Lagcoe Executive Director Receives Emerging Leader Award

Mar 21, 2024

Fumy Rita, the Executive Director of Lagcoe, was honored with the prestigious Emerging Leader Award at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Women's Leadership Conference on March 21, 2024. Established in 2020, this award recognizes dedicated and accomplished leaders who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing women's equity within their community or organization. Rita's notable contributions over the past five years have exemplified her collaborative spirit, dedication, and inspirational leadership in advocating for gender equity. Her efforts have not only built collaborative relationships but also fostered the development of leadership skills among individuals in her community.

Joining Rita in this esteemed recognition were Sarah H. Berthelot, President and CEO of United Way Louisiana, who received the Rising Leader Award, and Dr. Melinda Oberleitner, former Dean of UL Lafayette College of Nursing, who was honored with the Sarah Brabant Trailblazer Award. These individuals have similarly demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities, serving as exemplary role models through their substantial contributions to advancing gender equity. The University of Louisiana at Lafayette Women's Leadership Conference continues to celebrate and acknowledge the remarkable achievements of professionals like Rita, Berthelot, and Oberleitner, who have made significant impacts through their dedication to community service, outreach, and volunteerism.