For the seventh time, Gatorworks was recognized as one of the fastest-growing LSU alumni-owned businesses. This year, it ranked 30, improving upon last year’s ranking of 46. Created and hosted by E. J. Ourso College of Business—Executive Education, LSU100 showcases the entrepreneurial success of LSU graduates. The effort strives to offer encouragement, networking, and assistance to entrepreneurially-minded students, faculty, and businesses.
At the November 22 gala at L’Auberge, Gatorworks team members joined 99 other organizations representing all fields and professions. According to event organizers, “By engaging the honorees with the LSU community, students and alumni network with and learn from one another to create a legacy of entrepreneurship at LSU.”
Gatorworks president Brian Rodriguez is a 2006 graduate of Louisiana State University. In fact, he started the company when he was still a student on LSU’s campus. He began a website design business while he was earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in information systems and decision sciences.
“My time at LSU was a huge part of my professional and personal development—I started this company in my dorm room! I’m proud of my alma mater and the continued connections Gatorworks has with the university,” says Rodriguez. “To be included once again on this list among so many other distinguished, tiger-owned businesses is a huge honor. We plan on continuing to grow to make LSU proud!”
Over the past 13 years, Gatorworks has evolved into a thriving, full-service digital marketing company in Baton Rouge with 23 full-time professionals. Including Brian, 18 of them are LSU graduates—that’s nearly 80% of the company! Many return to their alma mater regularly to speak to classes and student organizations. They share insights about their careers and offer expertise on various topics. The company’s leadership also works closely with many academic colleges at LSU—including the Manship School of Mass Communication—to facilitate internships for current students.
Many of Gatorworks’ past and current clients were also among the 2019 honorees. These included Mimosa Handcrafted, Netchex, WFCW Lawyers, Mastery Prep, and Puryear IT. To meet the criteria, companies must have been in business for at least five years, have annual revenue of $100,000 or more, and be led or owned by an LSU alumnus. Additionally, the company, its leaders, and its founders must act with integrity and maintain the values and image of LSU. The 2019 LSU 100 accounting firm partner is Postlethwaite & Netterville. The Tiger Athletic Foundation, the LSU Foundation, and LSU’s Stephenson Entrepreneurship Institute are university partners of the program.