This year’s Leadership EXCEL Class spent this month in Lake Charles! The group first found themselves over at the Port of Lake Charles, where they were welcomed by Executive Director, Richert Self and Director of Cargo and Trade Development, Therrance Chretin.
From there they traveled down to the Seed Center, where they heard Disaster Recovery Updates from Mayor of Lake Charles, Nic Hunter. Updates continued from Clair Marceaux, who provided Disaster Recovery Update and Port Updates for Cameron Parish. Over lunch the class heard Economic Impact Updates from Vice President of Business and Workforce of the SWLA Economic Development Alliance, R.B. Smith. Wrapping up their visit, the participants were able to tour the SEED Center, and get an overview of how the process works from Adrian Wallace, Incubator Director.
They ended their afternoon with a visit to Chennault Airpark and Crying Eagle Brewery!
Leadership EXCEL stands for Experience in Community Enterprise and Leadership. The program is designed to prepare emerging leaders to meet the future leadership needs of our community. Through the exchange of viewpoints and experiences, participants are exposed to the challenges, opportunities, and vital issues affecting Acadia and Jeff Davis parishes. The EXCEL program is hosted by the Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Jeff Davis Chamber of Commerce. This program would not be possible without First National Bank of Louisiana, Home Bank, Acadia Parish Assessor’s Office, First Guaranty Bank, Suzy Webb with Acadia Parish Farm Bureau, Acadia Parish Police Jury, Bank of Commerce, Dugas, Soileau & Breaux, Fezzo’s of Crowley, Landmark of Rayne, Rayne Building & Loan and Rodney Lucas, Edward Jones.
