The University welcomed a distinguished guest Friday evening, as Sen. John Breaux joined University students, faculty and staff for D. Jensen Holliday’s induction into the Manship School of Mass Communication’s Hall of Fame.
“It’s great that the forum is named after such a great Baton Rouge citizen and role model for our students,” said Jack Hamilton, dean of the Manship School.
LSU System President and Interim Chancellor William Jenkins said Holliday’s induction was a moment of great pride and satisfaction for the University.
“Our University is a magnificent academic center for learning, and the best is yet to come,” Jenkins said.
Executive Vice-Chancellor and Provost Risa Palm said the Manship School has one of the best facilities for learning in the country and will aid in reaching the Flagship Agenda’s goals.
The Reilly Center for Media and Public Affairs inducted Holliday into the Hall of Fame with a special presentation of a video about Holliday’s life.
Through the video, the crowd learned of Holliday’s tremendous involvement with the Manship School, his dedication to helping the Baton Rouge community and his battle with cancer.
Sen. Breaux, a strong supporter of the Manship School and the Reilly Center, spoke to the crowd about his experience in the United States Senate, communication problems in the media and the University’s involvement with the Flagship Agenda.
“LSU is making great strides in so many different areas,” Breaux said. “I’m delighted to be asked to give the inaugural speech in such a great learning facility.”
Holliday’s family and close friends also attended the inauguration.
“Our family is humbled and honored at the forum being named after our father,” said Julie Crifasi, one of Holliday’s daughters. “He’s proud of all he’s done and I’m sure he’s watching us right now.”