November 4, 2025

Northshore Education Leaders Share Vision at Chamber State of Education Breakfast

The St. Tammany Chamber hosted its annual State of Education Breakfast on October 7, 2025, featuring insights from three key Northshore education leaders: Dr. William Wainwright, President of Southeastern Louisiana University; Dr. Jim Carlson, Chancellor of Northshore Technical Community College; and Frank Jabbia, Superintendent of the St. Tammany Parish School System.

The speakers highlighted both challenges and opportunities in the region’s educational landscape, from early literacy and numeracy initiatives to innovative programs preparing students for college and careers. Frank Jabbia emphasized the importance of leadership development in young students, while Dr. Carlson shared the college’s growing role in workforce training across healthcare, STEM and technical fields. Dr. Wainwright highlighted Southeastern’s commitment to cutting-edge programs, including AI integration and expanded health care and business offerings, supporting the Northshore’s economic growth. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the collaborative efforts shaping education in St. Tammany Parish and how these initiatives prepare students for success both locally and beyond. Read more and click below to view video of presentation.

Pictured (l-r) Frank Jabbia, Superintendent of the St. Tammany Parish School System; Dr. Daniel Roberts, Provost and Vice-Chancellor of Academics and Student Affairs of Northshore Technical Community College; Dr. Jim Carlson, Chancellor of Northshore Technical Community College; Lana Stevens with presenting sponsor Louisiana Organ and Procurement Agency; and Dr. William Wainwright, President of Southeastern Louisiana University

Meet Our Newest Chamber Members!

We are happy to welcome our newest Chamber members! These businesses and professionals add new perspectives and talents to our growing network. We look forward to supporting their successes and encouraging meaningful connections.

‣Austin J. Marquette - Compass Real Estate

‣Back 2 Da Rootz Smokehouse & BBQ, LLC

‣Bank of Louisiana

‣Coburn Supply Company

‣E&V Cleaning Services, LLC

‣Graze Craze

‣Happy Hands Therapy Services

‣James and Bradley, LLC

‣Lodge Factory Store

‣Network Tactics

‣Our Friends Closet

‣Polished to Perfection

‣Singleton Windows & Doors

‣Vital Caring Group

Tax Review Reveals Overspending in Mosquito District

A recent report from the Parish’s Tax Reduction and Stabilization Workgroup uncovered significant inefficiencies within the St. Tammany Mosquito Abatement District. The findings mark the first step in a broader effort to improve government efficiency and accountability across the parish. Read more.

Transparency Bills Rejected Ahead of Possible Redistricting

Louisiana lawmakers voted down two proposals aimed at increasing transparency in a potential redistricting session. The measures would have provided more time and public access to proposed maps as the state awaits a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could require new congressional boundaries. Read more.

Louisiana Lawmakers Approve 2026 Election Date Changes

Louisiana’s Legislature voted to move next year’s primary elections back one month, positioning the state for a possible redistricting session. The change anticipates a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that could require new congressional maps before the 2026 midterms. Read more.

PAR Commentary: Louisiana Election Dates Shift Amid Redistricting Uncertainty

The Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana highlights the Legislature’s recent move to delay spring 2026 elections, creating extra time in case the U.S. Supreme Court overturns the current congressional map. The change affects primaries, runoffs, and constitutional amendments, with partisan debates continuing over potential impacts. Click here to read the full commentary.

Featured Event: Next Week. Register here.

Tuesday, November 11

11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Ribbon Cutting for

Ferguson HVAC

68399 James St.,

Mandeville

Tuesday, November 18

11:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Ribbon Cutting for St. Tammany Parish Mobile Library at COAST Lacombe Senior Center

61720 Hwy. 434, Lacombe

Wednesday, November 19

10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

NYP Social/Brunch

The Toasted Yolk Cafe

206 Lake Dr.,

Covington

Congratulations to American Factory Direct Furniture on the opening of their Covington Warehouse Outlet at 210 New Camellia Blvd. We were thrilled to join their ribbon cutting celebration. Stop by to explore beautiful home furnishings and exceptional AFD customer service!

Congratulations to In-Telecom on expanding their national reach with the acquisition of Atlanta-based RealmConnect! This milestone strengthens their presence in 48 states, reflects Northshore’s growing impact in the tech sector, and welcomes new team members to the In-Telecom family. Read more.

Small Business Update Live: Preparing for 2026

Join the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on December 4 at Noon ET for a special Small Business Update: Preparing for 2026 and Beyond. Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley will discuss taxes, hiring, AI and emerging technologies shaping small businesses. Ask questions live and gain insights to prepare your business for the year ahead. RSVP here.

Pitch for $100K at 2026 NSpire Startup Slam

Applications are now open for STartUP Northshore’s 2026 NSpire Startup Slam, presented by Chevron! Three entrepreneurs will compete live for over $100,000 in prizes, including $50,000 in funding from Capital One. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your business at one of the Gulf South’s premier startup events. Apply by November 16! Read more.

Tulane & Palette Professional Series Launch

Tulane University and Palette Northshore are launching Wave of Impact, a new professional development series on Thursday, November 6. Designed for Northshore professionals, it offers networking, insight from top regional CEOs, and opportunities to grow leadership, technology, and financial skills. Spots are limited—attend the launch to be part of shaping future sessions. RSVP here.

The Chamber’s recent Business After Hours, sponsored by American Bank at their newly renovated Mandeville branch, brought together local business leaders for an evening of networking. Guests enjoyed live music, delicious catering, champagne, beer, a special cocktail truck, and a ribbon cutting celebrating the branch’s recent renovations.