Leadership Jefferson

To facilitate the intense discussion and interaction we expect from program participants, we must allow them to develop a mutual respect and connection with each other. The program emphasizes teamwork, and the orientation session focuses on recognizing individual leadership abilities and their application in a team environment.

The Leadership Jefferson Class of 2019 kicked off an exciting year at the Biloxi Visitors Center on the Gulf Coast. The class learned about the Emergenetics of their brains and how we all work together as structural, analytical, social, or conceptual leaders and colleagues. Through activities and discussion, each class member learned more about how and why we act and react in various situations. The class also enjoyed time getting to know each other with a poolside social hour and dinner.  The retreat closed on Friday afternoon with everyone prepared to take on the issues of Jefferson Parish with new and more focused perspectives!

             

This session bridges the Kick-off retreat with the framework for the rest of the year. A trip to Westwego kicks off the first official session of the year. The day’s focus includes, but is not limited to, the elements that improve the quality of life/quality of place.

Leadership Jefferson held its first session for the Class of 2019. On Tuesday, October 9^th, the class met to discuss Quality of Life and Place in Jefferson Parish. The Westwego Community Center hosted the class as they explored what quality of life and place means to us as citizens and how we can be more aware and active in our communities. The Slone Group presented the class with activities that provoked thought and discussion. After lunch, the class was able to hear from leaders of Jefferson Parish. Chief Operating Officer, Keith Conley, Councilman Dominick Impastato, and Councilman Ricky Templet shared exciting new things happening in the parish, as well answered many questions from the class. Topics covered include drainage, coastal restoration, and the revitalizations of neighborhoods. The class was also able to tour the Westwego Museum to get a glimpse of Jefferson Parish’s past. This session set the tone for the rest of the year as the class tackles the issues of Jefferson Parish.

     
     

Healthcare is crucial to the quality of life in Jefferson Parish. The session seeks to identify the key concerns our region is facing (i.e. reimbursements) and participants are asked to give their solutions to a snowballing problem.

Our Healthcare session was held on Tuesday, November 13^th. We were once again graciously hosted by Tulane Health System at the Tulane Lakeside Hospital. Class of 2017 alum, Francis Maness, opened the session with a focus presentation on leadership and its role in Tulane’s environment. We had a our healthcare leadership panel with Nancy Cassagne, CEO of WJMC, Dr. William Lunn, CEO of Tulane Health System, and Erin Wray, VP of Ochsner Health System. The class was able to hear from the panel and ask direct questions about healthcare in our parish and region. The class was also treated to a Germ Glo presentation and activity and an informative flu presentation by Dr. Christen Mayer. The afternoon focused on the very important topic of mental health with an amazing panel. Dr. Gerry Cvitanovich, Jefferson Parish Coroner and Leadership Jefferson Alum, Chuck Credo with the Coroner’s office, and Lisa Romback with NAMI spoke to the class about the struggles we face as a community with the opioid crisis and mental health issues. It was an incredible informative day, and we truly appreciate Tulane Health System for graciously hosting us again year.

   

A bright and healthy future for Jefferson Parish rests on the area’s economic development. By introducing participants to the major players in the Parish’s development (like JEDCO and GNO, Inc), the program successfully makes a large concept an understandable subject.

Our Economic Development Session was held on Tuesday, December 11^th at the Port of New Orleans. The Class of 2019 took a field trip down to the river to see the port for themselves and learn about its vital and direct impact on our region. Jasmine Haralson with the Port welcomed the class with a general overview of the Port and its functions. Some of our incredible Leadership Jefferson alums from JEDCO, Kelsey Scram, Kate Moreano, and Kate Wendel, created an activity for our class so they could get a glimpse of what it is like to attract businesses to Jefferson Parish. We were then able to tour behind the flood wall and see the expansive working properties of the port. It was amazing to see all that goes into the port and its function.  After lunch, we had an amazing panel of three main players and drivers of economic development in our parish, state, and region. Jerry Bologna, CEO of JEDCO, Stephen Waguespack, CEO of LABI, and Michael Hecht, CEO of GNO, Inc, spoke to the class about the strengths and weaknesses of attracting and retaining businesses to Jefferson Parish and Louisiana. They are all so informative and motivational, and we are so excited they were able to speak to the Class of 2019. The Port of New Orleans was a gracious host with a beautiful view, and we appreciate them letting us visit with them for the day.

