Adriane Champagne, an instructor at Lamar State College Port Arthur, has been named among the top 40 young professionals under 40 years old by The Southeast Texas Young Professionals Organization, Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce and The Beaumont Enterprise.

Champagne is an instructor and program coordinator of the Business Office Management and Accounting programs at LSCPA with a career in office work and management that spans nearly 20 years.

“Young professionals are a vital asset to our region, and it is essential to recognize and acknowledge those who are making great strides in shaping our community’s future,” according to representatives from the Beaumont Chamber of Commerce. “The emphasis is on leadership, whether it’s in business, law, real estate, non-profits, education, healthcare, arts, and entertainment or other industries … and let’s not forget about our entrepreneurs.”

An independent panel of judges selects the 40 honorees each year and they will be recognized at a reception held at the Event Center in Beaumont Nov. 5.

“Adriane personifies what we look for in an instructor at Lamar State College Port Arthur,” LSCPA President Dr. Betty Reynard said. “She is smart, enthusiastic, dedicated and excited to bring knowledge to those around her. We are fortunate to have her leading our students as member of our faculty.”

Champagne is a native of Nederland. She earned her Associate of Applied Science in Business and Computer Information Systems from Lamar Institute of Technology and her bachelor’s degree from Lamar University, concentrating in computer applications and social interaction.

After working in an office setting as a receptionist, and sales assistant, she joined Lamar Institute of Technology, where she stayed for 13 years before moving to LSCPA as an instructor in 2013. During her time in higher education, she has served as a recruiter, state officer for financial aid, departmental secretary, adjunct instructor and full-time instructor.

“I am very honored to have been nominated much less chosen for this award,” Champagne said. “I am excited to meet the other honorees and represent Lamar State College Port Arthur and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life at the award ceremony.”

Champagne is also involved in public school and community activities, having served as a member of the Helena Park Elementary and C.O. Wilson Middle School PTAs.

She is the team lead for the American Cancer Society Greater Golden Triangle Relay for Life and captain of the Seahawk Strutter team, representing Lamar State College Port Arthur.

She is faculty advisor of the LSCPA Business Accounting Society and founding member of the Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce Workforce Development Board.

“I was drawn to teaching because I have always enjoyed knowing I have the potential to go to work every day and make a difference in people’s lives,” she said.

— Submitted by Gerry L. Dickert, public information coordinator for Lamar State College Port Arthur.