Front Porch Forum: Conversations on Science, Innovation, and Impact
A welcoming monthly forum where scientists, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, policymakers, healthcare innovators, and community partners explore how ideas move from discovery to real-world impact.
What to expect
Each event combines personal experience, practical insight, audience questions, and informal networking
- Monthly Cycle
- Moderated, conversational format
- Designed for both specialists and the public
- Open to faculty, trainees, partners, and community members
WHY IT MATTERS
Scientific Discovery has greater value when people understand how to move it forward.
Innovation does not end in the laboratory. It depends on strong partnerships, clear communication, thoughtful regulation, community trust, commercial strategy, and a workforce prepared to translate knowledge into products, policies, services, and public benefit.
Build practical skills
Explore patents, partnerships, investment, regulation, entrepreneurship, and implementation
EVENT FORMAT
More conversation than lecture
Each session is designed to be accessible, candid, and useful-especially for trainees, junior faculty, entrepreneurs, and community partners
10 minutes: Speaker Story
A brief introduction to the speaker's journey, organization, and perspective on innovation
30 minutes: Moderated conversation
A focused discussion on lessons learned, barriers, opportunities, and how ideas become useful.
20 minutes: Audience questions
Participants ask questions and connect the discussion to their own work and interests.
45 minutes: Reception and networking
An informal setting for continued conversation, introductions, and future collaboration.
Upcoming Speakers
Location and Time
More Information
LSU Chancellor Jim Dalton, PhD
Wednesday, August 19th
4:00 PM
Human Development Center Auditorium 130
Parking Available in the Johnson Street Lot (gravel lot located next to the venue) on S. Johnson St. and the Seton Patient Lot (paved lot between the Human Development Center and the Campus Multispecialty Clinic off S. Johnson St.)
If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact Leigh Smith-Vaniz at (504)568-2211 or ods@lsuhsc.edu. Please be aware that advance notice is requested as some accommodations may require lead time to arrange.
All are welcome! Be a part of the conversation.
CONVERSATION THEMES
A wide view of innovation
Speakers may come from many sectors, but each conversation addresses a common question: how can scientific expertise create value for people, communities, and society?
Who should attend?
The series is designed for people who are curious about how research, technology, business, policy, healthcare, and communities come together.
Students and trainees
Faculty and research staff
Entrepreneurs and investors
Industry and technology leaders
Healthcare professionals
Government and policy leaders
Community organizations
Members of the general public