       

Historically, a panel is invited to field questions by participants on the growing concern of our national educational system and how new bills/laws will affect us locally (A visit to Archbishop Chapelle High and Alfred Bonnabel High round out the day). We take a look at all of the types of educational systems we provide in Jefferson parish – private, public, parochial and the newly added charter school.

The Class of 2019 held its Education session on Tuesday, January 8^th. JEDCO hosted us at its beautiful conference center, and they were a gracious host. Our morning panel was dynamic and informative. Dr. Cade Brumley, Superintendent, JPPSS, Lucy Lejeune, Career & Technical Director, JPPSS, Jim Garvey, President, BESE, and Paula Polito, Owner/Director of Beary Cherry Tree took time to present to the class and enlighten them on the importance, struggles, and initiatives of our education system. After lunch, the class took an informative tour of Patrick F. Taylor Academy and were able to get a first hand look at the future and possibilities of education.  In the afternoon, Dr. Christel Slaughter spoke to the class about the vital work and vision of LA Calling in developing a stronger workforce in the state. This day proved to increase the perspective and understanding of education and its connection to economic development and overall strength of Jefferson Parish and our region.

         

Participants spend the day – Building a shared understanding of what “diversity” and “inclusion” should mean within the context of workplace objectives; Creating awareness of their personal knowledge, understanding, acceptance, and behavior with reference to diversity; Expanding their knowledge of facts surrounding perceptions that create misconceptions.

The Class of 2019 participated in its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion session on February 12. Thank you to Session Sponsor, Councilman Dominick Impastato, generously sponsoring the day at the Pontchartrain Center.

The Slone Group facilitated the day as the class expanded their perspectives on diversity and inclusion within themselves, their communities and workplaces. Deacon Martin Gutierrez with Catholic Charities spoke to the class about the popular misconceptions of immigration and his personal experience with it. Ramona Graham with CASA Jefferson provided an eye-opening and thought provoking activity so the class could see various points of view. It was a successful and important day of conversations and understanding amongst the class.

    

A major challenge every community faces is trying to inform citizens about government. Many perceive the political structure to be complicated and beyond their reach; the program works to give the participants an up close look at our parish’s political structure to demystify and educate everyone on local government. The highlight of the day is when participants are able to take a jail tour and see what life is really like behind bars.

On Tuesday, March 13^th, Leadership Jefferson was able to experience several aspects of our law enforcement first hand. The day began with a visit to Judge Darensburg’s Drug Court in the 24^th District. The class sat through Judge Darensburg’s and Judge Falkner’s dockets and was given an unique perspective into how Jefferson Parish is tackling the drug use in our community. After, the class was given a guided tour of the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center. This was a very eye-opening experience, and the class learned so much from the JPCC staff, especially the need for more correction officers. The class then headed over to the JPSO Crime Lab where Sheriff Joseph Lopinto and Chief Scanlan spoke to them about the strengths and weaknesses of the law enforcement in Jefferson Parish. The day ended with a guided tour of the amazing crime lab. This facility is truly state of the art and impressive to see first-hand. The Governance Session was a success, and we thank the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Lopinto and his staff for being such generous hosts to the Class of 2019.

    

The Community Involvement session is held at the New Orleans Saints Indoor Training Facility. The session touches on the importance of being good citizens, as well as leaders and professionals. The class is even treated to a tour of the facilities where the Saints & Pelicans practice during the year!

A compilation of all of the sessions and what “stuck out” the most to each participant is reviewed. This is the final session before graduation.

Program participants gather for the final event, their graduation, for dinner and a ceremony commemorating the learning experiences and friendships they have made.

The 3rd Annual Holiday Social was a hit! The current class and alumni gathered at Fleming’s Steakhouse for happy hour drinks and appetizers following the Economic Development session.

