Leadership Excel’s Agriculture Day was a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted connection between our communities and the land that sustains them. With boots on the ground and sleeves rolled up, the Class of 2025 spent the day immersed in the diverse and dynamic world of agriculture—exploring firsthand the people, places, and processes that fuel our regional economy.
The day began in the early morning with Tall Grass Farm, owner Burt Tietje. He welcomed the class for an insightful start to the day. From there, the group visited Progressive Tractor & Implement with Shane Soileau, gaining a clearer understanding of the technological advancements and machinery powering modern farming.
At the Lacassine Rail Loading Facility, Mark Pousson shared how infrastructure and transportation play a key role in agricultural distribution. A stop at Bayou Rum Distillery offered a look at value-added agriculture and agritourism, highlighting the innovation that transforms local crops into world-renowned products.
The midday Lunch & Learn at Jeff Davis Electric Co-Op featured a panel of local leaders—Staci Thibodeaux of Grace Ranch, McKinley Horaist of First South Farm Credit, and Chip Perrin of Coastal Plains—who offered invaluable insight into the financial, operational, and environmental sides of ag life in southwest Louisiana.
Later in the day, the class toured Sunshine Equipment to learn about John Deere’s role in servicing the equipment that supports regional farms and wrapped up with a visit to Supreme Rice’s Parboiled Rice Facility in Mermentau—an impressive operation that processes one of Louisiana’s most iconic crops.
The day culminated in a relaxed and lively crawfish boil at the Wells Fargo Building in Crowley, where alumni joined the current class to celebrate the bonds formed through shared experience. Crawfish were generously provided by Heinen Farms, offering the perfect end to a day rooted in tradition, innovation, and community.
Agriculture remains a pillar of both Jeff Davis and Acadia Parishes, and Leadership Excel’s Agriculture Day underscored the vital role it continues to play in shaping our economy, culture, and future.
