Leslie Lacy '91 Delivers Inspiring Convocation Talk

On Thursday, February 2, Trustee Leslie (McCant) Lacy '91 shared the story of her non-profit, Fostering Hope Louisiana, with the Govs community. Students, faculty, and staff gathered in Bergmann Theater for her Convocation talk, which was a part of the 50 Years of Women at Govs celebration. Fostering Hope Louisiana provides free orthodontic care to children in Louisiana’s foster care system.

After a decade of advocating for children in foster care as an attorney, Lacy discovered her next calling. “I had a young, 16-year-old client, Brittany Butler, who was incredibly bright and struck me as having great potential,” she recalls. “Despite being dealt a rough hand, she never succumbed to frustration or despair.” Sadly, Lacy continues, there was one thing about the young woman that made her cringe—her teeth. “It was heartbreaking because I knew Brittany was being adversely affected by a situation she couldn’t control.”

Lacy enlisted the help of Baton Rouge orthodontist Dr. James Frugé, and after transforming Brittany’s smile, the two knew they were onto something. Realizing she couldn’t continue bankrolling the effort privately, Fostering Hope Louisiana was born. “The way it’s come together has been nothing short of miraculous,” Lacy enthuses. “People in our community have rallied, donating their time, money, and services to help these children. It’s been amazing.”

Click here to listen to Lacy’s Convocation talk.