September 8, 2025
Jolie Williamson, Director of Children’s Programs and the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet, presented at the Solutions Summit on Truancy in Alexandria, hosted by the Louisiana Supreme Court, Department of Education, BESE Board, Children’s Cabinet, and Children’s Trust Fund. She highlighted the role of Children and Youth Planning Boards in supporting families and helping every child succeed.
What an amazing kickoff for the Fatherhood Engagement Task Force! Truly honored to serve on this important team.
Louisiana School Based Health Alliance Conference, Pineville, LA
May 1, 2025
Director of Children’s Programs and Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, Jolie V. Williamson, spoke at the LASBHA Conference in Pineville with Surgeon General Dr. Ralph Abraham, then joined LYFE Executive Director Dr. Amanda Shackelford and Regional Director Azar Kayal to visit B22 Fit in Dry Prong— a former Grant Parish school transformed into a community health and fitness hub.
Children's Cabinet, April 3, 2025
Moss Bluff Educator, Melissa Cormier Speaking on The Importance of Recess
LYFE Executive Director, Amanda Shackelford giving Public Comments regarding Louisiana Youth for Excellence
Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana Executive Director, Sherrard Crespo receiving the Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month Proclamation for the month of April 2025
Dr. Ernise Singleton speaking on the upcoming Solutions Summit on Truancy
The Children's Cabinet held an insightful meeting with meaningful discussions. Ursula Anderson, Executive Director of the Louisiana Children's Trust Fund, presented recommendations for the LCTF Grant Proposal. Melissa Cormier emphasized the importance of recess, while Dr. Anna Osland shared research on Whole Health Louisiana. Dr. Ernise Singleton, Assistant Superintendent of Career & College Readiness at the Louisiana Department of Education, provided updates on the Solutions Summit on Truancy. Jolie V. Williamson, Director of Children's Programs and Executive Director of the Children's Cabinet, presented the Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana Proclamation to Sherrard Crespo, officially recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, and the Louisiana Youth Outdoor Engagement Month Proclamation to Melissa Cormier. Thank you to everyone who contributed to these important discussions.
Jolie V. Williamson, Director of Children's Programs and Executive Director of the Children's Cabinet had the incredible opportunity to celebrate Louisiana’s rich heritage with an inspiring group of 4th grade students from the St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic School for their annual Louisiana Heritage Day! Each student received a personal letter from Governor Landry, and the entire class was presented with a Certificate of Recognition signed by the Governor.
We had meaningful conversations about what it means to be a Louisianian, why I am proud to serve, and how young people can play a vital role in keeping our Louisiana heritage alive.From traditional food and music to passionate guest speakers and even a second line, it was a day filled with the spirit and soul of Louisiana.
We had a great time at the LCTF grantee, Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Acadiana Easter Party! It was a joyful celebration for all families and matches, hosted by the Children's Museum of Acadiana. Children, families, and their mentors cametogether to enjoy an Easter egg hunt, creative playtime, slime-making, and a fun nacho snack. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make this special day full of memories and laughter.
Governor Jeff Landry officially proclaimed the week of February 9-15 as National FBLA Week in the State of Louisiana. High school students from various schools across the state, including Lafayette, Ruston,Opelousas, Westlake, and Winnfield, gathered at the State Capitol on Friday to receive their proclamation. The event was hosted by Children’s Programs Director, Jolie V. Williamson, and celebrated the accomplishments of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students.
Jolie V. Williamson, Director of Children’s Programs and Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, had the honor of delivering the welcoming speech at the 18th annual Hopefest Music Festival in Youngsville, LA, on Saturday. This year, Hopefest is supporting two local organizations—The Healing House and the STM Options Program—continuing its legacy of raising nearly $2 million for various causes.
On Friday, the Director of Children’s Programs and Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, Jolie Williamson, along with LYFE Program Manager Rachael Dorman, visited Riveroaks Elementary School to introduce a second-grade class to Louisiana state government and the importance of citizenship. This visit provided a valuable opportunity to familiarize young students with how their state operates and their role as engaged citizens in their community.
On Friday, Director of Children’s Programs and Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, Jolie V. Williamson, had the privilege of visiting Walker Junior High School’s self-contained 6th-8th grade students. The students are learning about the three branches of government and what it means to be an upstanding citizen in the community. A special thank you to all the students and Ms. Laura Hensley for inviting us into the classroom. It was an inspiring experience!
Last week, Jolie V. Williamson, Director of Children’s Programs and Executive Director of the Children’s Cabinet, met with Salvation Army Lafayette Captain, Bruce Williams and Board member Dr. Kurt Schmersahl to discuss the many ways the Salvation Army supports children and families in our community and across the state. Their efforts are vital in addressing the needs of families and providing essential resources to ensure the well-being of children in our region.
St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic School
Louisiana Heritage Day
LOUISIANA YOUTH OUTDOOR ENGAGEMENT MONTH- APRIL 2025
PRESENTED TO EDUCATOR, MELISSA CORMIER
GLOBAL DAY TO END CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
PRESENTED BY -LOUISIANA YOUTH FOR EXCELLENCE (LYFE) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR,
AMANDA SHACKELFORD
CROSS-AGENCY SUPPORT FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
PRESENTED BY DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN'S PROGRAMS AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE LOUISIANA CHILDREN'S CABINET,
JOLIE V. WILLIAMSON
September 9, 2025: Pediatric Cancer Awareness Day
AUGUST 2025 is #PUTTHEPHONEDOWNMONTH