The Jefferson Chamber plays a vital role in the revitalization of our community. Through committee involvement, you can drive change in areas like education, government, business and quality of life. By selecting a committee, Chamber members can match their passion and interests in service to our community. Committee membership is open to all Chamber member firms and their employees. Add value to your Chamber membership and sign up for a committee today!
Each committee normally meets once monthly at 8 or 8:30 a.m. and the meetings last approximately one hour in the Jefferson Chamber’s large conference room. Occasionally, committee meeting dates and times will change to accommodate guest speakers or site visits and tours of unique locations in Jefferson Parish. All changes to normal meeting times and locations are communicated by the corresponding Chamber staff liaison.
Ambassadors:
Recognizable as “meeters and greeters” at Jefferson Chamber events, the Ambassadors are considered an extension of the Jefferson Chamber team for time that they dedicate to volunteering throughout the year. This application-based committee meets the first Friday of each month, at which time they sign up for new member welcome bag deliveries and upcoming events, make member-to-member check-in calls, and sign renewal thank you cards.
Chair: John Roberts, Moxey
Staff: Amanda Hoerner, amandah@jeffersonchamber.org
Meetings: The first Friday of each month
In 2023, our Ambassadors delivered 196 new member bags, conducted 48 ribbon cuttings and co-hosted six Business & Breakfasts, four Business Card Exchanges and six Chamber 101 informational luncheons. Ambassadors volunteered at every signature event conducted by the Jefferson Chamber including Annual Meeting, Legislative Breakfast, Black & Gold Gala, Crawfish Boil, Tour de Jefferson, Golf Classic, and State of Jefferson. Thank you, 2023 Ambassadors for your enthusiasm and dedication!
Education & Workforce Development:
The Education and Workforce Development Committee actively engages in the local education system to strengthen tomorrow’s workforce. This committee generally meets on the second Wednesday of the month. This committee’s mission is to foster a collaborative, strategic approach from birth through workforce development which leads to a sustainable workforce for our community. Through advocacy, investment, and new ideas, the committee aims to take accountable action to unify and grow a better Jefferson Parish. The Education and Workforce Development Committee invites multiple guest speakers throughout the year from universities and colleges in the community, the Superintendent of Jefferson Parish Public Schools, as well as leaders in early childhood and education.
Chair: Chris Rholdon, University of Holy Cross
Staff: Caroline Starlight, caroline@jeffersonchamber.org
Meetings: The second Wednesday of each month
In 2023, the Education and Workforce Development Committee welcomed speakers including the Superintendent of the Jefferson Parish Public School System and conducted site visits to the STEM Library Lab and Laitram.
Governmental Affairs:
The Governmental Affairs Committee briefs membership on current political issues and makes recommendations to the Chamber’s Board of Directors. This committee informs our members about what is happening in the local, state, and federal government while discussing topics such as insurance reform, tax reform, updates on the legislative sessions, and more. It is also an opportunity for our members to be in the same room as legislators and leaders in the government realm to discuss which issues their businesses are facing and what our Parish can do to help.
Chair: Nora Vaden Holmes, Nora Vaden Holmes Insurance Agency
Staff: Caroline Starlight, caroline@jeffersonchamber.org
Meetings: The fourth Tuesday of each month
In 2023, the Governmental Affairs Committee heard from several policy-based organizations including Advantous Consulting, GNO Inc., and The Pelican Institute. Additional speakers included Senator Bill Cassidy, as well as state legislators Senator Cameron Henry, Representative Stephanie Hilferty, Representative Laurie Schlegel, and Representative Polly Thomas.
Health & Wellness:
The Health and Wellness Committee educates businesses on the benefits of a healthier workforce and encourages and provides support for healthier lifestyles in Jefferson Parish. This committee supports healthy initiatives through its LiveWell Jefferson campaign. By educating employers on the importance and implementation of health and wellness programs, the Livewell Jefferson campaign will create more productive employees, attract and retain talent, build staff morale, combat employee absenteeism, minimize staff turnover, and reduce healthcare costs for employers. All Health & Wellness committee members are expected to promote the LiveWell Jefferson campaign, serve on one of three subcommittees (summit planning, awards, content planning) and attend the annual LiveWell Jefferson Worksite Wellness Summit.
Chair: Tara Miller, Ochsner Health
Staff: Amanda Hoerner, amandah@jeffersonchamber.org
Meetings: The first Wednesday of every other month
Young Professionals:
The Jefferson Chamber Young Professionals (JCYP) Committee targets young professionals in the community and plans and executes educational events, networking events, and leadership development opportunities. The mission of the Young Professionals is to cultivate future civic and economic leaders of Jefferson Parish and the surrounding community through philanthropic initiatives, education, and leadership development opportunities. The JCYP Committee meets to plan and discuss ideas for events such as Eats & Edu., Coffee & Community, and socials. Eats & Edu. and Coffee & Community are opportunities for Young Professionals to engage with prominent leaders in our region and hear about their expertise and experience. JCYP is also involved in community volunteer opportunities and maintains active involvement in the Chamber’s larger networking events.
Chair: Barcley Steib, Barcley J. Steib Insurance Agency
Staff: Carlos Garcia, carlos@jeffersonchamber.org
Meetings: The first Tuesday of each month
Additionally, multiple JCYP members graduated from Leadership Jefferson’s Class of 2023 including Madison Boudoin, Daina Dalesandro, Joe Eagan, Andrew Koehler, Andrew Martin, Charlie Mentz, and Emily Rebert.
To join a Jefferson Chamber committee, visit jeffersonchamber.org/about/committees.
