Join us Thursday, September 4, for The Rapides Foundation’s 2025 Symposium. The event will be a luncheon beginning at 11:30 a.m. in the Hotel Bentley ballroom, 200 Desoto Street, Alexandria.

This year’s focus is Economic Development, featuring four presenters who will explore how decades of strategic investment in economic development have positioned Central Louisiana for growth.

• Joe Rosier, President and CEO of The Rapides Foundation, will reflect on why a health-focused foundation made economic development a key component in its mission to improve the health and well-being of Central Louisiana
• Jim Clinton, outgoing President and CEO of Louisiana Central and key figure in the region’s progress, will share insights from years of service and regional transformation.
• Susan Bourgeois, Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development, will outline the state’s plans to invest in and elevate rural communities, ensuring that regions like Central Louisiana are part of the state’s economic future.
• Chris Masingill, incoming President and CEO of Louisiana Central, will be introduced as the new leader tasked with guiding the next phase of economic development in Central Louisiana — a clear signal that the work continues and the future is bright.

Let us know if you can make it! RSVP