The LSU Health Foundation is proud to announce the election of its new slate of officers and appointment of four new members to its Board of Directors, effective July 1. These distinguished leaders bring deep expertise, a shared commitment to elevating healthcare, and a strong vision for supporting education, research, and patient care across Louisiana.
Newly Elected Board Officers:
- Paige Sensenbrenner, Esq., Chair
- Najeeb Thomas, MD, Vice Chair
- Deke Carbo, Treasurer
- Anna Pou, MD, Secretary
Newly Appointed Board Members:
- Nelson P. Daly, DDS ‘93, FAGD, AFAAID, FACD, FICOI, FADI, FPFA – Dr. Daly is a highly accomplished dentist with extensive clinical experience and national recognition in restorative and implant dentistry. A Fellow of multiple prestigious dental organizations, currently serving on the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry, he has demonstrated leadership in advancing dental education and patient care standards. He received his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from LSUSD in 1993 and completed a General Practice Residency at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in New Orleans in 1994. His longstanding commitment to clinical excellence and professional service makes him a valuable addition to the board.
- Christopher “Chris” M. Dyba – A native of Louisiana, Mr. Dyba is an esteemed fundraising professional with extensive experience in higher education. Currently the Vice Chancellor of University Advancement at East Carolina University and President of the ECU Foundation, his background in foundation management and nonprofit governance will be a stellar addition to the board. Known for his strategic thinking and organizational leadership, he has played a key role in supporting economic and philanthropic initiatives at myriad other institutions, including Duke, Auburn, and Tulane. His business acumen and dedication to community service will help strengthen the Foundation’s mission-driven work.
- Phillip “Luke” LeBas, MD, FACEP – Dr. LeBas is a board-certified emergency physician and Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians. With years of experience in frontline emergency care, he has been actively involved in clinical leadership and medical education, having a long-standing affiliation with LSU Health. LeBas is a member of the National Emergency Medicine Political Action Committee (NEMPAC), one of the largest physician-led medical political action committees in the United States, focused on national congressional engagement and federal health policy. He is currently the Attending Emergency Physician and Clinical Educator at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center. His institution-first perspective informed by academic medicine and commitment to training future medical professionals will be invaluable to the Foundation.
- Michael Pou – Mr. Pou is a renowned Real Estate Broker with expertise in market analysis, property valuation and financial modeling. He currently serves as the Licensed Associate Broker of the Talbot Realty Group with previous experience from Iberia Bank, Whitney National Bank and Latter & Blum. He has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting and leading local nonprofit organizations. His passion for improving community health outcomes will help guide the Foundation’s continued growth and impact.”
In addition, the Foundation is pleased to recognize Al Bienvenu as Immediate Past Chair. The Board extends its sincere gratitude to Mr. Bienvenu for his exceptional leadership and dedicated service during his tenure as Chair. Throughout his term, Al was a tireless advocate for LSU Health New Orleans, championing initiatives that strengthen its impact across the state and beyond. Notably, his steadfast advocacy helped advance LSU Health New Orleans’ pursuit of National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation—rallying support, raising awareness, and reinforcing the importance of this critical milestone for cancer research and patient care in Louisiana. His leadership and commitment have been instrumental in building momentum toward this goal and elevating the institution’s national profile.
“We are honored to welcome this distinguished group of leaders into their new roles,” said Katie Acuff, Esq., Foundation President and CEO. “Their collective expertise and dedication, coupled with the strong leadership and momentum established during Al Bienvenu’s tenure, position the LSU Health Foundation for continued advancement in patient care, healthcare education, and research innovation. I also look forward to working in close partnership with our new board chair as we build upon this progress and further strengthen the Foundation’s mission.”
The LSU Health Foundation supports the LSU Health Sciences Center by raising and managing private funds to advance education, patient care, research, and community outreach. The addition of new board members and officers reflects the Foundation’s continued commitment to strong leadership, meaningful partnerships, and transformative healthcare initiatives.
Please join us in congratulating these leaders on their appointments and thanking Al Bienvenu for his lasting contributions.