The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) will honor the 40th graduating class during its annual Commencement Ceremony, held on Saturday, May 18 at 2 p.m. in Northwestern State University’s Prather Coliseum.
As the school celebrates its own 40th anniversary, it is very appropriate that Dr. Art Williams is set to be the guest speaker at the event, as he and his wife Dr. Sharon Williams were recipients of the LSMSA Foundation’s Wingspan Award for Dedication, an award created to recognize the dedication of individuals and organizations who demonstrate meaningful support for LSMSA through financial means, volunteer time, advocacy and other avenues of engagement considered above and beyond.
“Dr. Art and Sharon Williams have consistently gone above and beyond in their support of the Louisiana School,” said LSMSA Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton. “His unwavering belief in our mission and his extraordinary contributions have had a profound impact on our school community. We are immensely grateful for his continued support and the positive difference he makes in the lives of our students every day.”
A native of Charleston, South Carolina, Dr. Arthur Williams graduated with a doctorate in English with specialization in Restoration and Eighteenth-Century English Literature from Emory University.
Dr. Art began working at LSMSA in 1984 and served in many roles as well – chair of the humanities department, faculty representative to the Board of Directors, executive director (1990-1994) and a senior lecturer in humanities.
As executive director, he led LSMSA through some of its darkest budget times. He began SLAMT, the sports weekend where LSMSA competes against its sister schools, and opened the new gym. He also served as faculty sponsor to the student newspaper, “The Renaissance.”
He retired after 32 years of service to LSMSA. In 2017, he was bestowed the honor of Executive Director Emeritus at LSMSA and continues to offer classes in a limited capacity (classical guitar).
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Art as our keynote speaker for this year’s graduation ceremony,” said Dr. Horton. “He has always been a beloved member of the Eagle family. His dedication to the community serves as an inspiration to our graduating class.”
LSMSA officials are honored to have him as the guest speaker for the event.
“We look forward to his words of wisdom and encouragement as we celebrate the accomplishments of our students and their bright futures ahead,” said Dr. Horton.
