UL Lafayette Alumnus and Employee Establishes Scholarship to Honor the Life and Legacy of Daughter Alexis “Lexi” Barbry

Mary Hooks Baudoin, an alumnus and staff member in the Department of Accounting at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, has established a scholarship in memory of her daughter, Alexis "Lexi" Barbry, who passed away on April 14, 2026, at the age of 28.

The Alexis Barbry Non-Endowed Scholarship in UL LIFE was born from her family’s love and shaped by Lexi's courage. It will provide financial assistance to students enrolled in the UL Lafayette LIFE (Learning Is For Everyone) Program; a comprehensive postsecondary initiative that expands access to educational, career, and campus-life opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“This scholarship is rooted in faith and gratitude, and represents a lasting commitment to access, belonging, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive at UL Lafayette,” Mary remarked. "As a university employee, graduate student and parent, I have seen firsthand how transformative inclusive postsecondary programs can be. It’s our hope that it will remove financial barriers and affirm the potential of each UL LIFE student who receives it.”

Currently a non-endowed fund, the scholarship will be converted into an endowed account once its value reaches $25,000, helping to ensure that more doors are opened and barriers lifted for current and future generations of students at the University. 

Lexi was diagnosed with lissencephaly when she was just 3 months old. But from the earliest days of her life, she refused to be defined by her diagnosis. She faced every challenge with strength and resilience, moving those around her to reflect on what truly matters. Her smile, her presence, and the warmth she carried with her became a kind of gathering force; drawing people together in ways that words rarely can.

She was born in Carencro, LA, and was a proud member of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, one of four federally recognized Native American tribes in the state, centered primarily in Avoyelles and Rapides Parishes, with approximately 1,500 tribal members who reside across four states. 

Lexi’s father, Earl J. Barbry Jr., Tribal Historic Preservation Officer and Project Director for the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana, reflected on the deeper meaning of the scholarship.

"My father, Earl Barbry Sr., dedicated his life to serving our people and strengthening our community. He believed deeply in education, opportunity, and lifting others up. I know he would be incredibly proud to see his granddaughter's name connected to a scholarship that helps students pursue their goals and build meaningful futures.”

Lexi found joy in experiencing life and being involved in her community. She loved to travel and go on adventures with her family, with one of her favorite experiences being their trip to Morgan's Wonderland in San Antonio, TX. Closer to home, she participated in the DREAMS Bowling League, supported fundraisers for Miles Perrett Cancer Services, attended Healing House Family Adventure Day, and participated in many other special events to support and empower others. 

Her life is also the inspiration behind the This Ability Podcast, created and hosted by her mother, Mary, and dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of individuals with disabilities, their families, friends, and caregivers. 

A celebration of Lexi’s life was held on Saturday, April 18. Mary and her family ask that those who wish to send condolences and honor Lexi, consider making a contribution to the scholarship fund. Gifts can be mailed to the UL Lafayette Foundation, P.O. Box 43657, Lafayette, LA 70504. Please include Fund #02094 in the memo line.