Louisiana Travel Association Launches New Leadership Event
The Louisiana Travel Association will host its newly revamped Women in Leadership Forum April 20–21 in Baton Rouge. The two-day event will take place at the Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel and aims to bring together women from multiple industries for professional development, networking, and mentorship.
According to Louisiana Travel Association representative Avery Hebert, the forum evolved from the organization’s former leadership and CEO-focused event. Organizers redesigned it to address the growing need for leadership resources and networking opportunities for women.
The travel and tourism industry includes a large number of women professionals, which helped inspire the event’s focus. However, organizers say the forum is open to women from any career field.
Speakers from Healthcare, Business, and Government
The forum features a diverse lineup of speakers representing several industries.
Featured speakers include:
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Dr. Catherine O’Neill of Our Lady of the Lake Health, who will discuss wellness and leadership balance
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Dr. Tonya Crombie of Southeastern Louisiana University, helping lead the program’s development
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The founder of Golden Lily Boutique, speaking about entrepreneurship and business ownership
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Julie Emerson, who will participate in a fireside discussion on leadership and public service
Panels will also explore mentorship, leadership development, and career growth across different generations.
Organizers say the varied backgrounds of speakers allow attendees to gain insight from multiple industries and leadership paths.
Networking, Wellness, and Professional Development
Beyond speaker sessions, the event will feature several networking and interactive experiences.
Planned activities include:
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An opening reception hosted by Visit Baton Rouge
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A morning stretch and yoga session with Yoga Rouge
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Wellness and scent therapy experiences
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Professional color analysis sessions focused on personal branding
These sessions aim to combine professional development with personal wellness and relationship building.
Tourism Industry Events Continue Across Louisiana
The forum is part of a busy year for the Louisiana Travel Association. Upcoming events include Tourism Day at the Capitol on May 20, where tourism organizations from across the state will meet with lawmakers.
The association will also host its annual Louisiana Travel Summit in New Orleans August 18–20.
Later this year, the organization plans to promote Louisiana tourism nationally through its Taste Louisiana event in Chicago, showcasing Louisiana chefs, food, music, and culture to attract visitors to the state.
Registration information and the full forum agenda are available on the Louisiana Travel Association website.