2026 Influential Women in Business Symposium & Luncheon

The Influential Women in Business Luncheon and Women’s Leadership Symposium brings two distinct events together in one impactful day.

The morning begins with the Women’s Leadership Symposium, built around this year’s theme: Transformation. Transformation isn’t a buzzword—it’s the reality shaping careers, organizations and communities. Through candid conversations with influential leaders, the symposium will explore how change is unfolding at every level and why understanding transformation is essential, not optional.

At the Influential Women in Business Awards Luncheon Baton Rouge Business Report recognizes an outstanding class of women whose leadership and achievements are making a lasting impact across the Capital Region.

Attend one event or join us for the full day to gain insight, make connections and celebrate the women helping lead our business community forward.

EVENT DETAILS:

May 19, 2026 | Crowne Plaza

2026 Women's Leadership Symposium | 8:15 - 11:15 AM

The Power of Transformation: Shaping What’s Next

SPEAKERS & PANELISTS

Danielle Brown, Global Head of Influencer Marketing at Google

Adrian Owen Jones + Melissa Thompson, Partners at Success Labs

Laurinda Calongne, Healthcare Executive & Author

Nina Dusang, Woman’s Hospital, EVP/CFO

Dean Vicki Colvin, LSU Engineering

Secretary Susan Bourgeois, Louisiana Economic Development

Kate MacArthur, Ascension Economic Development President & CEO

Krista Raney, LSU Foundation, EVP

Kristi Crump, Community Coffee, SVP/CCO

Influential Women in Business Luncheon | 11:45 AM to 1:15 PM