Date: May 13, 2020
Time: 02:00PM - 03:00PM
You must be registered to participate!Lucas George Terracina
(December 01,1953 - March 14, 2018)
Lucas was born in Opelousas, Louisiana where he grew up and graduated from Opelousas Catholic High School. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management from Southwestern Louisiana University (ULL). Lucas began his career in mosquito control with Calasieu Parish in 1976. He became director in 1980 and retired after 35 years of service.
During his tenure, he took a newly created mosquito control program and built it into one of the prominent programs within the country. He actively promoted mosquito education within the school system. In addition, he helped to develop statewide certifications and workshops for all mosquito control workers.
Lucas took an active role in many professional organizations. He served on the Louisiana Mosquito Control Association as a Board member for 26 years and as President in 1983 and 2006. The LMCA awarded him the Hathaway Ritter Distinguished Achievement Award in recognition of outstanding contributions to the cause of mosquito control in Louisiana. He enjoyed being the co-editor of the LMCA newsletter for many years. Lucas was the first representative appointed to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture Advisory Commission on Pesticides. He was affiliated and served on the boards of many organizations that not only benefited mosquito control but his community as well.
Following the hurricanes of 2005 (Katrina and Rita) he and others were instrumental in appropriating the funds necessary to develop an arbovirus testing program at Louisiana State University (LSU) that supports the entire state. One of Lucas's great talents was lobbying and educating legislatures as to the need for continued mosquito control and research.
In the early 1990's he served as interim director for the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA). The AMCA honored him with their highest award, the "Medal of Honor" in 2002 for exemplary service and leadership. He represented the LMCA and the South-Central Region of the U.S. as Regional Director of the AMCA.
Lucas had a great love of family. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying both hunting and fishing. He especially loved watching his children and grandchildren participate in sports. He served many years as a volunteer coach for youth sports teams in soccer, baseball, and softball.
Lucas left a legacy of caring for his family, community, and profession.