Pictured from L-R.
Front Row: Sheila Hue, Program Chair; Trinisha Hayes, Executive Assistant; Brett Hernandez; Jennifer Dragna; Ravyn Taylor; Kerrill James; Ashlyn Pipsair; Allison Ledet; Ashlyn Buford; Beth Chiasson, Chamber President.
Back row: Haley Burley; Eric Gorman; Drake Duhon; Sarah Solet; Laura Verrett; and Ashley Spivey.
Not pictured: Christian Bergeron; Heidy Guidry; and David Scott
The St. Mary Chamber of Commerce proudly celebrated the graduation of the Leadership St. Mary Class of 2025 on Thursday, December 19, marking a significant milestone as the final class to complete the program under the Leadership St. Mary name. Since its inception, Leadership St. Mary has served as the Chamber’s flagship leadership development initiative, equipping community-minded professionals with the knowledge, connections, and insight needed to serve and lead across St. Mary Parish. The Class of 2025 continues that legacy, completing a year-long experience that included monthly full-day sessions, behind-the-scenes tours, and direct engagement with leaders in business, education, government, healthcare, industry, and the nonprofit sector.
Throughout the program, participants gained a deeper understanding of the Parish through themed days such as Local Leaders Day, Education Day, Economic Development Day, Nonprofit Day, and Culture, History, and Industry Day. Each class also collaborates on a parish-wide project designed to create lasting impact and address real community needs.
During the graduation ceremony, class representatives reflected on the profound personal and professional growth experienced throughout the year, highlighting the relationships built, perspectives gained, and renewed commitment to civic leadership.
During the Leadership St. Mary Class of 2025 graduation ceremony, Kerrill James was honored as the 2025 recipient of the Donna Meyer Leadership Award. This award recognizes an individual who exemplifies servant leadership, dedication, and a deep commitment to the betterment of St. Mary Parish. Kerrill’s passion for leadership, community involvement, and willingness to serve others reflects the spirit and legacy of Donna Meyer and embodies the values of the Leadership St. Mary program.
As the Chamber honors the legacy of Leadership St. Mary, it also looks ahead to the future with the launch of Ignite St. Mary, a rebranded and revitalized leadership program that will build upon this strong foundation. Ignite St. Mary will continue the Chamber’s mission of developing, inspiring, and connecting leaders while introducing a bold new vision for leadership in St. Mary Parish.
Applications are now open for the Ignite St. Mary Class of 2026, inviting the next generation of leaders to step forward and help shape the future of the Parish.
