Event Emcee

2025 Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit - Emcee

Igniting a spirit of collaboration, innovation, and purpose—bringing together leaders, dreamers, and doers to build a stronger rural Louisiana.

Capturing the Moments

Workshop Highlights

Orhan Mc Millan emceeing the 2025 Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit
Orhan Mc Millan emceeing the 2025 Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit
Orhan Mc Millan emceeing the 2025 Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit
Orhan Mc Millan emceeing the 2025 Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit

Summit Overview

The Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit (LaRUE), held September 8-9, 2025,  brought together business owners, community leaders, policymakers, and educators to spark collaboration and innovation across rural Louisiana. Hosted by the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana and the Southern University Law Center, the two-day event focused on key issues such as workforce development, infrastructure, broadband access, healthcare, and funding opportunities.

Held at the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville, the Summit featured engaging keynotes, panel discussions, and networking designed to connect rural communities with the resources, partners, and ideas needed to strengthen local economies. More than a conference, it served as a catalyst for empowerment, resilience, and sustainable growth throughout rural Louisiana.

I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as emcee for this year’s Summit and to work alongside such passionate organizers and vision-driven leaders. The focus and purpose of LaRUE truly resonated with me—celebrating the strength, innovation, and collaboration that define rural Louisiana. It was an honor to help amplify those voices, connect those stories, and witness the momentum that continues to move our communities forward.

My Focus

  • Bridging Energy and Purpose
    I was able to set the tone for the summit by creating a warm, engaging atmosphere that connected leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members around a shared purpose of rural growth and innovation.

  • Unifying the Message
    Throughout the event, I was able to weave a common thread between sessions—highlighting how collaboration, creativity, and resilience are essential to strengthening rural Louisiana.

  • Highlighting Local Voices
    I made it a priority to elevate the stories of rural success and perseverance, ensuring that voices from small towns, tribal communities, and entrepreneurs were celebrated and heard.

  • Keeping the Momentum
    I kept the energy high and transitions smooth, blending humor, insight, and gratitude to keep participants inspired and connected from start to finish.

  • Championing the Future
    I reminded attendees that rural Louisiana’s strength lies in its people—and that innovation, partnership, and shared vision are the sparks that will drive its future growth.

Event Sponsors

My Skills

Storytelling & Inspiration

Turning information into connection; adding meaning between sessions.

Professionalism & Reliability

Arriving prepared, managing timing, and representing the event’s values with integrity.

Collaboration with Organizers

Working with the production and planning team to ensure flow, timing, and alignment.

Audience Connection

Reading the room, keeping energy high, and engaging with authenticity (humor, empathy, and storytelling).

What People Said About The Event

Ashley Love - Tunica Biloxi Tribe - Summit Coordinator

Thank you so very much. I truly appreciate all you did and I have heard many amazing things about you as emcee and your keynote.

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Elevate Your Next Event

If you’re looking for an emcee who can bring energy, connection, and purpose to your event, let’s create something unforgettable together. Contact me today to find out more!