Ileana Ledet, who joined Louisiana Economic Development as the chief economic competitiveness officer in June, is now responsible for enhancing the state’s economic competitiveness and ensuring sustainable growth for future generations. She says this role gives her the unique opportunity to create an environment that will keep people in Louisiana—and make other people want to move to the Pelican State. She especially loves LED’s wide array of projects, ranging from those in the realms of small businesses, logistics, energy, aerospace and technology.
“[Public service is] important because it’s about leaving the world, particularly Louisiana, in a better place,” she says. “Our work is about building a robust and growing economy that will elevate all of Louisiana, including the Hispanic community, and creating new opportunities and reasons for us to build lives here.”
As a Hispanic woman in a top public service role, Ledet encourages younger generations who are considering similar careers to show up with energy, be consistent, and to over-deliver and always do their homework. “Discipline and preparation are absolutely essential to succeed in public service,” she says.
In addition to her work at LED, Ledet serves on the board of KIPP New Orleans Schools. “It’s been one of the best boards to serve on because [I] get the opportunity to see how policies are being implemented in classrooms to best serve kids across the city,” she says. “Witnessing KIPP teachers in the classroom is a way to quickly become more optimistic and excited about what the future holds.”
In her spare time, Ledet enjoys reading (she says that Viva Nola Magazine is a great place to find positive stories about the Hispanic community), playing piano and walking around her neighborhood, City Park or Audubon Park. She also enjoys supporting local Hispanic businesses, such as Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco, Mayas, Empanola, and Baru Bistro and Tapas.
