In 1999, the Women Who Mean Business Awards were established to honor women who are prominent leaders in their professions and communities. This year, six exceptional women from Acadia, Lafayette, St. Martin, and Vermilion parishes have been selected as finalists for the awards. The ceremony will take place on May 9 at The Jefferson on 1913 Kaliste Saloom Road.
The Trailblazer Award will be presented to Phebe Hayes, a retired professor and dean emerita at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, as well as the founder of The Iberia African American Historical Society. Other honorees include Missy Bienvenu Andrade, president and CEO of Community Foundation of Acadiana; Roya Boustany, chief prosecutor at the 15th Judicial District Court; Diane Meaux Broussard, Vermilion Parish clerk of court; Ellen Nora, Solomon House executive director; and Fumy Rita, LAGCOE executive director.
Heather Blanchard, President and CEO of United Way of Acadiana expressed pride in honoring these exceptional women from the community as part of the Women United initiative. This year’s ceremony will feature a more intimate format with informal seating and stylish décor. Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle over hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. KADN news anchor Marcelle Fontenot will serve as the emcee for the event.
