2024 Walter O. Mason Jr. Recipient Randoph Holly

Originally broadcast on Monday, September 9, 2024

Randolph B. Holly, Jr. has dedicated his life to ensuring that students from Central Louisiana have access to the opportunities and resources needed to pursue higher education. As the executive director of COPE Inc., Holly has spearheaded TRIO academic programs that have reached over 10,000 individuals, placing more than 800 seniors in postsecondary institutions. His commitment to guiding young minds toward success has impacted the lives of the students he serves and the broader community. Holly, an Alexandria, Louisiana native, graduated from Bolton High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education and special education, as well as a Master of Education in guidance and counseling, from Southern University A&M College in Baton Rouge. His career in education began at Southern University, where he worked with the TRIO Talent Search program, igniting his passion for helping disadvantaged students navigate the path to higher education. Recognizing that students often drop out of school as early as the seventh grade, Holly has made it his mission to “catch students as early as possible,” particularly those who believe they can’t afford or succeed in college. Through COPE Inc., he has introduced various free academic programs, even during the summer, to provide students with early exposure to postsecondary education. “The idea,” Holly explains, “is to get them early exposure to make them aware of how postsecondary education works and the importance of the individual’s responsibility.” Holly’s leadership extends beyond his direct work with students. He has served as president of both the Louisiana Association of Student Assistance Programs (LASAP) and the Southwest Association of Student Assistance Programs (SWASAP). His nine-year tenure on the Council for Opportunity in Education’s board of directors reflects his deep commitment to the TRIO community. In recognition of his contributions, Holly has been honored with numerous awards, including the SWASAP “Legacy Award,” the Central Louisiana Business League’s “Jimmie Rax, Jr. Businessperson of the Year,” and the title of one of the Ten Outstanding Men of Substance in Central Louisiana. Holly’s innovative approach to TRIO programs includes introducing STEM initiatives, such as coding, robotics, and drones, to engage students in new and exciting ways. His vision led to the establishment of the first TRIO Parent University in Rapides Parish, which helps parents navigate the everchanging landscape of higher education as they prepare their children for success. Holly’s contributions are not limited to education. He has played an active role in economic development and community service, serving on the Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority and the Exploratory Multi-Purpose Arena Committee boards. A dedicated member of St. Matthew Baptist Church, Holly also lends his voice to the male chorus. Behind his professional achievements stands a strong family. Holly is married to his wife of 38 years, Marvinette Kemper, and together they have raised three children and are proud grandparents to three grandchildren.