Economic development leaders representing five Northshore parishes recently gathered at Southeastern Louisiana University for a discussion that could mark the beginning of a new chapter in regional collaboration.
Hosted by Southeastern Louisiana University President Dr. William S. Wainwright, the November 3 gathering brought together representatives from Livingston, Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, St. Helena, and Washington parishes, along with Adam Knapp, CEO of Leaders for a Better Louisiana, formerly the Committee of 100 for Economic Development (C100).
While the five parishes are not all served by the same regional economic development organizations, they share important economic, educational, and workforce connections. Southeastern Louisiana University serves as a major higher education resource for the region, while Northshore Technical Community College maintains a presence in all five parishes. The Interstate 12 corridor also provides a significant economic connection, supporting business activity, workforce mobility, and opportunities for continued growth.
For Livingston Economic Development Council (LEDC) President and CEO Melody Lockwood, the gathering represented more than an opportunity to exchange ideas. It highlighted the potential for a new level of cooperation among neighboring parishes.
"One of the things that makes this opportunity so exciting is that, although we may operate within different economic development regions, our communities share many of the same opportunities, assets and challenges," said Lockwood. "Our businesses, workforce, educational institutions, and infrastructure are interconnected. It makes sense for us to explore ways to work together that strengthen not only our individual parishes, but the entire Northshore."
Lockwood noted that many of the relationships among the participating economic development professionals span more than two decades, creating a strong foundation of trust, mutual respect, and shared experience.
"Russell Richardson, Stacey Duvic, Adam Knapp and I have worked alongside one another in economic development for more than 20 years, at the state, regional, and local levels," Lockwood said. "We know each other's communities, we understand the importance of collaboration, and we recognize that there are opportunities in front of us that could be even more impactful if we approach them together. Having all served on the state level at LED, we each bring a broader perspective to our local roles."
The discussion underscored the important role that higher education, workforce development, civic leadership, and economic development organizations can play in advancing regional prosperity. Potential areas for future collaboration include workforce initiatives, business recruitment and retention, infrastructure priorities, and greater visibility for the Northshore as a place to invest and grow.
"From Livingston Parish's perspective, regional collaboration is not about diminishing our individual identities or priorities," Lockwood added. "It's about recognizing that when our neighboring parishes succeed, that success can create opportunities for our own businesses and residents as well. We have a unique opportunity to think beyond traditional boundaries, build on the relationships already in place, and explore what we can accomplish together."
LEDC expressed appreciation to Dr. Wainwright for convening the gathering and to Knapp and Leaders for a Better Louisiana for their engagement in discussions about the region's economic future.
Although the conversation is in its early stages, participants expressed enthusiasm about the potential for continued dialogue and stronger collaboration among the five parishes.
About the Livingston Economic Development Council
The Livingston Economic Development Council (LEDC) is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth, supporting existing industry, attracting new investment, encouraging business growth, and expanding economic opportunities throughout Livingston Parish.
