The Tangipahoa Parish Economic Development Foundation (TEDF) recently convened for a pivotal installation brunch, marking the official seating of its 2025-26 Board of Directors. This event not only celebrated continuity in leadership but also underscored the region’s vibrant trajectory in fostering robust economic expansion. The foundation’s strategic direction remains firmly focused on cultivating an environment conducive to sustainable growth and opportunity across the Tangipahoa Parish.
A significant highlight of the installation was the re-election of Daniel Laborde of Hammond as president of the board for the upcoming term. His continued leadership is expected to provide stability and strategic oversight as the TEDF pursues its core mission of driving regional Economic Development. This reaffirmation of confidence in existing leadership reflects a commitment to established initiatives and future planning.
Joining Laborde in key executive roles, Dev Patel was re-elected to serve as vice president, while Beezie Landry assumed the vital position of secretary/treasurer. The comprehensive Board of Directors for 2025-26 also includes veteran members such as Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller, Parish Councilwoman Brigette Delatte-Hyde, Kristin Braud, Patrick Coudrain, Victoria Heyer, and Sandy Summers, rounding out the 13-member body dedicated to the parish’s progress.
During the proceedings, the board extended heartfelt gratitude to its outgoing members, including Ben Dutruch, Rhonda Sheridan, Superintendent Melissa Stilley, and Heather Tassin. Their collective dedication and years of service have been instrumental in laying a solid groundwork for the foundation’s achievements and its ongoing impact on the Local Economy.
Parish President Robby Miller delivered a concise yet impactful “state of the parish” address, painting an optimistic picture of regional advancement. He conservatively estimated the creation of over 7,500 new jobs within the past decade, a testament to significant Job Creation efforts. Miller forecasted sustained and accelerated growth for the parish into the latter half of the current decade, citing strong fundamentals and strategic initiatives.
Miller also took the opportunity to commend several locally-owned businesses that are not only marking significant milestones but are also transitioning leadership to second, third, and even fourth generations. This generational continuity underscores the enduring entrepreneurial spirit and resilience deeply embedded within the Louisiana Business landscape, contributing substantially to the parish’s economic fabric.
Furthermore, attendees received an insightful update on the evolving broadband industry from representatives of REV Business, the event’s sponsor. REV, celebrating its 90th year in the communications sector, highlighted advancements crucial for modern infrastructure, emphasizing how connectivity plays a pivotal role in facilitating contemporary Economic Development and supporting diverse enterprises.
The collective sentiment resonated with an air of optimism for the future. Ginger Cangelosi, TEDF Executive Director, expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support from the business community and the dedicated contributions of the TEDF board. Echoing her sentiments, Parish President Robby Miller confidently asserted that Tangipahoa Parish continues to distinguish itself as a premier location within the state, poised for a future of remarkable prosperity and innovation.
Leave a Reply