MARKSVILLE, LA – The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana will host the fourth annual Louisiana Rural and Economic (LaRuE) Development Summit, taking place September 8–9, 2025, at Paragon Casino Resort. The summit, free and open to the public, will gather leaders in business, government, education, and community development to ignite rural innovation and growth.
This year’s program offers more than panels and keynotes – attendees will step into the Trading Post Exhibit Hall, featuring diverse vendors and resource booths, while the Wellness Roundup Health Fair, hosted by the Tunica-Biloxi Health Department and Rural Health Clinic, provides screenings, information, and interactive health and wellness resources.
Highlights include:
- Dynamic Panels & Speakers: Featuring a distinguished lineup of thought leaders and subject matter experts, including representatives from Governor Jeff Landry’s office, elected officials, industry innovators like Meta, and university leaders from ULL, LSUA, NSU, and Southern University.
- Expanded Exhibits & Vendors: Local businesses, non-profit organizations, and resource partners showcasing opportunities and services for rural communities.
- Health & Wellness Fair: A full-day experience dedicated to empowering individuals and families with tools for healthier living.
- LaRuE Women’s Night (Sept. 8): A high-energy evening featuring keynote speakers including Dr. Lisa Vosper, Senator Heather Cloud, and Deidre Deculus Robert. The night will also showcase the Hidden Gem Award, affirmations from local queens, and the community entertainment celebrating women who lead, inspire, and uplift.
“LaRuE is about empowering people where they are,” said Marshall Pierite, Chairman of the Tunica Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana. “Too often, rural communities are told they must leave home to find opportunity. We reject that narrative. This summit is about building capacity in our own backyards so our people can thrive where their roots are planted.”
This year’s sessions will explore key topics such as economic diversification; housing and infrastructure; disaster preparedness for rural communities; workforce development and education; mental health and resilience; next-generation leadership; agriculture and agribusiness; policy and governance; art, culture and tourism; and digital transformation.
LaRuE is open to all economic development professionals, including entrepreneurs, small business owners, government officials, chambers of commerce, academic leaders, investors, students, and members of the public interested in rural development.
To register, visit www.larue.la