              

Alumni and current class members came together for drinks, appetizers, networking, and fun! Thanks to Mellow Mushroom for hosting and taking good care of our group!

         

The Leadership Jefferson Class of 2018 and alumni gathered for a night of networking, basketball, and fun for a happy hour followed by the New Orleans Pelicans vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game!

     

Leadership Jefferson had a blast at our 2nd Annual Holiday Social. The current class and alumni mingled at Bonefish Grill following the Economic Development session. We enjoyed appetizers, happy hour drinks, and the company! Happy Holidays!!

     

     

     

Opening Retreat

The Class of 2018 kicked off an exciting year with an informative and motivating opening retreat. On September 22^nd and 23^rd, the class met at Harrah’s Gulf Coast to learn more about themselves through Emergenetics and each other. The Slone Group facilitated various activities to engage each member and create a strong foundation from which the rest of the year will grow. Everyone enjoyed meeting one another and bonding as a class, and we are definitely looking forward to the rest of the year!

              

Quality of Life

Leadership Jefferson’s Quality of Life Session was held on Tuesday, October 10^th at JPAS’s Westwego Community Center. The class spent the day discussing what quality of life and place means, and how it affects where we work, live and play in Jefferson Parish. Parish President Mike Yenni spoke to the class about the recent improvements and future plans to improve drainage, transportation, and retail & housing developments in our area.  Karl Weber with Atmos Energy presented to the group and facilitated an interactive community activity. Kenner Councilman Dominick Impastato touched on recent recreation initiatives. Todd Murphy also spoke to the group about Jefferson Chamber initiatives for businesses in our area. The Slone Group wrapped up the day by including our Emergenetics perspectives and class discussion on how, as leaders, we can improve our quality of life and place for Jefferson Parish.

    

    

Healthcare

This year, our Healthcare Session was held at Tulane Lakeside Hospital on November 14th. Tulane Health System was our very gracious Session Sponsor, and we appreciate their support and hospitality! The Class of 2018 experienced an enlightening day with dynamic speakers in the healthcare profession. In the morning, we had a very informative Q&A panel with West Jefferson Medical Center CEO, Nancy Cassagne, Ochsner New Orleans CEO, Rob Wolterman, and Tulane Health System CEO, Dr. William Lunn. We gained insight into the strengths and challenges of our local hospitals, and we were able to discuss what the future holds for healthcare in Jefferson Parish and our region. In the afternoon, we shifted to the very important topic of mental health. Shannon Williams and Meghan Goldbeck with NAMI New Orleans spoke to the group about what services and programs are available in our area for those with mental illness. Chuck Credo offered us insight to the legislative side of mental health, and the important role that lawmakers have in this issue. We ended our day with an interactive conference call with Senator Bill Cassidy. We were able to hear what is being done on a federal level on Healthcare in our state. Senator Cassidy answered all of our questions, and we greatly appreciated the time he took to talk with us. Overall, it was a great day, and everyone walked away with more knowledge and perspective on the topic of healthcare and its impact on our area.

Our Economic Development Session will be held on Tuesday, December 12^th at JEDCO!

         

Economic Development

Leadership Jefferson held this year’s Economic Development session at the JEDCO Conference Center on Tuesday, December 12^th.  We had an educational day with dynamic speakers from local organizations. Jerry Bologna spoke to the class about the services that JEDCO provides and how it helps expand and attract businesses to Jefferson Parish. We heard more about the future plans for the Elmwood area and the expansion of Ochsner. Rachel Shields with GNO, Inc presented to us about the challenges and strengths about bringing new business into our entire Southeast area through collaboration in our region. The Slone Group revisited Emergenetics and how the different minds view and tackle innovation. Stephen Waguespack presented to the group about Louisiana economy and how it affects business growth. Michelle Ganon with the Port of New Orleans gave insight to the port and its importance and function to this area. Overall, it was an educational day for the class!

