Shaping Futures in St. John the Baptist Parish
On October 11, 2023, St. John the Baptist Parish High Schools participated in the second annual College & Career Fair, a transformative event that promises to guide the youth of the parish toward brighter and more prosperous futures. Organized in partnership between Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans (JA), Kiwanis Tri-Parishes, and the St. John the Baptist Parish School District, this event was a resounding success, connecting high school students with a wide array of opportunities and pathways for their post-secondary education and careers.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated donors who made this event possible. Their generous support was instrumental in bringing together the students, exhibitors, and professionals who made the fair an outstanding success. Special thanks to 321 Events, LLC., St. John Parish Sheriff, Taylor McDowell, Frisard Companies, St. John the Baptist Parish Councilwoman District 6, Tonia Schnyder, and ZoraChristina Catering for their invaluable contributions.
The second annual College & Career Fair was an inclusive affair, welcoming junior and senior students from West St. John High School, St. John STEM Magnet High School, East St. John High School, and Gateway. This event transcended barriers, ensuring that all students, regardless of their specific educational needs, had access to valuable insights about their future.
The fair also featured a diverse array of exhibitors, including universities, colleges, and trade training programs from across the region. However, it wasn't just higher education institutions present; local parish services also made their mark, with representatives from Acadian Ambulance Service, St. John Parish Sheriff's Office, Department of Community Services, District Attorney's Office, Fire Department, Families in Need of Services, and other Parish government officials eager to engage with students and share their experiences.
In addition to these services, a wide range of companies and professional organizations representing Health Sciences, Digital Media/IT, Skilled Crafts & Manufacturing, and Business Services showcased their opportunities. These pathways were carefully selected to expose students to a variety of occupations that are widely represented throughout Southeast Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
The overarching goal of the College & Career Fair was to build a link between youth and the vast opportunities for high-wage jobs in high-growth industries. The fair provided a unique platform for students to explore these pathways, understand the requirements, and discover potential career opportunities in fields that hold the promise of a prosperous future.
The second annual College & Career Fair was a resounding success, empowering the youth of St. John the Baptist Parish to make informed decisions about their futures. By connecting students with the educational and career resources available in the region, we are collectively working towards building a brighter, more prosperous future for our young people, and ultimately, for our community as a whole. This event is a testament to the power of collaboration and the unwavering commitment to the success of our youth.