1. Opening Reflection: Stepping Into Leadership Lafayette
I first learned about Leadership Lafayette through my dear friend, Liz Romar, a proud graduate of Class 37. She believed I would be a great fit, nominated me, and encouraged me to apply.
I was drawn to Leadership Lafayette because I wanted to learn more about our community and what it truly takes to be a leader here. I’ll admit—I was both excited and uncertain about what to expect when I applied. Leadership Lafayette quickly taught us that leadership isn’t just about directing others—it’s about engaging, listening, and taking meaningful action.
As the Leadership Institute of Acadiana puts it, “The Leadership Lafayette experience is not a starting point for leadership development, but rather a process for leaders to refine and enhance their commitment to our community.” That proved to be true in every sense.
2. The Commitment and the Community
To my surprise and gratitude, I was selected from a diverse pool of applicants to join Class XXXVIII—The Great 38.Our class included 35 other leaders from all walks of life: doctors, lawyers, professors, artists, nonprofit leaders, business owners, and more.
There’s both a financial and time commitment to the program. The tuition is $2,500, and as a single mother and sole owner of a new law firm, that could have been a barrier. I am deeply thankful to Louisiana Institute of Acadiana, for awarding me a partial scholarship, and to Broussard & David, The Law Office of Valex Amos, and Domengeaux, Wright, Roy, and Edwards for sponsoring me. Their belief in this program—and in me—made my participation possible.
Leadership Lafayette also required us to commit to orientation, an opening retreat, and monthly sessions. Balancing professional, personal, and civic responsibilities wasn’t always easy, but my passion for becoming a more informed and involved leader kept me going.
Our class was guided with heart and vision by our former Executive Director, Katrena King, and our dedicated class co-chairs, Billy Hobbs and Torilyn Williams, who made the experience truly unforgettable. They are true changemakers who embody the spirit of servant leadership.
My first impression of my classmates at opening retreat was pure awe. These leaders didn’t just talk about change—they lived it. We connected immediately at our opening retreat and, by graduation, had become lifelong friends.
Whenever I felt stretched thin, the dedication of my classmates reignited my passion. Their diverse perspectives sparked incredible ideas for community impact—one being Amber Bessard’s “Festival de Fit Fête,” which made it to the finals of the 24-Hour Citizen Project. Many of us, including me, joined her team to bring it to life. While we didn’t secure immediate funding, several investors pledged support for the festival’s future, proving that collaboration works.
3. Lessons from the Field: Highlights from Each Session
SIMSOC (Simulated Society)
This exercise taught me about privilege, systems, and empathy. My team struggled with food and resource insecurity. Because survival came first, I couldn’t engage in “government” or employment. The compassion shown by other teams who shared food and jobs reminded me that empathy and community care are the foundation of real leadership.
Local Government Day
We gained a firsthand look at how our local government operates—from the courts to city council. It gave me a deep appreciation for those who serve in these vital roles.
Capital Day
We visited the state capitol and met with our legislators. I was surprised to learn how modestly they’re compensated for such demanding, essential work. Their openness and gratitude for our visit left a lasting impression.
Culture & Quality of Life Day
We explored Lafayette’s soul—its art, music, and heritage—and how culture shapes identity. This day reminds me of why Festival de Fit Fête—a celebration that merges our love of culture with wellness—was birthed.
Health & Wellness Day
Held at Ochsner Lafayette General, this session gave us insight into our local healthcare system—its progress, challenges, and the compassion that fuels those who serve.
Community Needs Day
We learned about ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households—families living above the poverty line but still struggling to meet basic needs. It reinforced the importance of holistic, community-wide solutions to systemic issues.
We had other powerful sessions including Economic Development and Education. Throughout Leadership Lafayette, we had amazing speakers like Judge Valerie Gotch Garrett who taught about leading with compassion. We also had amazing experiences and were given unique looks at our community.
4. Transformational Moments
Our class was a family. We laughed together, cried together, and lifted each other up. I came to understand leadership not as a title, but as a choice—a daily decision to care, to act, and to show up.
We cannot sit back with apathy and expect transformation. It takes doers—people willing to step forward, collaborate, and work toward change. Leadership Lafayette transformed how I see my community, my role, and my responsibility to both.
One of the most powerful parts of this journey wasn’t just what we learned—it was how we showed up for each other. Our team supported one another through major milestones, both personal and professional. Several of my classmates were recognized as part of The705’s Top 20 Under 40, and their achievements reminded us how deeply leadership is woven into every corner of our community.
When I received the Be Brave Award from the Lafayette Commission on the Needs of Women, many of my classmates were there cheering me on. That kind of support is what leadership should look like—standing with one another, celebrating one another, and reminding each other why the work we do matters. It’s the kind of energy that recharges you and makes you want to keep showing up for your community.
5. Graduation and What Comes Next
Graduation week was filled with emotion—pride, nostalgia, and excitement. The energy was electric as we closed this chapter together. Many of us had big weekends ahead, from the 24-Hour Citizen Project to Professor Michael Eble’s gallery opening at the Acadiana Center for the Arts. I’m deeply grateful to my family for showing up to witness this milestone moment. Their presence made an already special day unforgettable.
By graduating, we joined a network of nearly 1,000 alumni dedicated to shaping Acadiana’s future. Every time I meet another Leadership Lafayette alum, we immediately start reminiscing about our class and reflecting on its impact. The legacy of this program is powerful and lasting.
I plan to apply what I’ve learned to my work at Gallien Law, my role as a mother, and my continued service to the community. Our class continues to lead together—like when Jeremy Anderson recently organized a sleeping bag drive for Catholic Charities ahead of a cold front. We’re exploring more volunteer opportunities, such as serving at St. Joseph’s Diner, to keep our momentum alive.
Why Not You?
If you’ve been thinking about stepping into leadership, this is your sign. Applications for Leadership Lafayette close November 14th. The process is straightforward—I completed mine in less than an hour. Don’t let hesitation stop you. Be part of Acadiana’s next class of changemakers.
6. Gratitude and Final Reflections
A heartfelt thank you to Leadership Lafayette, my sponsors, our former Executive Director Katrena King, our class co-chairs Billy Hobbs and Torilyn Williams, my classmates, and every speaker and supporter who poured into us this year. I’m forever grateful for this experience.
Remember: Leadership is a choice. When you show up for your community, you create an impact beyond your wildest dreams. Let’s keep showing up—together.
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