About the Program
One Acadiana’s Ambassador Program is One Acadiana’s most hands-on way to get involved. Ambassadors are energetic and passionate business and community leaders that are deeply connected to the pulse of the Lafayette and regional community. By participating in this program, you have the exclusive opportunity to champion and support businesses throughout the Acadiana region.
Being an Ambassador
By participating in events, making connections, and advocating for One Acadiana’s mission, you play a vital role in shaping the future of Lafayette.
- Be In-The-Know
Be among the first to receive direct invitations to ribbon cuttings, grand openings, and other exclusive events hosted by One Acadiana and our members. This means prime networking opportunities and a chance to celebrate business milestones alongside key players in the community. - Connect with Members
As an Ambassador, you have the unique opportunity to assist 1A’s Membership Team with recruitment and retention efforts. By reigniting member enthusiasm, encouraging renewals, and weaving One Acadiana’s value into your conversations, you spark curious minds to get involved. With introductions, guidance, and your own success story as proof, Ambassadors turn potential members into thriving ones! - Commit Your Time
Ambassadors are required to attend a one-hour monthly meeting, focused on organizational updates and upcoming opportunities to engage with the community, all while learning more about local businesses and One Acadiana’s line of work. Aside from monthly meetings, Ambassadors are strongly encouraged to attend ribbon cuttings, grand openings, groundbreaking ceremonies, or other business celebrations for the many active members of One Acadiana. Being present for a major milestone in the life of a business is a special opportunity and a rewarding aspect of being an Ambassador. Being present for a major milestone in the life of a business is a special opportunity and a rewarding aspect of being an Ambassador.
Who is a good fit for the Ambassador Program?
Community leaders and business professionals who are members of One Acadiana and are eager to get engaged with the Acadiana business community on a deeper level are a perfect fit for the Ambassador program. 1A Ambassadors are familiar with One Acadiana’s mission and core values, and through their role, serve as the heartbeat of our organization. Participants of the Ambassador program should also have flexibility within their schedules to attend monthly Friday morning meetings as well as have availability to support businesses throughout the region at ribbon cuttings, grand openings, and other business celebrations.
Application Process
At the end of each calendar year, One Acadiana will open applications to form the upcoming year of Ambassadors. Once open, applications can be found on this page.
Ambassadors will be selected based on the quality of their application and their previous involvement with One Acadiana. Applicants who are selected to participate in the upcoming year’s Ambassador Program will be announced before the start of the new calendar year.
Those selected will serve as a 1A Ambassador for the full calendar year and will be encouraged to re-apply for the next calendar year. Please note that there is no limit on how many consecutive or non-consecutive years individuals can serve as a 1A Ambassador. However, those interested in serving another year must re-apply at the end of each calendar year, and quality of application and participation with 1A will be re-evaluated.
To learn more about the Ambassador Program, eligibility requirements, and the application process, please see 1A’s Ambassador Handbook HERE.
I have been an active member and Ambassador of One Acadiana for over 25 years. Being an Ambassador has afforded me so many opportunities to be engaged in conversations, create lasting connections, and gain knowledge of the issues affecting our community. I am proud to be a member and Ambassador of One Acadiana – a great organization that is committed to making Acadiana the best in the South!
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN!
We are currently accepting applications to be a 2025 Ambassador! Applications must be completed by Friday, November 15. Those who have previously served as an Ambassador or are a current Ambassador are required to re-apply in order to be selected for participation as a 2025 Ambassador.
Contact
Chris Messner
Manager, Membership
Chris@OneAcadiana.org
337-408-3668
2023 Ambassador of the Year
John Nugent
Safehouse