The Ascension Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2025 Business Expo on Thursday, August 14, at the Lamar-Dixon REV Center, presented by Cardiovascular Institute of the South. The annual event once again proved to be one of the largest networking gatherings in the region, attracting more than 700 business professionals, community leaders, and decision makers, and showcasing 119 local companies and organizations.
The luncheon opened with remarks from U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, who addressed attendees and expressed his support for the continued growth and success of Ascension Parish’s business community.
Ascension Public School Superintendent Dr. Edith Walker shared about the Partners in Education program, which aims to match at least one business or industry partner with every school to create meaningful academic support programs that are mutually beneficial for both students and community partners. Dr. Walker proudly presented awards to two outstanding Partners in Education who have provided exceptional support to their partner schools over the last year. Hero’s was honored as the 2024–25 Small Business Partner of the Year for supporting eight schools with more than 3,200 volunteer hours and contributions valued at over $12,000. VeraPro was honored as the 2024–25 Large Business Partner of the Year for partnering with five schools and providing impactful STEM education resources, district-level professional development, and ongoing technology support.
Closing out the luncheon, keynote speaker Julio Melara, business leader, author, publisher, and President and CEO of Melara Enterprises, challenged attendees to reflect on the mindset they bring to business and leadership. He contrasted a fixed mindset with a growth mindset, a lack mindset with an abundant mindset, and a negative mindset with a positive mindset. His message encouraged business leaders to “take your pick” and to be good stewards of the opportunities they have been given.
After lunch, the Business Expo Showcase opened its doors to hundreds of attendees who explored exhibitor booths, built connections, and discovered new opportunities to collaborate. The Passport to Prizes, sponsored by Williamson Eye Center and powered by Black Tie Auctions, added an element of fun by encouraging participants to engage with exhibitors and win prizes.
The event concluded with the Taste of Ascension Happy Hour & Industry Connect, sponsored by HMC Generators, where attendees enjoyed local food and beverages in a relaxed atmosphere while connecting directly with industry leaders.
“The Business Expo reflects the strength and vibrancy of Ascension’s business community,” said Donnie Miller, President and CEO of the Ascension Chamber of Commerce. “Every handshake, every booth, and every conversation builds momentum for our local economy. This year’s event once again highlighted the spirit of collaboration that drives our parish forward.”
The Ascension Chamber extends its gratitude to the many sponsors who made the event possible, including Ascension Credit Union, Ascension Public Schools Partners in Education, EFCU Financial, Adam McCarty State Farm, Cypress Roofing, Hancock Whitney, Nexstar Media Inc., Primary Care Plus, The Pixure Booth: Creative Photo Studio, and OnPath Credit Union.
For more information about the Ascension Chamber of Commerce, please visit AscensionChamber.com or contact the Chamber office at (225) 647-7487.