Governance

On Tuesday, March 13^th, we held our Governance session. An annual favorite, this session feel more like a “class field trip” than the others. Always supportive, our Host & Lunch Sponsor, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office,  provided us with a wonderful day.  We began our day in the courtroom of Judge June Darensburg in the Thomas F. Donelon Courthouse. There the class was able to experience Drug Court firsthand while Judge Darensburg and Judge Faulkner presided. Drug Court is a positive and proactive program in Jefferson Parish that truly benefits and uplifts those who complete the program.  We then toured the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center which is always a very eye-opening experience. We moved over to the JPSO Crime Lab for a tour of this truly state-of-the-art facility. We learned so much about crime scene investigation, and how and why the JPSO is so efficient and one of the best in the state and nation. Chief Scanlan and Major Pitfield were so informative and went above and beyond for our group. We ended the day with a presentation from Sheriff Joe Lopinto. We were so thankful that he took the time to speak to the group about the Sheriff’s office, and its abilities, challenges, and many strengths. Again, a huge thank you to JPSO for all of their assistance and support every year of Leadership Jefferson.

   

   

Education

The Jefferson Parish Public School System and Bonnabel High School were our gracious hosts for our Education Session. Lucy Lejeune, Career & Technical Coordinator with JPPSS, opened the day by providing the class with information about the new growth, improvements, higher education preparation in JPPSS. Next, the class heard from Jim Garvey, President of BESE Board, about the regional issues facing education in the state. We were delighted to have Dr. Christel Slaughter with LA Calling give us insight to how we can get our young adults and graduates ready for the workforce and how change of perspective of certain industries is desperately needed. Bonnabel’s Principal Dawn Kalb guided the class on a tour of the engineering and auto areas of BHS. It was amazing to see what is available for our students to prepare them for the future. Finally, Arlanda Williams with Delgado Community College spoke to the group about workforce development programs for several companies such as Entergy, Sheraton, and other local industries such as hospitality and the culinary arts. Our day proved to be very educational!

Diversity & Inclusion

Our Diversity and Inclusion session was held on Tuesday, February 6th. A big thank you to The Forum for being our host sponsor for this session! The class was able to experience various perspectives of race, gender, immigration, and generational diversity. Our speakers and presenters included Sarah Jane Guidry from the Forum for Equality, Martin Gutierrez from Catholic Charities, and Ramona Graham from CASA Jefferson. There were several activities throughout the day that created wonderful and honest discussion among class members.

   

Community Involvement

Class of 2018 had their last Monthly Session on Tuesday, April 10th. They were graciously hosted by the New Orleans Saints & Pelicans at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center on Airline Drive. The class learned about more about how they can give back to the community through volunteering, becoming engaged and aware, being advocates for those in need. The Chamber’s own Amanda Hoerner gave the class information about how to become more involved in our business community through Ambassadors and committees. Kevin Gardere with Bridge House/Grace House presented to the ever growing opioid problem in our area, how it is affecting us, and how we can help through donations to Bridge House/Grace House. United Way was also involved in our session. Senior Vice President, Leigh Thorpe, informed the class of the startling statistics of the working families below the poverty level in Jefferson Parish and what United Way is doing to get them the help they need to thrive. Rosana Gonzalez with CASA Jefferson again spoke to our class about advocating for the most vulnerable in our community, our children. CASA Jefferson is making great strides in the lives of children in Jefferson Parish, but they cannot do it without the help of our community. Last, but certainly not least, the class was able to tour the beautiful home of our New Orleans Saints. It is truly impressive, and we are so grateful to Mrs. Benson and the Saints organization for allowing us to visit and have our session there.

   

Closing Retreat

Leadership Jefferson’s Class of 2018 held their final Closing Session Friday, May 18^th at the beautiful conference room at Fidelity Bank on Metairie Road. Throughout the day, the class wrapped up a dynamic year. They revisited Emergenetics profiles, participated in small group activities, and discussed what leadership means to them. They were able to say goodbyes to one another and have many laughs. We want to thank OfficeLink FileLink ShredLink as our very special Session Sponsor! They provided the class with information on their amazing company and left everyone with a commemorative water bottle. The rain did not wash out our last session together! We look forward to Graduation on Tuesday, June 5^th!