Donald R. Cravins Jr.
The Honorable Donald “Don” R. Cravins Jr. of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, is an alumnus of LSU, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1994. Cravins currently serves as vice president of policy and external affairs at Charter Communications, Inc., assisting in the development of the company’s policy agenda and expanding its impact and influence with stakeholders and community partners. In addition to his duties at Charter, Cravins is an adjunct professor at The George Washington University and serves as a Major in the DC National Guard.
Prior to joining Charter, Cravins served as senior vice president for policy of the National Urban League. Since 1998, Cravins has been an attorney and member of the Louisiana Bar Association. In 2004, he was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives, and in 2006, he was elected to the Louisiana Senate. During his tenure in the legislature, Cravins was heavily involved in post-Hurricane Katrina issues as the chairman of the Senate Insurance Committee. He ran for Congress in the 7th Congressional District of Louisiana and later left the legislature to serve as staff director of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. In 2013, Cravins began serving as chief of staff for U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu of Louisiana.
Among other honors, Cravins was inducted into the Southern University Law School Hall of Fame and named a Distinguished Alumnus of LSU. He is married to attorney Yvette Puckett Cravins, who serves as chief of staff for Congressman Lacy Clay of Missouri. The couple has three children, Dominique, Trey, and Chloe.
My LSU Giving Story
What is your favorite memory involving LSU?
My favorite memory of LSU is the fraternity experience. My experiences as a member
of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., shaped my life in very positive ways and introduced
me to my lifelong friends. It also served as a networking tool which has yielded dividends
in my professional life.
What makes LSU unique?
LSU is a unique place because, despite its small, Southern feel, it is extremely diverse
and serves as a place where students from all backgrounds can thrive.
Why did you choose to attend LSU?
I chose LSU because of the scholarship opportunities, its proximity to my hometown,
and its diversity.
Why do you support LSU?
I support LSU to ensure it is able to continue its mission and has the resources necessary
to educate Louisiana's best and brightest. I also support it because my daughter is
an LSU student.
If someone asked you why he/she should make a gift to LSU, what would you say?
LSU is not the same university it was 20 years ago. It is a thriving, diverse university
that is making permanent change in Louisiana and the nation. That growth can only
continue with your gift.
What is your vision for LSU, and how do you think philanthropy can drive that vision?
My vision for LSU is that it will continue to grow and thrive. I hope that, through
philanthropy, LSU will
have the resources to continue moving Louisiana forward and driving economic opportunities.
What motivated you to accept our invitation to be an inaugural member of the LSU Foundation
National Board?
I accepted the invitation because I support the current leadership's vision for the
university.
What most excited you about being part of the National Board?
I am most excited about the opportunity to share the good news coming from the university
with others!
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