Harry J. Longwell
Dr. Harry J. Longwell retired as the director and executive vice president of ExxonMobil Corporation, after more than 41 years with the company. His primary responsibilities included the corporation's worldwide oil, gas, coal, and mineral exploration and production and human resources.
A native of Alexandria, La., Longwell graduated from Louisiana State University in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in petroleum engineering. That same year, he began his career as a drilling engineer in Exxon Company, U.S.A.'s production office in New Orleans. After numerous assignments in Louisiana, California, Texas, New Jersey, and the United Kingdom, he returned to Houston in 1992 as the newly appointed president of Exxon Company, U.S.A. He was elected senior vice president of the corporation and director in 1995. He was named executive vice president of the corporation in 2001.
Longwell is the past chair of the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center’s Board of Visitors and was recently named a life member of the board. He is a distinguished member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and a member of the All-American Wildcatters. Longwell’s lifetime of community involvement also includes serving on the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering’s board of directors and executive committee and as chairman of the University of Dallas’ board of trustees. Currently, he is a member of the Bishop's Finance Council in the Diocese of Dallas. Longwell received an honorary Doctor of Science degree from LSU in August 2004 and was named Alumnus of the Year in 2005.
Longwell and his wife and Norma have been married for 58 years and have been blessed with four married sons and eight grandchildren.
My LSU Giving Story
What is your favorite memory involving LSU?
There are too many to just pick one. My experience at LSU was my first time away from
home for an extended time. It’s where I met my wife Norma, and it’s where I had the
honor of seeing my first child graduate 22 years after I did. Of course, the hundreds
of class memories and football games are wonderful memories as well.
What makes LSU unique?
The spirit, culture, and the overall level of support the students receive to successfully
forge their own paths.
Why did you choose to attend LSU?
I attended to study in the engineering program.
Why do you support LSU?
LSU is the best public university in Louisiana and its engineering curriculum gave
me the tools I needed to build a career that enables me to give back.
If someone asked you why he/she should make a gift to LSU, what would you say?
Any money contributed directly benefits the students and faculty and supports opportunities
that otherwise may not be possible.
What is your vision for LSU, and how do you think philanthropy can drive that vision?
My vision for LSU is that it continues to make progress academically and become a
top 10 public university. Philanthropy and its stewardship are essential to achieve
that goal.
What motivated you to accept our invitation to be an inaugural member of the LSU Foundation
National Board?
I have served LSU in similar capacities for over 35 years. I enjoy serving on boards
and committees, so the LSU Foundation National Board is my latest involvement.
What most excites you about being part of the National Board?
I am excited about the opportunity to give to the next generation.