Who We Are

#GoNatchitoches Mindset

The #GoNatchitoches project is a coalition between the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association, Cane River National Heritage Area, the Natchitoches Parish Tourism Commission, Natchitoches Main Street, and the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce.

Living the #GoNatchitoches mindset means taking a pledge to Support Local: shop local, eat local, promote local, and encourage others to take the pledge with you.


Our Story

Since 1919, the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC) has served as the leading organization to support businesses throughout the parish. For over a century, the Chamber has adapted and evolved to better meet the needs of its membership and the community at large. Today, as an independent, not-for-profit 501(c)6 organization, the Chamber represents over 330 businesses and their 8,000+ employees from across the region. Our network of businesses, community members, and community organizations work to develop a flourishing business community, thereby expanding the economy of Natchitoches Parish. The Chamber provides key programs and services to businesses and is an invaluable resource and a united voice for the business community. As our community and region continue to grow, our organization plays an increasingly pivotal role in developing and improving the economic vitality and business environment critical to the success of our parish. We are future-focused in our pursuit of a thriving region.


Mission

Champion Business. Connect Community. Cultivate Growth.

 

Vision

To become the fastest growing parish with the richest culture per square mile in North Louisiana, where all residents are equipped and inspired to build prosperity.


Guiding Principles

The 2022 Chamber Board of Directors, together with a Chamber consultant out of Austin, embarked on a journey to create a three-year strategic plan that would inform our decisions on programming, positions, and initiatives. Once finalized, the 2023 board then decided the Chamber needed an outward-facing set of guiding principles and position statements that would serve as a public testament to why we do what we do and why we encourage others to join us in our mission.


A Letter from the President

Natchitoches Chamber of Commerce Membership plaque beside large ribbon-cutting ceremonial scissors with a large red bow on topThank you for your interest in the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, the largest network of business and industry professionals, elected officials, and community leaders in Natchitoches Parish. The Chamber serves each member differently according to their individual needs. Through a variety of programming and technology, our goal is for you to find your place in our business climate, grow your business through advertising and networking opportunities, and impact your community through Chamber initiatives. As you consider your budget and strategic plan for growth, I would urge you to find the membership level that best suits your needs. I would be happy to discuss the many ways in which the Chamber can serve you.

In Good Business,
Laura Lyles
Chamber President & CEO


Signature Events

The Chamber gathers business professionals, dignitaries, and community leaders annually to honor and recognize the successes of our member businesses, organizations, and individuals. Not only is this event continually the largest annual business gathering in Natchitoches, but it also serves as the Chamber’s annual meeting.

Not your mama’s job fair, this workforce summit draws hundreds of k-12 students and traditional job seekers to learn about a multitude of career opportunities in the region, hear from keynote speakers on the soft skills needed to land and keep a job, and explore career paths in the top three industries by employment in Natchitoches Parish: manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality/tourism.

Young Professionals from across the state gather in historic downtown Natchitoches to strengthen their leadership skills and network with other like-minded individuals. Breakout speakers offer a variety of professional development topics geared toward today’s young professionals.

Each year, the Chamber hosts a State of the Union Address on a specific topic impacting the regional economy. Subject matter experts share data, accomplishments, challenges, and insights into the future of their field with local, regional, and state leaders and dignitaries.

A+ Coalition Community Partners work together to welcome new teachers to the Natchitoches Parish School Board each August with Natchitoches area information and goodies from participating partners. We know that if they feel welcomed, supported, and informed about community resources, they are more likely to thrive.

This nighttime race is a whole new way to experience the City of Lights! Prizes are awarded to winners in each age bracket as well as those with the most Christmas spirit. Don’t be surprised if you see Santa, Frosty, or the Grinch out for a jog! Proceeds from this event benefit the A+ Coalition.

Members gather annually for an evening of holiday cheer, upscale eats, and specialty drinks. This festive gathering is a great opportunity to network with the business community, celebrate another year together, and support the Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Our Staff

Laura Lyles Jpg

Laura Lyles

Chamber President

Email: Send Email

Phone: (318) 238-1942

Dustin Dauzat Jpg

Dustin Dauzat

Director of Development

Email: Send Email

Phone: (318) 238-1941

Morgan Green Jpg

Morgan Green

Communications Coordinator

Email: Send Email

Phone: (318) 238-1945

Brittany Mccoy Jpg

Brittany McCoy

Director of Economic & Community Development

Email: Send Email

Phone: (318) 238-1946

Marilyn Mullikin Jpg

Marilyn Mullikin

Office Administrator

Email: Send Email

Phone: (318) 352-5385

Board

David Clary Png

David Clary, Chair

Owner

Louisiana Lagniappe

Rebecca Blankenbaker Png

Rebecca Blankenbaker, Immediate Past Chair

Executive Director

Cane River National Heritage Area

Greg Handel Png

Greg Handel, Vice-Chair

Provost & VP for Academic Affairs

Northwestern State University

Emily Harrington Png

Emily Harrington, Treasurer

Senior Tax Director

Hines, Squyres & Associates

Joanna Washington Png

JoAnna Washington

VP, Branch Administrator & Loan Officer

City Bank & Trust Co.

Claire Prymus Png

Claire Prymus

President & Founder

Ben D. Johnson Educational Center

Brian Brock Png

Brian Brock

Plant Manager

Alliance Compressors

Al Holden Png

Al Holden

Health & Safety Director

Pilgrim's

Kathryn Beaudoin Png

Kathryn Beaudoin

Training Restaurant Leader

Raising Cane's

Aimee Levy Png

Aimee Levy

HR Director

Natchitoches Regional Medical Center

Laurie Morrow Jpeg

Laurie Morrow

Executive Director, Office of Economic Development, Innovation, and Outreach

Northwestern State University