Next fall, Claire Pettit will be busy with lesson plans and numbers as she takes on the challenge of teaching gifted math at Lafayette High School while working toward her own educational goals of earning a master’s degree.
Pettit, Outstanding Graduate for the College of Sciences, is the Spring 2007 Outstanding Graduate. She will graduate having completed the requirements for a degree of Bachelor of Science with a major in Mathematics. Pettit is the daughter of Mike and Scarlet Pettit of Lafayette.
During her academic career, she has demonstrated her leadership in a number of organizations including the Blue Key Honor Fraternity, Student Government Association, the Association of Future Alumni and the University Program Council.
“ While serving the university, I feel that my experiences have helped me to grow into a better leader and have prepared me for life after graduation,” she said. “My leadership positions in campus organizations have awarded me the opportunity to meet leaders throughout the state and across the country.”
She is supported by a National Science Foundation Mathematical Biology Program Fellowship, and is involved in writing a paper for publication on population estimates of Hyla cinerea, or green tree frogs, in an urban environment. She also holds professional memberships in the Mathematical Association of America and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
When not focusing on academics, Pettit enjoys supporting the Ragin’ Cajuns as well as remaining active in campus organizations.
“ Homecoming week was always a fun and memorable week, and I will always be grateful to have served as Homecoming Chair one year and a member of the Homecoming Court another year,” she said. “I will always cherish the memories of serving on the Executive Board for the Association of Student Advancement Programs, which allowed me to represent our university on a national level.”
Much of her success can be attributed to her parents, Mike and Scarlet Pettit, whom she says have been very supportive.
“ They encouraged me to get involved, meet new people, and enjoy college life,” Pettit said. “I am also very appreciative for the guidance I have received from Mr. Anthony Daniel, director of the Student Union, and Dean of Students Edward Pratt during my years at UL Lafayette.”
Pettit is the recipient of a number of scholarships including the UL Lafayette Alumni Endowed Scholarship, the Marion Butler Hall Endowed Scholarship in Mathematics and the Poché Prouet Scholarship.
“ After graduation, I will miss the opportunity to be a student and I will miss the people I have had the privilege to work with while at UL Lafayette, and getting in free to UL Lafayette sporting events,” she said. “Although my undergraduate career may be over, I will always be a Ragin' Cajun.”
Other Outstanding Graduates included: Nathan Rabalais, Arts: Nicole Warner, Business Administration; Ashlyn Fangue, Education; Aimee Rachal, Engineering; Michael Williams Jr., General Studies; Marielle Phillips, Liberal Arts; and Ashley Sanders, Nursing.