LSU to Host Inaugural Silicon Bayou Gala, Launch Louisiana Technology Awards

BATON ROUGE, LA –The LSU Division of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) is proud to announce the inaugural Silicon Bayou Gala set to take place on September 19, 2025, at the historic Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center. This formal evening event will bring together leaders in technology, business, and higher education to celebrate innovation, recognize outstanding achievement, and raise funds to support the future of tech in Louisiana.

The Gala, which begins at 7 p.m., will include a full-seated dinner, an open bar, and live entertainment by The After Party Experience. Guests will enjoy a dynamic evening featuring a formal awards ceremony, student-led technology exhibits, immersive digital installations, and a robot bartender created by LSU students. The event will spotlight Louisiana’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem and the individuals and organizations leading the charge.

A major feature of the evening will be the launch of the Louisiana Technology Awards, a statewide recognition program honoring companies and organizations advancing technological innovation across a variety of sectors. The awards are designed to recognize businesses using technology to drive progress, improve lives, and strengthen Louisiana’s economy. Companies of all sizes are encouraged to nominate themselves or peers that embody innovation, leadership, and impact.

Nominees will be evaluated based on technological originality, industry or community impact, scalability, and contributions to Louisiana’s innovation ecosystem. Award recipients will be announced during the Gala. Nominations are open now through June 19, 2025.

The event, of which Entergy is a Diamond Sponsor, is chaired by Alaina Metz-Smith, who also serves on the LSU CSE Industry Advisory Board, with Caitlynn Coco as Vice Chair. The initiative is led by LSU CSE Division Chair Dr. Ibrahim “Abe” Baggili and supported by an advisory board of prominent leaders in technology and business, including Alexander “Lex” Adams, Chris Meaux, Craig Stevens, Mohit “Mo” Vij, Tony Zanders, and Alaina Metz-Smith.

“The Louisiana Technology Awards are more than a celebration,” Dr. Baggili said. “They are a platform to recognize the groundbreaking work happening across our state and a catalyst for building the type of tech ecosystem that encourages students to thrive and build careers here in Louisiana.”

Proceeds from the Silicon Bayou Gala will directly support student scholarships, undergraduate research, and the continued development of LSU’s programs in computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

The Gala is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors including Nexus Louisiana, Vigilus, 365Labs, and Qimana. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for organizations interested in investing in Louisiana’s technology future.

To learn more about the Gala, submit a nomination, or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit: https://www.lsu.edu/eng/cse/newsandevents/2025gala.php