Video/Photos: LSU Fuels Louisiana’s Workforce and Economy with Record 5,710 Graduates
May 16, 2026
From engineers, scientists, and healthcare professionals to educators, entrepreneurs, artists, and business leaders, LSU’s newest graduates are prepared to meet critical workforce needs across the state and nation while driving innovation, research, culture, and community impact.
— Video by Grant French
LSU awarded a record 5,710 degrees during its spring commencement ceremonies on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16, marking not only the university’s largest graduating class to date, but also a major injection into Louisiana’s workforce, economy, and future competitiveness. This preliminary total surpasses last spring’s 5,428 degrees and includes record-setting numbers across every category: 4,215 bachelor’s degrees, 1,069 master’s degrees, and 127 professional degrees.
See the full graduates list, or visit the LSU commencement site.
LSU’s impact on Louisiana’s workforce extends well beyond graduation day. Nearly 75% of LSU’s in-state undergraduate students choose to remain in Louisiana after graduation, while more than 60% of all undergraduate students stay in the state to work or continue their education. Additionally, 1 in 4 out-of-state undergraduate students choose to build their futures in Louisiana after earning an LSU degree, helping strengthen the state’s talent pipeline and long-term economic competitiveness.
“LSU plays a critical role in building the educated and skilled workforce needed to ensure Louisiana is competitive in the hunt to attract and retain talent, increase innovation, and drive economic growth,” said LSU Chancellor Jim Dalton. “This record-setting class represents more than an important milestone for LSU. These graduates will serve communities, strengthen industries, drive discovery, and help move Louisiana forward for generations to come.”
Notable Names Among the Graduates
Roy O. Martin III hooded with an honorary doctorate from Chancellor James Dalton.
Roy O. Martin III and wife Kathy Martin at the College of Engineering commencement
Roy O. Martin III
Roy O. Martin III received an honorary doctoral degree in Engineering from the College of Engineering for his decades of transformative leadership, philanthropy, and service to the LSU System and the state of Louisiana.
Martin was hooded by LSU Executive Vice President and Chancellor James Dalton, LSU College of Engineering Dean Vicki Colvin, LSU Board of Supervisors Chairman Lee Mallett, and LSU Department of Mechanical Engineering Chair Dimitris Nikitopoulos.
“Roy Martin’s impact on LSU cannot be overstated,” Colvin said. “His commitment to education, workforce development, and innovation has strengthened communities across Louisiana and helped generations of students succeed.”
Martin was the CEO of RoyOMartin, a privately held wood-products and forest-resources company founded in 1923 by his grandfather, Roy O. Martin Sr. Headquartered in Alexandria, the company manages timberland, real estate, minerals, hunting leases, and wood manufacturing operations throughout the region.
Martin retired from the role on Jan. 1, 2026, but continues to service as chairman of the board and took on the role of chief investment officer.
Shaquille O'Neal
Shaquille O’Neal received his master of liberal arts degree.
LSU basketball and NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal received his Master of Liberal Arts degree from the College of Humanities & Social Sciences, briefly speaking to his fellow graduates and urging them to never stop learning, to use failure as motivation, to be kind and humble, and to stay curious about the world.
And, finally, “Celebrate how far you've come but keep striving for what's ahead.”
O’Neal arrived at LSU for the 1989-90 season and played three years before leaving for the NBA Draft, where he was the No. 1 pick. He went on to become a multiple NBA champion in his long and successful playing career.
Flau'jae Johnson
Flau’jae Johnson earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies.
Former LSU women’s basketball player and hip-hop artist Flau’jae Johnson earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from the College of Humanities & Social Sciences.
Drafted 8th overall in the 2026 WNBA Draft, she previously had a highly decorated four-year career at LSU, where she helped the Tigers win a national championship as a freshman.
She's currently in her rookie year with the Seattle Storm.