Trips, Jewelry, Parking Spot Up for Bid

Published

Need a parking spot on campus at UL Lafayette? How about two tickets to the U.S. Open Golf Tournament? Or perhaps, you would like a self portrait?

All of these items plus many, many more are going up for bid during silent and live auctions at the UL Lafayette Alumni Association’s 11th annual Spring Gala. The event, which will honor alum Jim Doyle, is set for March 31 on the grounds of the Alumni Center from 6:30 to 10 p.m.

Spring Gala Auction ItemOther items on the auction block include a 14k white gold diamond and Citrine dinner ring from Paul’s Jewelry, a John Hardy 16” sterling silver wheat chain with five stations of 22k yellow gold, a custom-designed Vivian Alexander red egg purse and free tuition for one year at UL Lafayette.

“ The Spring Gala auction committee always does an exceptional job of getting an array of items for the silent and live auctions,” said Alumni Association Executive Director Dan Hare. “This year’s auctions are no different. From restaurant gift certificates and tailgating packages to private use of the Alumni Center and exquisite jewelry, the auction items will appeal to everyone.”

The gala offers fine food and entertainment in addition to the silent and live auctions.

In addition, those attending will be able to purchase a $10 chance to win the Ragin’ Cajun Harley, a 2007 customized Softail Deluxe motorcycle. The motorcycle is a collaborative effort between Cajun Harley-Davidson in Scott and the Alumni Association. The winner’s name will be drawn May 12 at a special event held at Cajun Harley-Davidson with proceeds going to the Alumni Center for maintenance and improvements.

Martin Audiffred, president-elect of the UL Lafayette Alumni Association, serves as chair of the Spring Gala while Melanie Martin, Alumni Council member, serves as Spring Gala Auction chair.

Tickets are $150 per couple or $75 per individual. Patron tables may be purchased for $2,000 and sponsor tables are available for $5,000. Proceeds from the gala are dedicated to improvements and maintenance of the Alumni Center.

Honoree Jim Doyle, a 1971 graduate of UL Lafayette, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. In addition to academics, Doyle was a member of the Ragin' Cajun football team from 1967 through 1970.

In 1973, he joined the staff of Coastal Chemical Company in Abbeville as a sales manager and 18 years later was named Chairman and CEO. Coastal Chemical ownership was sold in 1997, but Doyle has continued working in senior management positions for the successor companies.

He currently serves as Executive Vice President of Brenntag North America Inc., a part of the largest chemical distribution company in the world.

Doyle is past president of the UL Lafayette Alumni Association, president of the UL Lafayette Executive Advisory Board for the College of Business Administration, member of the UL Lafayette Foundation Board, and member of the board of the Ragin' Cajuns Lettermen Club.

Professionally, he is presently serving on the Board of Directors of the Gas Processors Suppliers Association. Doyle is also a member of the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Club and the Vermilion Milk Fund.

“ Jim Doyle is an exceptional gentleman who enjoys a successful career while simultaneously serving his community at large and the university in particular. He has shared his time, talent and treasure in a most generous manner and it is only fitting that he be recognized by his alma mater for his many good works that so many have benefited from,” said Hare.

He and his wife Charlotte are the parents of three children, Angela, Craig and Jennifer. The couple are grandparents to Brendan Doyle.

For more information or to donate auction items, call (337) 482-0900 or visit www.LOUISIANAalumni.org/gala_2007.