The Shreveport-Bossier area is full of people working toward making our community a better place. Some do it through business ventures and work that furthers the area’s economic development. Others inspire and create, making our cities more beautiful, cultural and fun destinations. Still, others work to simply make our community better by being leaders and activists.
The Shreveport Times annual “People to Watch” lists were created in 2021 as an effort to highlight just a few of those individuals who strive all year to make Shreveport-Bossier a better place while looking toward the future.
This year’s nominees are a shining example of the best of our community.
The Shreveport-Bossier City skyline at night.
Here are the nominees for The Shreveport Times People to Watch 2025:
Community Leaders
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Waynette Ballangee: Founder of Ballengee Foundation
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K.C. Kilpatrick: Founder of Geaux 4 Kids, Inc.
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Keith Burton: Caddo Parish Schools Superintendent
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Corey Craft & Mark Harrison: Founders of Turkey Fry Guys
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Lance & Vernae Thompson: Founders of Dream Big Interactive Initiative
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Mary Grams: Head of School, Praise Academy at Lakeside
Business Leaders
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Emerie Gentry: Owner of Lagniappe P.R.I.M.E., LLC.
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Kynnedi Chevelier: Owner of First Class Dance Academy
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Kevin Preston: Owner of Louisiana Downs
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Casey Jones: Marketing Director at The Arc Caddo-Bossier
Arts and Entertainment Leaders
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Wade Marshall: Shreveport-Bossier Film & Entertainment Commission
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Rodrigo Mondragon: Owner/chef of Ki’ Mexico
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Blake Jackson: Owner/chef of Mae & Co. and Heron
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Kip Cummings: Founder/board president Surfari Pals
Winners will be announced starting Dec. 30 online and featured in the Dec. 31 print edition.
More: Shreveport Times announces 2024 People to Watch nominees
Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Meet the Shreveport Times 2025 People to Watch nominees