and qualifications.
“There are a lot of people who contributed at that level who would also like to serve on the Board,” Chatelain said. “I’m not sure of the governor’s policy, but look at my background. My interest is serving LSU, and my experience will help me do that.”
Moore also said Jindal’s decision was not based on money.
“I wouldn’t think so,” Moore said. “The governor is looking for people with a desire to serve, and he felt that I could make a contribution.”
Aside from campaign contributions, Moore and Chatelain have professional and personal connections to Jindal.
Chatelain served on Jindal’s Health Care Transition Advisory Council, and Moore served on Jindal’s Ethics Transition Advisory Council.
Moore also said Jindal has been a friend of his “for a number of years.”
Moore said he was selected because of his stance on education and health care.
“I have a strong belief in wanting to advance education and health care in Louisiana,” Moore said. “So what better place to do that than LSU?”
Chatelain believes his “experience in business and the service to the community” along with his connections to the University qualified him for the position.
“My wife and I met at LSU,” Chatelain said. “I graduated from there, one of my sons graduated from there. I have one son currently enrolled and another one on the way.”
Moore said he currently serves on the LSU Health Science Foundation in Shreveport and served on the board of the Lod Cook Alumni Center’s hotel.
Chatelain and Moore both said they are honored to serve on the Board.
Chatelain acknowledged Charles Weems, the Board member he is replacing, will be a hard act to follow.
“Weems left some big shoes for me to fill,” Chatelain said. “He’s definitely an asset to the University and the community.”
Weems served on the Board for 17 years, making him the senior member prior to his replacement.
Moore said Hal Hinchliffe, the Board member he is replacing, called to congratulate him on his appointment.
“Hal [Hinchliffe] is a personal friend of mine,” Moore said. “I look forward to gaining from his experience and insight.”
—-Contact Katie Kennedy at [email protected]