9th Annual Women in Business Luncheon & Lagniappe

by | Jun 3, 2025 | Chamber News, Community News

The Ascension Chamber of Commerce hosted its 9th Annual Women in Business Luncheon & Lagniappe on May 14, 2025, at the Price LeBlanc PACE Center in Gonzales Presented by Our Lady of the Lake St. Elizabeth. This signature event welcomed over 450 attendees, continuing its tradition of celebrating, uplifting, and connecting the dynamic women who live and work in Ascension Parish.

A standout addition in recent years, the Women’s EmPOWER Hour captivated the audience with TED-style talks from local female leaders sharing real stories, real challenges, and real inspiration. This year’s speakers brought authenticity and wisdom to the stage, igniting a collective spirit of empowerment among guests. Caprice Cline, Co-Owner of Cypress Roofing, served as the emcee for the event, setting the tone with her poise and wit as she presented the stellar lineup of speakers: Makesha Judson, Corporate and Community Relations Advisor at Shell Geismar & Convent; Juanita Kuhner, Executive VP, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary for Hancock Whitney; Dr. Emily Cassidy, Thoracic Surgeon at Our Lady of the Lake Physician’s Group; and Kiran Chawla, Journalist, Investigative Reporter, and Founder of Unfiltered with Kiran. The EmPOWER Hour then transitioned into “Heart to Heart: A Panel Discussion,” sponsored by the Cardiovascular Institute of the South, where the speakers answered questions submitted by attendees, creating an honest and impactful exchange.

  • Makesha Judson

  • Juanita Kuhner

  • Dr. Emily Cassidy

  • Kiran Chawla

Women in Leadership Awarded to Amy Cheek Presented by Jackie McCreary.

This year’s Women in Leadership Award was presented to Amy Cheek, Owner of Trublue Water, in honor of her outstanding leadership, community involvement, and dedication to mentoring and uplifting other women in business throughout Ascension Parish.

Guests enjoyed a seated luncheon catered by Parc 73 and an engaging Social Hour featuring vibrant networking opportunities, shopping with local women-led vendors, and fun interactive experiences. The Social Hour included a bubbly bar sponsored by Atlas Dermatology, a photo booth sponsored by Neighbors Federal Credit Union and powered by The Looking Glass Photobooth, and a fan-favorite Hat Contest sponsored by Elite Waste & Construction Services, where attendees expressed their creativity and flair. The festive day concluded with a Wine(d) Down hour, sponsored by Gallagher, where attendees mingled with speakers, enjoyed specialty beverages, and reflected on the powerful conversations shared.

In support of the broader community, attendees contributed to a donation drive benefiting The Fellowship Center Community Care Center, helping collect essential hygiene items for those in need.

The Ascension Chamber proudly thanks its sponsors for making this event a success. In addition to Presenting Sponsor Our Lady of the Lake St. Elizabeth, the Chamber recognizes Platinum Sponsor Parc 73; Social Hour Sponsor HMC Generators, LLC; Photo Booth Sponsor Neighbors Federal Credit Union; Bubbly Bar Sponsor Atlas Dermatology; Panel Discussion Sponsor Cardiovascular Institute of the South; Wine(d) Down Bar Sponsor Gallagher; Dessert Sponsor Impala Terminals Burnside LLC; Swag Bag Sponsor Cabin & Courtyard Events; and Hat Contest Sponsor Elite Waste & Construction Services. Gold Sponsors included BASF Corporation, CF Industries, Guaranty Media, Nexstar Media Inc., and Williamson Cosmetic Center & Perenack Aesthetic Surgery.

The Chamber would like to thank Bayou Rose Photography, Ascension Boards & Balloons, The Looking Glass Photo Booth, Diez Signs, and the Price LeBlanc PACE Center. The Chamber would also like to thank our retail vendors Everglow Jewelry, Louisiana Gets LINXed – Permanent Bling by Mandy, Magnolia 23 Boutique, and Merle Norman Cosmetics and Boutique Gonzales for helping make the event’s Social Hour a success.

As the Chamber continues to foster spaces for professional growth and leadership, the Women in Business Luncheon & Lagniappe remains a shining example of the power of community, connection, and celebration.