News Release Distributed 03/11/11

Former Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer opened with a discussion on leadership as 30 men and women from four parishes began the inaugural Leadership North program in Zachary March 10.

Roemer talked to the class about having the will to lead – even during critical times. In addition, he encouraged class members to be humble as leaders and to seek out areas where leadership is needed.

Comprising an area north of Baton Rouge called north capital region, Leadership North is a joint effort of the Zachary Chamber of Commerce, the LSU AgCenter’s Community Leadership and Economic Development Program and Louisiana Economic Development.

“The LSU AgCenter is invested in communities throughout Louisiana,” said Bobby Soileau, who serves as program director of Community Leadership and Economic Development in the LSU AgCenter. “This program will enhance the skills of these future leaders in this region.”

Leadership North provides educational opportunities for potential leaders interested in economic development and quality-of-life issues in their communities, Soileau said. The curriculum features nine seminars throughout the year and includes visits to the state Legislature and another community dealing with community and economic development issues.

“While there is room for improvement, the north capital region has tremendous strengths,” said Chip Mills, executive director of economic development for the Zachary Chamber.

“There are numerous lifestyle amenities and many options for businesses,” Mills said. “And I believe this region has potential of competing with any region in the country. Our goal for Leadership North is to bring emerging leaders together, identify needs and unify efforts.”

The inaugural class consists of the following individuals from East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Pointe Coupee and West Feliciana parishes:

Addie Armato, New Roads
David Beck, Zachary
Brent Bradley, Zachary
Danette Castello, Zachary
Benjamin Cavin, New Roads
Ryan Cooney, Baton Rouge
Dawn Davis, Clinton
Charmaine Efferson, Zachary
Tim Ellsworth, Zachary
Robert Farmer, St. Francisville
Andrew Grezaffi, St. Francisville
Melvin Harvey Jr., St. Francisville
Robert Jackson, Slaughter
David Latona, Baton Rouge
Jonathan Malden, Zachary
Alecisa Matte, New Roads
Jill McGraw, Zachary
Ann Mills, Zachary
Chip Mills, Zachary
Jill Ohlinger, Zachary
Dana Papania, New Roads
Rachel Pierson, Baton Rouge
Angie Rabalais, Zachary / Central
Lisa Rioux, Zachary
Joe Rush, Zachary
Sharon Samuel, Zachary
Evan Scroggs, Baton Rouge
Robert Snowden Sr., Zachary
Nicholas St. Germain, Slaughter
Ryan Talbot, Zach


Rick Bogren