Central American businessman José Barrios Ng is scheduled to speak at commencement for the fall 2014 graduating class, where he will also be presented with an honorary doctorate degree from the university.

Barrios is one of the most renowned business leaders of present times, notably having made recent efforts to modernize the Panama Canal.

A graduate of Louisiana State University’s class of 1970 with a bachelor of science degree specializing in electrical engineering, Barrios went on to procure a master’s degrees from the Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of California shortly afterward. Today, he is the president and CEO of ABCO Global and Capital Finance.

Barrios is also a major philanthropist, supporting the causes of single mothers, indigenous peoples and the future improvement of the education systems in both Central America and the United States.

“Mr. Barrios has been a long-standing friend to the university,” said President John Crain. “He is an active member of the Rotary Club, as well as several philanthropic boards.  He is known for his support of social development efforts in Central America, is a leader in supporting the advancement of indigenous peoples, including single mothers and supports efforts to improve the lives of those who live in high risk communities.”

Barrios has had an impact on the state of Louisiana as well with his attempts to modernize the Panama Canal in recent years.

“Significantly, he facilitated the Panama Canal’s support to the State of Louisiana’s efforts to develop the International Transfer Terminal that will facilitate trade into and out of Louisiana,” said Crain. “More recently, he worked with the Louisiana Committee of 100, the US Commercial Services and Southeastern and its Hispanic Business Institute to implement the Executive Commercial Mission to Panama in order to expand business relations between Louisiana and Panama.”

In addition, Barrios’ notable achievements extend to the university itself. 

“For more than seven years now, Mr. Barrios has supported efforts to improve the internationalization of the Southeastern campus and Louisiana,” said Crain. “He supports our study abroad programs, addresses our students, mentors our faculty on global and maritime issues and works with our faculty to improve the economic well-being of our region.”

The commencement ceremony will take place at the University Center on Saturday, Dec. 13. The procession will begin at 10 a.m. For more information on the commencement, contact the Office of the President via phone at 985-549-2280 or email at [email protected] or [email protected].