Now even the White House is taking notice of the developing technology scene on the Silicon Bayou.
Louis Reis, who graduated from Louisiana Tech last Saturday, is featured on the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy blog as one of just 14 students in the country that graduated as a 2011 Grand Challenges Scholar. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy is honoring the Grand Challenge Scholars and their efforts to find solutions to some of the most important problems facing America in the 21st century.
The article recognizes Reis, a duel-major in biomedical and chemical engineering, for his Grand Challenge focus of “engineering better medicine.” Specifically, Mr. Reiz is recognized for developing scaffolding for growing corneal cells, designing a blood glucose monitoring system, and creating a mobile DNA analysis system. Reis earned a second place finish in in Louisiana Tech’s Tog Dawg Business Plan Competition for his idea for a first-line continuous glucose monitoring system, and is now in the process of obtaining a patent and applying for a grant from the Small Business Innovation Research program.
“The Grand Challenge Scholars Program provides students with the opportunity to expand their educational experience to include a focus on global issues, service and entrepreneurship,” said Dr. Jenna Carpenter, associate dean for administration and strategic initiatives in Louisiana Tech’s College of Engineering and Science.
Reis, along with Stephanie Parker, an electrical engineering major, represent the Louisiana Tech contingent of 2011 Grand Challenge Scholar graduates.
You can find the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy blog post here.