Two University of Louisiana at Lafayette alumni played key roles in Artemis II, a mission that has carried astronaut
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette takes IBA AAPG North America Semi-Final 1st place
Mon, 04/20/2026 - 5:43pm
Proud to share that the IBA team at University of Louisiana at Lafayette earned 1st place at the North American Semifinals after ten challenging weeks filled with sleepless nights, collaboration, and nonstop problem‑solving. This experience pushed the team, which includes Myllah Brown, Caitlyn Mullis, Anna-Sophia Henry, Ashley Mindt, and Amadeo Suazo, to grow tremendously as geologists, critical thinkers, and teammates. Their industry advisors Mary Broussard & Brian Brennan, young professional mentor Peyton Dardeau, and faculty advisors Dr. Rui Zhang & William Finley provided guidance, insight, and support throughout the process. The team's performance follows a legacy of success in the competition, with student teams from UL winning the regional competition 10 times (2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and now 2026) and the international competition three times (2012, 2014, and 2018). This year's team will be representing not only the state and university, but all of North America at the International IBA Competition in Houston, Texas on June 22nd!
View AAPG IBA's announcement on Linkedin.
Photo description: Team members of UL Lafayette's IBA team posing with their IBA 1st place award of $1,000. Members from left to right: Ashley Mindt, Anna-Sophia Henry, Amadeo Suazo, Caitlyn Mullis, and Myllah Brown.