Meet the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees
MR. EDMUND "ED" ANDERSON
The late Edmund “Ed” Anderson, a New Orleans native, emerged as a notable figure in journalism with a career spanning decades. Graduating from Loyola University, where he served as the editor of The Maroon, he joined The Times-Picayune as a general assignment reporter in 1969. His extensive reporting covered a wide spectrum, including state and local elections, politics, courts, legislature, city hall, urban affairs, and real estate.
Transitioning to the permanent Baton Rouge bureau in 1988, Anderson focused on state government, politics, and the Legislature for 24 years, navigating the administrations of six governors.
His tough yet fair reporting style earned him numerous writing awards and accolades, including a role in the Pulitzer Prize-winning news team for coverage of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2006.
In 2013, Anderson brought his expertise to the Legislative Auditor's Office, contributing to the editing of complex audit reports for enhanced public understanding.
Beyond his journalistic achievements, he was a graduate of the Leadership Louisiana program in 2007 and a 1979 fellow at the Institute of Politics at Loyola University. Serving as an adjunct faculty member at Loyola from 1980 to 1987, Anderson taught reporting and urban affairs.
A devoted fan of the New Orleans Saints and LSU sports, he enjoyed exploring Louisiana's small towns and countryside during day trips.
In recognition of his rich career and contributions, Anderson received the Press Club of New Orleans' Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004. Edmund "Ed" Anderson's legacy is characterized by his dedication to journalism, public service, and community engagement.
mr. DAN BORNé
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Deacon Dan Borné boasts a diverse career spanning over 50 years across media, government, education, industry, healthcare, and more. Retired as President of the Louisiana Chemical Association, he held pivotal roles in various organizations, including the Louisiana Chemical Industry Alliance and the Louisiana Foundation for Excellence in Science, Technology, and Education. He's chaired boards at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana and remains actively involved in several foundations and institutes. His journey includes governmental positions, notably serving as an aide to Governor Edwin W. Edwards and various senators.
His extensive media experience includes anchoring news and sports. An LSU graduate, he's been recognized by his alma mater and the Manship School for his contributions.
Alongside his professional accomplishments, Borné's commitment to community service shines through his involvement in healthcare, arts, education, and charitable organizations. Notably, he's chaired the General Health System board and led initiatives for economic education and community welfare.
His passion for LSU athletics extends to his role as the longstanding public address announcer at Tiger Stadium and the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. His impactful public appearances also include serving as the master of ceremonies for significant state events and delivering eulogies for esteemed figures.
In retirement, Borné continues to be an influential figure, sharing his wisdom through teaching, preaching, retreats, and engagements across multiple states. He and Lisette reside in Baton Rouge, actively participating in their community while being dedicated members of St. Jean Vianney Catholic Church.
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THE HON. JOSEPH A. DELPIT
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Joseph A. Delpit, born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has made significant strides across various sectors. Since 1959, he's been at the helm of the Chicken Shack, evolving it into a chain under Chicken Shack Systems, Inc. Additionally, he's been involved in healthcare, consulting, investments, and mental health services.
Delpit's extensive memberships encompass roles in civic, religious, and educational organizations. He has notably been a part of boards for St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Southern University System Foundation, and various community development entities.
His achievements are marked by numerous honors, including recognition for business leadership, civic contributions, civil rights advocacy, and service to educational institutions. Notably, he represented minority business interests at the White House under President Bill Clinton.
Delpit made history as the first Black councilman in Baton Rouge and served in significant capacities, including Mayor Pro Tempore. He held various political positions, serving as State Representative and achieving the title of Speaker Pro Tempore, marking a milestone in Louisiana's political landscape.
Though he retired from the State Legislature in 1992, Delpit remains engaged in local activities while focusing on mentoring his family for future business endeavors. His legacy continues through his dedication to both business and community development.
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the hon. JOHN BEL EDWARDS
John Bel Edwards, Louisiana's 56th Governor, embodies a life dedicated to service. John was the seventh of eight children born in Tangipahoa Parish to Sheriff Frank Jr. and Dora Jean Edwards. His journey began at West Point, graduating in 1988 before serving as an Airborne Ranger in the U.S. Army for eight years, eventually commanding a rifle company in the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg.
Returning home, Edwards pursued law, establishing a practice in Amite. He had cultivated a passion for community early on in his life and his public service continued with eight years in the Louisiana House of Representatives, representing various regions. His leadership skills were evident as the only freshman lawmaker to chair a committee, specifically the Veterans Affairs Committee. He later became the House Minority Leader and in 2016, he assumed the governorship, securing re-election in 2019.
Edwards' tenure marked significant milestones, notably expanding Medicaid coverage, lowering the state's uninsured rate, and navigating fiscal challenges. He championed comprehensive criminal justice reform,
focusing on rehabilitation and victim services while spearheading initiatives addressing climate change and clean energy all while addressing challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and hurricanes.
Under his leadership, Louisiana prioritized education, infrastructure, and economic diversification, culminating in record-low unemployment rates and a vision to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. After concluding his term on January 8, 2024, Edwards has left a lasting impact on Louisiana politics and governance.
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MR. JAMES R. ENGSTER
James R. "Jim" Engster, a distinguished Louisiana journalist and radio host, is the owner and president of the Louisiana Radio Network (LRN) and renowned for his captivating show "Talk Louisiana" on WRKF, Baton Rouge's NPR affiliate. His political analysis extends to WAFB, and he hosted "Ask the Governor," a monthly call-in program with then-Governor John Bel Edwards.
