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2026 Build Your Skills: ALICE
Date and Time
Thursday Jun 11, 2026
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT11:30am to 12pm | Registration and Lunch
12pm to 1pm | ProgramFees/Admission
$15 for Members
$25 for Non-MembersLight lunch included.
Pre-registration is required. Registration closes at 5pm the day before the event.
All registrations are final; no refunds will be issued.Contact Information
Alexis Walker, Membership and Events Manager
Send Email
Description
PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
In Partnership With:
In collaboration with the United Way New Orleans East Prosperity Center, we’re bringing together leaders from the Gulf South LGBTQ+ Chamber, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana, and the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber for an important conversation centered on ALICE, Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, and how this growing population impacts our businesses and communities.ALICE represents hardworking individuals and families who are employed yet still struggle to afford basic necessities. During this panel discussion, we will explore how ALICE households shape our local workforce, consumer base, and overall economic stability, along with what business leaders can do to better support and engage this vital segment of our community.
This collaborative event is designed to spark meaningful dialogue, share real world insight, and highlight practical strategies that strengthen economic mobility across our region. Join us to deepen your understanding, connect with fellow leaders, and be part of building a stronger, more resilient business community.
Speakers:
Edward Smith
Chairman of the Board of Directors
New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce
Edward B. “Coulon” Smith, born in New Orleans and raised in Angie, Louisiana, blends rural and city roots. A proud graduate of Varnado High and Southern University, he holds degrees in Law Enforcement, Sociology, and Social Science, along with an honorary doctorate in Humanities. He served 18 years with Baton Rouge’s Department of Juvenile Services before joining New Orleans Job Corps and currently works with HANO. A dedicated member of Omega Psi Phi since 1999, he also proudly serves in the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club as the 2022 Witch Doctor. In addition, he holds leadership roles on several boards including the New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce (current Chairman), the Urban League of New Orleans, and the Sewerage & Water Board Selection Committee. Mr. Smith credits his mother’s love and God’s grace for his success and lives by the motto that every dream starts in the heart.
Daniel Ardito
Board President
Gulf South LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of CommerceDaniel Ardito is a clinical and operations professional with a background as a Behavior Interventionist in adolescent healthcare and early learning. He is known for building and implementing structure, improving data driven systems, and creating lasting results.
He serves as the 2026 President of the New Orleans LGBTQ+ & Allied Chamber of Commerce, where he focuses on strengthening diverse connections and supporting a more inclusive business community across the region.
Michelle Aguirre
Chairwoman
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana Foundation
Michelle Aguirre is the Director of Prevention and Education Services for La Voz de la Comunidad Coalition and a recognized community leader dedicated to advancing health, education, and economic opportunity throughout Louisiana. She serves as Chair of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Louisiana Foundation, Chair of Child Evangelism Fellowship Louisiana, and Chair of ECCO Community Center. She is also a Board Member of Seeds of NOLA and the Ready Start Network. Michelle's expertise includes community engagement, coalition building, nonprofit leadership, trauma-informed community development, and culturally responsive outreach. Through her work, she helps connect organizations, families, and communities to resources that create lasting impact and opportunity.
Photography provided by:
Chamber events are professionally photographed for our marketing purposes. By attending, you agree to being photographed and that these images may be used in print and digital marketing for the New Orleans Chamber of commerce.
