2016 Leadership St. Bernard Graduates 24 Participants

VIOLET, LA – Leadership St. Bernard graduated its 3rd class last week at Docville Farm in Violet, LA.

         Twenty-four participants were recognized for completing the orientation and eight class series. The ceremony was held on the second floor of the Arlene Meraux River Observation Center. Participants, family, and friends gathered for the evening program that included words from Keynote speaker Robert Brown, who expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to address the distinguished group and awe of the resources and beauty of St. Bernard Parish.  Ending the night was the recognition of graduates and distribution of hand-poured glass awards created by Leadership St. Bernard Alumni and owner of Studio Inferno, Mitchell Gaudet.

         Leadership St. Bernard reps said the group prides itself on providing a forum that motivates and increases the awareness of potential leaders in St. Bernard Parish by giving them an intensive course which encompasses a broad scope of community concerns. Graduates were given an intimate look at multiple facets of local government, business, and community affairs.

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         Leadership St. Bernard Co-Chairs Kerri Callais and Eric Schmidt, along with the LSB planning committee, assembled a diverse group of citizens and emerging leaders to bring a variety of perspectives, skills, and goals to the class.  

         “All of these graduates are vastly different in their backgrounds and interests,” Callais said. “However, everyone in this group shares one thing. That is the willingness and desire to be an active part in making St. Bernard a better place tomorrow than it was yesterday.”

         Leadership St. Bernard reps said graduates of the program believe that the knowledge gained and the relationships built will equip them to do greater things personally and professionally, ensuring that St. Bernard is a more enjoyable place to live and work. 

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         “There are great needs in our Parish, and it takes a coordinated effort to address our social and family services needed,” explained participant Kim Nunez. “I didn’t wait until we were finished the class before finding ways to work with fellow classmates. It began happening after the second class, and it continues today.”

         Stephen Reuther, CEO of the St. Bernard Chamber of Commerce, believes that Leadership St. Bernard is one of the most innovative programs sponsored by his organization. “Leadership St. Bernard is educating and engaging citizens of this Parish in a way that we haven’t had in recent history,” he said. “The program not only identifies needs within the community, but also creates a network of community leaders who can collaborate and pursue shared interests.” 

         Reuther expressed excitement about the growth of the program from its humble beginning just two years ago and, most recently, with the addition of The Arlene and Joseph Meraux Charitable Foundation as a key partner to the program. “They are friends and partners in making this community great, and their commitment to the program speaks volumes about their dedication to the community,” he said.

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         The next Leadership St. Bernard class will begin in the Fall of 2016 with applications being accepted sometime in September. Interested residents may contact the St. Bernard Chamber for additional information atinfo@stbernardchamber.org or (504) 277-4001.

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Leadership St. Bernard Co-chairs Eric Schmidt and Kerri Callais offer a few words about the growth of the program and reflections on the graduating class.

 

 

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