NATCHITOCHES – Bryan David Arceneaux, a Larose businessman and South Lafourche High School graduate, was among six alumni inducted into Northwestern State University’s Long Purple Line during Homecoming on Oct. 23.
The Long Purple Line is NSU’s Alumni Hall of Distinction and the highest honor the university bestows on graduates in recognition of their accomplishments and contributions.
Arceneaux played football at Northwestern alongside fellow South Lafourche alumni Bobby Hebert and Ed Orgeron. A four-year letterman and All-Conference player, Arceneaux helped the Demons win the 1984 Gulf Star Conference championship under head coach Sam Goodwin. He also served as a student coach in 1985.
During his senior year of high school, Arceneaux received an opportunity to join Northwestern’s football program in January, before completing high school.
Arceneaux recalled his first impression of Northwestern’s campus after growing up in the marshes of South Louisiana.
“Coming from south Louisiana in the marsh, seeing the pine trees, rolling hills, it was the prettiest campus I had ever been to,” Arceneaux said.
After graduating, Arceneaux returned to South Louisiana and established a career in business. In 1989, he founded Louisiana Spring Water, a water distribution company serving the region, before expanding into transportation and environmental services.
Today, Arceneaux is owner and CEO of Louisiana Southwest Transportation, Tank Specialties and Louisiana Environmental Transportation. His companies provide transportation, tank rentals and oilfield-related support services to refineries, industrial facilities and energy-sector clients throughout the Gulf Coast. The businesses employ more than 140 people.
Arceneaux said he has spent 40 years in business. He credits the self-discipline he developed at Northwestern with contributing to his professional success.
His family’s connections to the university have continued across generations.
“My wife graduated from Northwestern. Both of my boys wore the Demon uniform,” Arceneaux said.
Arceneaux has also remained involved with NSU athletics and alumni activities. He serves on the board of the Demon Brothers Booster Club and has supported fundraising events, including the Joe Delaney Memorial Spring Game and Crawfest. He has also encouraged young athletes he has coached to consider attending Northwestern.
In 2017, Northwestern’s athletic department recognized Arceneaux with the Legendary Link Award for his service and contributions to the university.