In a historic moment for the Louisiana Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard of Hearing community, the second cohort of the Louisiana Deaf Leadership Development Program (LD2) concluded with an extraordinary closeout celebration on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the Louisiana State Capitol. This groundbreaking initiative, developed and led by Innivee Strategies in collaboration with the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf (LCD), has once again proven its transformative impact on emerging leaders and advocates.
A Capitol Celebration of Leadership Excellence
The September 12th closeout celebration was nothing short of inspiring. Our remarkable second cohort participants presented to an audience of changemakers, community members, and legislators at the prestigious Louisiana State Capitol, showcasing the powerful leadership skills they developed throughout their LD2 journey. The distinguished participants shared their leadership stories, detailed how the LD2 program benefited their personal and professional growth, and demonstrated their unwavering commitment to advocacy within their communities.
The day was filled with well-deserved recognition, meaningful awards, and invaluable connections with state leaders, including a special opportunity to meet with Senator Kleinpeter. The audience of state agency leaders, policymakers, and community members witnessed firsthand the comprehensive leadership competencies that each cohort member developed throughout the program.
A Six-Month Journey of Transformation
Over the course of six months, LD2’s second cohort embarked on an intensive journey of personal and professional growth. Participants dove deep into essential leadership topics including technical and adaptive leadership, empathy and emotional intelligence, creating shared vision, and building movements for change. Through hands-on workshops, thought-provoking discussions, and collaborative projects, each participant gained valuable insights into their unique leadership styles, strengths, and areas for growth.
LD2 is far more than a traditional leadership program—it serves as a comprehensive platform for self-discovery, learning, and empowerment. The curriculum fostered introspection and curiosity, ensuring that the lessons learned will continue to resonate and guide participants long after the program’s conclusion.
Building a Supportive Leadership Community
Central to LD2’s continued success was the strong sense of community and camaraderie fostered among the second cohort participants. United by their shared passion for advocacy and leadership, individuals from diverse backgrounds came together to support, challenge, and learn from one another. This collaborative environment created lasting bonds and a robust support network that extends far beyond the program’s duration.
Key Leadership Insights from Our Second Cohort
During their Capitol presentations, participants shared profound insights that demonstrate their leadership growth:
- Leadership transcends titles – True leadership means active engagement and the courage to challenge established norms when necessary
- Embracing vulnerability as strength – Authentic leadership requires embracing uncertainties and acknowledging our shared human experiences
- Lifelong learning mindset – Effective leadership isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about accepting that growth and learning never stop
- Community-centered advocacy – The most impactful leadership emerges from deep connection to and understanding of community needs
Commendations and Gratitude
We commend the exceptional courage, vision, and dedication demonstrated by our second cohort participants. Their preparation and articulation of their leadership roles within their communities showcased the transformative power of comprehensive leadership development. These emerging leaders are exceptionally well-positioned to drive meaningful, lasting change within Louisiana’s Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard of Hearing communities.
Our heartfelt gratitude extends to the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf, the Bureau of Family Health, state leaders like Senator Kleinpeter, and all the community partners who made this celebration possible. The Innivee Strategies team is incredibly proud of this cohort’s achievements and looks forward to their continued impact on Louisiana’s leadership landscape.
Elevate Leadership in Your Organization and Community
The LD2 Program continues to be a transformative experience that creates ripple effects throughout Louisiana’s communities. We invite organizations and communities to partner with us to foster inclusive, impactful leadership development initiatives tailored to your specific needs.
Learn more about Innivee Strategies’ comprehensive leadership development services at: https://inniveestrategies.com/leadership-development/
Discover the impact of our second cohort launch at: https://inniveestrategies.com/second-cohort-of-the-louisiana-deaf-leadership-program-ld2-launch/
Let’s work together to inspire and develop leaders who will drive positive, lasting change in our communities. The success of our second cohort demonstrates that when we invest in leadership development within the Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, and Hard of Hearing communities, we create powerful catalysts for systemic change and community advancement.
The Louisiana Deaf Leadership Development Program (LD2) represents a collaborative commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities through exceptional leadership development. Together, we’re not just developing leaders—we’re transforming communities and creating lasting positive impact.
