Leadership EXCEL Announces Ronald “Ronnie” Petree as Inaugural Alumni of the Year
Leadership EXCEL, a program dedicated to cultivating dynamic leaders in Acadia and Jeff Davis Parishes, is proud to announce Ronald “Ronnie” Wayne Petree as the inaugural recipient of the Alumni of the Year Award. The honor will be presented during the Graduation & Awards Ceremony on December 11, 2024.
Born and raised in Elton, Louisiana, and a resident of Welsh since the early 1990s, Ronnie Petree’s career and community contributions exemplify the values of Leadership EXCEL. With a career in banking spanning over four decades, he began as the Manager of the Elton office of American Bank of Welsh in 1978, rising to the position of President. Since 2020, he has served as Senior Vice-President and Welsh Manager at The Bank.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ronnie has made a mark on his community through a wide array of leadership roles, including:
- Chair of the Jeff Davis Parish Economic Development Commission
- Vice Chair and Board Member for the Louisiana Agricultural Finance Authority
- Board Member of the Louisiana Commodity Credit Commission
- Past Chair of the Jeff Davis Parish Library Board
- Current Chair of the Jeff Davis Parish Industrial Board
- Member of Christian World Ministries
- Director for the Jennings American Legion Hospital Board
Ronnie also holds key positions in organizations focused on tourism, commerce, and agriculture, demonstrating his deep commitment to fostering growth and innovation across multiple sectors.
The Leadership EXCEL Advisory Board believes Ronnie exemplifies the mission of Leadership EXCEL through his professional achievements, civic engagement, and steadfast dedication to Jeff Davis and Acadia Parishes. He has shown what it means to lead with vision and purpose.
Established in 1994, Leadership EXCEL was created by the Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Jeff Davis Chamber of Commerce to develop future leaders who are deeply invested in the region’s progress. Over the past 30 years, the program has graduated 28 classes and equipped hundreds of participants with the skills and knowledge needed to effect positive change.
The Alumni of the Year Award was introduced in 2024 to celebrate graduates who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and a lasting commitment to their communities.
Leadership EXCEL invites the community to join in celebrating the graduation of the 2024 class and Ronnie Petree’s remarkable achievements at the December 11th ceremony. For more information, please contact the Acadia Parish Chamber of Commerce.
