Media Center (Blog)

For the Ventress family, LSU is more than just a university—it’s a legacy of learning, passion, and community. Mark Ventress, DDS, an LSU alumnus, has built a thriving career in dentistry. Today, his daughter, Ava Ventress, follows in his footsteps as a junior in the College of Science, majoring in Biological Sciences with aspirations of becoming a dentist herself. Their journey reflects not only a shared career path but also a deep connection to the LSU experience. As Ava continues her academic journey, she remains eager to explore the different specialties within dentistry. Inspired by her father’s dedication to patient care and community service, she hopes to not only build a successful career but also use her skills to make a positive impact—perhaps through mission work or by pioneering new advancements in dental health. "I want to help people in a meaningful way, just like my dad has," she says.

Geaux 4 Kids, a Louisiana non-profit based in Bossier City, works with state government and law enforcement in every parish to give “hope, home, and dignity in a bag” to the thousands of children who are taken into state custody each year due to criminal abuse and neglect.

Greaux Healthy is a comprehensive, new program supported by the state of Louisiana that translates 35 years of Pennington Biomedical research into practical tools to prevent and treat childhood obesity.