City Center Sessions: Women at the Center
Women at the Center is a special edition of our City Center Sessions thought leadership series to convene and spotlight women leaders who are shaping Lafayette’s economy, culture, and community.
Programming will feature an intimate, moderated conversation with Downtown leaders and business owners.
Jaci Russo, President of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA); Founder and Owner of brandRUSSO
Madeleine Groth, President of Downtown Lafayette Unlimited (DLU); Founder and Owner of Madeleine Groth, D.D.S.
Together, these women will explore both shared experiences - leadership, risk-taking, hiring and retaining talent, balancing ambition with personal life - and the differences that come with age, industry, and business models. The discussion will offer honest insight into what it means to lead as a woman today, how leadership evolves over time, and how women-owned businesses strengthen downtowns and local economies.
Thanks to our presenting sponsors Fidelity Bank and Fidelity POWER program.
Presenting Sponsor
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Diamond Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
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Beverage Sponsor
Backstage Sponsor
Cultural Champion
Gift Bag Sponsor
Event Hosts
Friends of the Fête
Women at the Center
Other Information
FROM THE AIRPORT
After leaving the Lafayette Regional Airport, drive towards University Avenue to head into Downtown Lafayette by way of Johnston and then Jefferson Street.
FROM I-10
Take Exit 101 onto North University Avenue and follow the signs to Downtown Lafayette.
FROM Interstate-49
Interstate 49 becomes the Evangeline Thruway as you enter Lafayette. Take a right off of Evangeline Thruway onto Jefferson Boulevard.
FROM Highway 90
Highway 90 becomes the Evangeline Thruway as you enter Lafayette. Take a left off of Evangeline Thruway onto Jefferson Boulevard.
STREET PARKING
Downtown Lafayette makes parking easy with the ParkMobile Parking App for metered street parking. All metered spaces are free after 5:00 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
PARKING GARAGE
The Parc-Auto du Centre-Ville Garage, located at 121 East Vermilion Street, offers 530 affordable parking spaces.
BIKE RACKS
Parking your bike is simpler than ever with 75 new bike racks recently installed by Lafayette City Government in Downtown and nearby areas.
1. Is Downtown Lafayette a safe area to visit?
Yes, Downtown Lafayette is a safe and welcoming area. We have a 24/7 police presence to ensure safety and peace of mind for all visitors, residents, and businesses. Strolling through our vibrant streets day or night, you’ll find a warm, inviting community atmosphere.
2. Is Downtown Lafayette walkable?
Absolutely! Downtown is designed to be a walkable district, making it easy to explore on foot. Our streets are pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to easily access local restaurants, shops, and attractions while taking in the unique character of the area.
3. Is Downtown Lafayette suitable for family trips or couples' getaways?
Downtown Lafayette offers something for everyone! Families will enjoy parks, museums, and family-friendly restaurants, while couples can indulge in cozy cafés, art galleries, and lively music venues. Whether you’re here for a family outing or a romantic weekend, Downtown Lafayette has experiences to make your visit memorable.
4. Is Downtown Lafayette Francophone-friendly?
Yes, Downtown Lafayette warmly welcomes Francophone visitors! You’ll find bilingual wayfinding signage throughout Downtown and the surrounding neighborhoods, and even some restaurants offer menus in French.