Mr. Rawls brings his experience in working with businesses with his previous work with the Louisiana State University Small Business Center where he counseled small business owners and entrepreneurs on how to start, improve, and develop their businesses.  He has a Bachelor’s degree in political science and a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Louisiana State University. He leads the efforts in creating partnerships between the public and private sectors.  These partnerships will improve the state's ability to recover from a potential disaster more quickly than in previous years and will enhance the economy of Louisiana by keeping post disaster contracts within the state.