A Louisiana State University graduate of 1981, Engster was inducted into the LSU Manship School Hall of Fame in 2012 and the LSU Hall of Distinction in 2018.
Engster's radio career, spanning decades, began with Louisiana Network, where he served as a reporter and news director from 1983 to 1998. He hosted the acclaimed call-in show "Louisiana Live" and managed WRKF before acquiring and rebranding Louisiana Network as LRN. His show, "The Jim Engster Show," aired on WRKF-FM and WBRP.
In sports journalism, he served as president of Tiger Rag magazine, acquired by LRN in 2000, earning the title of Louisiana Sports Writers Association's Columnist of the Year in 2018 for his column "Statistically Speaking." His contributions earned him accolades, including Communicator of the Year by the Public Relations Association of Louisiana in 2008 and the Racial Justice Award from the YWCA Greater Baton Rouge in 2011.
Engster remains committed to media as the Media Board Chairman of the Press Club of Baton Rouge and president of the LSU Media Board, overseeing student media operations.
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the hon. LOUIS LAMBERT
Louis Joseph Lambert, a seasoned Louisiana politician and attorney, embarked on a multifaceted political journey in the early 1970s. Initially the Gonzales town attorney, Lambert secured a state Senate seat during the 1971-1972 election cycle, representing District 18 until 2004, covering East Baton Rouge, Ascension, Livingston, St. James, and St. John the Baptist parishes.
In 1979, Lambert vied for the Louisiana governorship, narrowly losing to Republican U.S. Representative David C. Treen. Despite setbacks, Lambert's resilience continued to shape Louisiana's political landscape. He served as a Public Service Commissioner, chairing the PSC for multiple terms. Lambert's pivotal role in the 1973 state constitutional convention showcased his dedication to public service. He championed environmental causes, leading the Senate Environmental Committee during his State Senate tenure.
Educationally, Lambert graduated from the Capital Page School in Washington, D.C., and earned degrees from Louisiana State University and Loyola University in Baton Rouge and New Orleans.
His community commitment was evident in organizations like the Ascension Chamber of Commerce, the East Ascension Sportsman League, and leadership roles in the River Region Cancer Clinic and The River Parishes Community College in Sorrento.
Returning to the Louisiana State Senate in 1994 until 2004, Lambert chaired the Senate Environmental Committee, emphasizing collaboration on crucial environmental issues. Beyond politics, he significantly influenced Louisiana's educational landscape as a member of the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors. Lambert's enduring impact on Louisiana's political history is marked by his unwavering resilience and dedication to public service, including a closely contested gubernatorial race and legal battles.
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MR. RICHARD LIPSEY
Richard A. Lipsey, a distinguished individual with a strong commitment to service, leadership, and philanthropy, had a remarkable career. After serving as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, he became President and CEO of Steinberg Sports Centers, Inc., in 1965. In the 1970s, Lipsey founded Lipsey's, LLC., showcasing exceptional business acumen and impacting ventures like Haspel, LLC., and Lipsey Communications.
A graduate of LSU, Lipsey played a crucial role in shaping the university's athletic programs through the Tiger Athletic Foundation and the LSU Foundation. He actively contributed to Baton Rouge community development, holding key roles in organizations like the Young Presidents' Organization, Capital Area United Way, and various health-related foundations. Lipsey's civic engagement extended to environmental organizations and business advocacy groups.
His diverse experiences include U.S. Army service, witnessing the autopsy of John F. Kennedy, and participating in the historic March on Washington in 1963.
He received numerous accolades, including inductions into the LSU Military Hall of Honor and the National Shooting Sports Foundation Hall of Fame. Throughout his career, Lipsey earned awards such as Outstanding Citizen of the Year (twice) from the Boy Scouts of America and the Baton Rouge Business Report Laureat.
His humanitarian efforts during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita garnered the 2006 Humanitarian Award from the Anti-Defamation League. Lipsey's term on the Louisiana Board of Regents concluded in 2018. He resides in Baton Rouge with his wife, Susan Haspel Lipsey.
His legacy is defined by his extensive involvement in various boards and organizations, reflecting his unwavering commitment to community service.
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The Political Family of Officeholders
the CARTER family
The Political Family of Officeholders Award recognizes the Carter family's multi-generational commitment to public service. The late Judge Burrell Carter and his son, Robert J. Carter, are celebrated for their remarkable contributions.
The late Judge Burrell Carter, a lifelong Greensburg, Louisiana resident, achieved academic excellence at Greensburg High School and LSU Law School. His legal and civic career, including serving as Mayor of Greensburg and Chief Judge of the First Circuit Court of Appeal, left a lasting impact. Even in retirement in 2012, he provided expertise to various courts.
Following his father's legacy, the Hon. Robert J. "Robby" Carter, born in 1960, made substantial contributions to Greensburg and Louisiana. A magna cum laude graduate, he served as State Representative for District 72 from 1996 to 2008, resumed the role in 2016, and was appointed Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee in 2024. His leadership, including Dean of the House of Representatives, reflects the family's commitment to public service.
Beyond legislative duties, Robert engages in legal associations and community organizations, earning accolades such as Outstanding Legislator awards. His commitment to Greensburg United Methodist Church, where he serves as Chairman of the Board, and his role as a Certified Lay Minister underscore his deep community engagement.
The Political Family of Officeholders Award celebrates the exemplary dedication of Judge Burrell Carter and Robert J. Carter, marking a proud legacy of leadership and commitment to their community and state.