News release Public Information Office  SLU 10880   Hammond, LA 70402   phone: 985-549-2341   fax: 985-549-2061 publicinfo@selu.edu Spring 2004 news releases Public Information home News archive Contact: Christina Chapple Date: 8/16/04   SLU CONVOCATION, PICNIC TO KICK OFF 2004-2005 ACADEMIC YEAR      HAMMOND –  Southeastern Louisiana University President Randy Moffett will begin the new academic year with the university’s fall faculty/staff convocation at 10 a.m., Friday, August 20, in the Charles E. Cate Teacher Education Center Kiva.       Moffett and Provost John Crain will recognize the recipients of the President's Awards for Excellence, the university's highest faculty and staff honor; new emeritus faculty; and 25-, 30-, 35- and 40-year service award recipients.       The annual welcome back ceremony will be dedicated to the late Judge Leon Ford III, a 1951 graduate and longtime university benefactor and friend. Special guests will include Commissioner of Higher Education E. Joseph Savoie, who will present two new endowed professorships.       Following convocation, the Southeastern Alumni Association and Hammond Chamber of Commerce will co-sponsor a picnic from noon-1 p.m. at the University Center.       The picnic is free for Southeastern employees showing their university I.D., and $5 for community members.       For more information about the picnic, contact the Alumni Association at 985-549-2150.