Lafayette, LA – One Acadiana (1A) announced the 2026 Membership Event, a dynamic three-day effort to connect local businesses to the resources and opportunities available through 1A membership. Taking place May 5–7, 2026, One Acadiana is hosting the Membership Event in partnership with Your Chamber Connection, a nationally recognized firm known for specializing in innovative and high-impact engagement strategies for chambers of commerce.
One Acadiana’s 2026 Membership Event represents a significant moment for the organization as it continues to build a more connected, informed, and engaged business community. This effort will convene business leaders and community advocates, employing a team-based approach in a high-energy, collaborative environment. Volunteers will “race the clock” to connect with businesses owners, share the value of chamber involvement across all sectors, and encourage membership with One Acadiana.
“If you’re doing business in Acadiana, you should be plugged in to the resources and opportunities available to support your success. The 2026 Membership Event is about making that connection,” said One Acadiana President & CEO Troy Wayman. “When our business community is aligned and engaged, we’re more competitive, more resilient, and better positioned for long-term growth. This effort is focused on bringing more voices to the table and strengthening the impact we’re making across Acadiana.”
A cornerstone of the 2026 Membership Event is the engagement of volunteer leadership. One Acadiana has assembled a delegation of eight teams to lead outreach efforts during the three-day initiative. These teams are chaired by the following business and community leaders:
- Landon Boudreaux, SLEMCO
- Brad Gaubert, Keaty Real Estate
- Maurisha LeJeune, Ameriprise Financial
- John Nugent, BeLocal Acadiana
- Kayla Patel, Louisiana Works
- Mary Pham, Acadian Ambulance
- Jaci Russo, BrandRUSSO
- Co-Chairs: Corey Jack, Jack & Associates and Diogo Tavares, Northwestern Mutual
Under the guidance of Your Chamber Connection, participants will receive training and tools to effectively communicate One Acadiana’s impact—from supporting business growth and talent development to advocating for policies that strengthen the regional economy.
Throughout the event, volunteers will share key benefits of membership, including:
- Increased business visibility through a variety of marketing opportunities
- Strengthened community engagement through business celebrations, committees, and 1A’s Ambassador Program
- Meaningful networking and relationship-building opportunities with year-round events
- Helpful business resources, complimentary meeting space, expert knowledge, and more
“The Chamber of Commerce is the business community. This brings everyone together to build the Chamber,” said Your Chamber Connection President Jimmy Cusano. “When others hear about everything the Chamber does, all of a sudden you have a great deal of enthusiasm and a great deal of support.”
One Acadiana’s 2026 Membership Event will serve as a catalyst for deeper engagement across the business community, reinforcing the organization’s mission to make Acadiana the best place possible for business and talent.
Businesses interested in learning more or becoming a member of One Acadiana are encouraged to visit www.OneAcadiana.org.
About One Acadiana
One Acadiana is the chamber of commerce for Lafayette and leading economic development organization for the nine-parish Acadiana region located in south Louisiana. The organization holds both an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) accreditation and a five-star U.S. Chamber of Commerce accreditation. With more than 700 members, One Acadiana serves as the voice of the regional business community. The organization is located in the city of Lafayette and serves a region of nearly 700,000 people with a vibrant culture and unique entrepreneurial spirit. Learn more at OneAcadiana.org.