Natchitoches, Louisiana is a town of just under 19,000 and parish seat to Natchitoches Parish, population 39,000; Natchitoches is home to Northwestern State University. NSU is a regional, public, four-year institution of higher learning that has attracted students to Natchitoches since 1884. Natchitoches is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, having been established 1714; it is also the home of the Cane River National Heritage Area (one of two such Heritage areas in the state), a 33-block Landmark Historic District, the inspiration for—and filming location of—Steel Magnolias, and has hosted the annual Christmas Festival each year for the past 90 years. In addition, Natchitoches has a strong backbone of industry, healthcare, and education; with tourism and retail providing strong employment as well.
Our Chamber, founded in 1919, is looking for its next President. Our outgoing President has served for seven years, following a president that served for 15 years; we value strong leadership and encourage progressive action. Members constitute a diverse representation from across the parish and the Chamber enjoys a positive reputation as a professional organization.
