PINEVILLE, La.  – Today, in Pineville, Cleco welcomed Gov. John Bel Edwards as the keynote speaker for a leadership luncheon sponsored by the company and attended by its employees, LSUA’s Continuing Education Leadership Central Louisiana class and elected officials.  

The meeting opened with Robbie LaBorde, Cleco vice president of generation operations and environmental services, welcoming Gov. Edwards.  After opening remarks, the Governor opened the discussion to a question and answer session from the more than 100 attendees.  

“Cleco is happy to welcome Gov. Edwards to Pineville and appreciates the time he gives to listening to and answering questions from businesses and constituents,” said Bill Fontenot, Cleco president and CEO.  “He has proven to be an accessible public official who genuinely cares about the people and the progress of Louisiana.”

LSUA Continuing Education offers the Leadership Central Louisiana program annually, hosting business leaders and community volunteers.  The eight-month program, which meets once a month, provides leadership education topics and community resource awareness presentations and tours.

“It’s a privilege to be part of a strong, local group of leaders represented in LSUA’s Leadership Central Louisiana program,” said Abby Blocker, vice president of campaign and marketing for United Way of Central Louisiana and participant in LSUA’s Leadership Central Louisiana program.  “I am thankful to LSUA for hosting this leadership program and to Cleco for supporting the program and bringing one of the most influential leaders in the state to central Louisiana.” 

For photos of the event and to learn about other Cleco-sponsored events, follow Cleco on social media at Facebook.com/ClecoPower and LinkedIn.com/company/Cleco.