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The Council for Opportunity in Education Applauds the University of Louisiana-Lafayette for Inaugurating the Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association 

September 5, 2024 — by Terrance L. Hamm

The Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association at UL Lafayette is among the first University-established alumni societies specifically for TRIO students. 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) commends the University of Louisiana-Lafayette for establishing the Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association. Named in honor of the late Robert L. Carmouche, a trailblazing advocate for TRIO students and dedicated educator, this association stands as a testament to his lifelong commitment to educational equity and student success. The new chapter will be formally announced at a special ceremony on Friday, August 30, at the University. 

COE President Kimberly Jones stated, “The establishment of the Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association honors the profound legacy of R.L. Carmouche and underscores the power of TRIO programs. His dedication to education and mentorship has left an indelible mark, and this association will continue his work, providing a network of support and inspiration for TRIO students and alumni.” 

Robert Lee (R.L.) Carmouche, who passed away on March 31, at the age of 83, was a beloved figure in the educational community and one of the first black employees at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette. His career was marked by unwavering dedication to increasing educational opportunities for low-income and first-generation students, particularly African American students. R.L. Carmouche secured millions of dollars in funding for the University’s TRIO programs, positively changing the trajectories of countless lives. 

Carmouche’s legacy includes earning his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics Education from Southern University in Baton Rouge in 1965 and his Master’s Degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (formerly USL) in 1970. His roles at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette included counselor, Assistant Director of Student Support Services and Upward Bound, and Director of Special Services. He was also a dedicated public servant in his hometown of Sunset, serving as the first African American elected official and as Alderman for over 25 years. 

Dr. E. Joseph Savoie, President of the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, added, “We are deeply honored to inaugurate the Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association. R.L. Carmouche’s commitment to our students and community exemplifies the spirit of service and excellence. This association will ensure his legacy endures, fostering success and opportunity for future generations.” 

TRIO programs have made a significant impact nationally by supporting more than six million first-generation, low-income students and helping them achieve their academic and career goals. The Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association at University of Louisiana-Lafayette is among the first university-established alumni societies specifically for TRIO participants. 

The Carmouche TRIO Alumni Association will provide a platform for alumni to connect, share experiences, and support current TRIO students in their educational journeys. The inauguration ceremony will celebrate R.L. Carmouche’s life and contributions, bringing together alumni, students, faculty, and community members. 

For more information, please contact the University of Louisiana-Lafayette’s TRIO Programs Office at (337) 482-6828 or visit www.louisiana.edu/trio. 

Media Inquiries

For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact Terrance L. Hamm, associate vice-president for communications and marketing at COE via email at [email protected] or call (202) 347-7430.

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