The breadth of ULM's reach is illustrated in the recent issue of Delta Business, a popular business publication.

The June 2010 issue features Ouachita Parish's top young professionals under 40-years-old, revealing ULM's importance concerning the education and professional development of its citizens.

Of the "20 under 40" local business leaders featured in the magazine, over half of them reference an affiliation with ULM, either through current employment, enrollment in campus courses or as graduates of the university.

ULM is a vibrant place where research, economic development, and regional partnerships come together to produce outstanding professionals for the region every year.

As state representative and ULM alum Frank Hoffmann wrote in a May 26 editorial to The News-Star, "ULM, more than any other business or entity in our area, influences all of northeastern Louisiana, economically, intellectually, culturally and just about every other measure of quality of life."

The following professionals affiliated with ULM, as well as their job titles and companies, were highlighted in the June issue of Delta Business magazine. ULM alums are denoted with year of graduation:

• Brad Arender, owner/chief photographer, studio+gallery

• Darren Burgess, 1999 BA Journalism, director, West Monroe Convention Center

• Jott Delcambre, 1999 BS Construction Management, president, Jott Delcambre Enterprises

• Jason Garsee, owner/chief executive, Solar Energy Supply

• Jeremy Harrell, market president, Marion State Bank

• Cassie Livingston, 2001 BFA Graphic Design, publisher, DeltaStyle magazine

• Damon Marsala, 1998 Bachelor's of General Studies, president, Marsala Beverage

• Anna K. Robertson, 2005 Bachelor's of Business Administration, area director, Advantage Staffing

• French Smith, 1995 BA Psychology, executive sales professional, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals

• Laura Woodard, director of media relations, ULM