Louisiana Central will host Rally the Region, a collaborative initiative aimed at bridging the gap between education, workforce readiness, and economic development across a 10-parish region.

The event features nationally recognized workforce expert Mark C. Perna and Nathan Ohle, president and CEO of the International Economic Development Council. Local leaders from the Rapides Parish School Board, Central Louisiana Technical Community College, and the Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce will join regional stakeholders to discuss creating stronger pathways from the classroom to the local workforce.

WHAT: Rally the Region: Business & Industry Partners Session

WHEN: Tuesday, May 12, 2026 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

WHERE: England Airpark Community Center Alexandria, Louisiana

WHO:

• Chris Masingill, president and CEO, Louisiana Central

• Mark C. Perna, author and workforce expert

• Nathan Ohle, president and CEO, International Economic Development Council

• Jeff Powell, superintendent, Rapides Parish School Board

• Dr. Heather Poole, chancellor, Central Louisiana Technical Community College

• Deborah Randolph, president, Central Louisiana Regional Chamber of Commerce

• Regional business leaders, educators, and community stakeholders