The Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts celebrated the careers of four educators and staff members Thursday, May 7, at a Retirement Reception recognizing decades of collective service to the school and its students.

 

The honorees were Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton, Lecturer of English Dr. Jocelyn Donlon, Senior Lecturer of Mathematics and Computer Science Sanjeetha Peters, and former staff member Sheila Kidd.

 

Dr. Steve Horton has served as LSMSA’s seventh executive director since 2016, returning to the institution where his career began in the mid-1980s. His tenure capped more than 40 years of service across K-12 and higher education, a career the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce recently recognized with its Lifetime Achievement Award. The LSMSA Alumni Association also honored him for his years of service to the school.

 

Board Chair Dr. Vickie S. Gentry praised his ability to inspire students, calling him a remarkable leader. Associate Lecturer of English Dr. Kristi Pope Key highlighted his deep investment in the LSMSA community and his talent for setting a tone of joy throughout the school.

 

In his remarks, Dr. Horton credited former LSMSA employee Dr. Sharon Williams, who first hired him as a resident advisor in the mid-1980s, with shaping the trajectory of his entire career. “I am deeply grateful for this full-circle moment,” he said. He also expressed confidence in Executive Director-elect Dr. Jason Anderson as his successor.

 

Dr. Jocelyn Donlon served as a lecturer of English for 13 years, earning recognition for fostering a sense of family and community within the school. Dr. Anderson called her “a legend,” praising her appreciation for those who came before her and her unwavering commitment to excellence.

 

Dr. Donlon was named Humanities Faculty Emeritus and recognized by the Alumni Association. She thanked the LSMSA community, the LSMSA Foundation, and her husband, John Donlon, for his support throughout her career. “LSMSA has been a home to me in every sense of the word,” she said.

 

Sanjeetha Peters served as a lecturer of mathematics and computer science for 28 years. Dr. Anderson described her as a “true unicorn” for her rare ability to teach rigorous coursework in both disciplines simultaneously. Peters was named Math and Computer Science Faculty Emeritus and recognized by the Alumni Association.

 

Peters thanked the LSMSA community, the LSMSA Foundation, her students throughout the years, and especially former department chair Mike McGrath for believing in her when she arrived as a graduate student. “I will always treasure the wealth of friends and family I have gained through this work,” she said.

 

Sheila Kidd, who retired in September 2025 and was unable to attend the reception, was also honored for her 11 years of service to LSMSA. She has since made her home in Colorado.

 

LSMSA is a tuition-free, public residential high school serving high-achieving sophomores, juniors, and seniors from across Louisiana. Financial assistance is available to ensure access to its 43-year tradition of a rigorous, college-level living and learning experience. 

 

Learn more at LSMSA.edu.