Pepper Rutland, Neighbor

Pepper Rutland is an active philanthropist and the majority of his time and effort goes into donating to his alma mater, LSU. LSU still holds a special place in Peppers life. He is an active board member of LSU’s Charles McClendon Scholarship Foundation. The scholarship gives children of former LSU student-athletes the financial means to receive an education. Pepper is also a member of the LSU Construction Management program and speaks at various events to promote the organization.

Pepper Rutland’s journey began at Louisiana State University where he earned a Bachelors of Science in Construction Technology & Engineering in 1972. He also played football for the LSU Tigers and was a member of the All Southeastern Conference (SEC) Academic Team in 1972. Pepper was also a member and Vice President of the National Construction Scholastic Society, Sigma Lambda Chi. He takes pride in being a member of the first graduating class from LSU’s Construction Technology program, which is now called the Construction Management program.

Recently, Pepper was honored by the University for his generous donations to the school. His contributions of over one million dollars were highlighted by a ribbon cutting ceremony and the naming of a gate at Tiger Stadium. The former student-athlete enjoys giving University students opportunities to ensure that they have bright futures ahead of them.

Additionally, Pepper’s professional success have resulted in MMR Group being inducted into the LSU College of Engineering’s Society for Engineering Excellence for their generous donations to the program. The donations have been extremely instrumental in developing and furthering the education of LSU’s engineering students. LSU has been able to create several engineering and computer laboratories within the newly-constructed College of Engineering building. The donations have allowed the department to give its students access to more advanced technology that includes a 3D building simulator and information modeling studio, and an advanced materials and methods laboratory. In addition to substantial donations, MMR Group also provides opportunities for LSU student athletes and students majoring in construction management to develop their skills through summer jobs and internship programs.