Baton Rouge Chapter of The Links honors seven role models at 18th annual jazz brunch

The Baton Rouge Chapter of The Links held its 18th annual New Orleans-style jazz brunch in December at the Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel, honoring seven Louisiana Role Models and drawing close to 500 attendees.

The Baton Rouge Chapter of The Links, Incorporated held its 18th annual New Orleans-style jazz brunch in December at the Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel. The event was the chapter's signature fundraising occasion and drew close to 500 attendees. The brunch highlighted the accomplishments of Louisiana servant leaders who have made positive and lasting impacts at local, state and national levels. Each honoree was presented as an example of the chapter's mission across the organization's five facets of service. Key details: - The 2025 honorees were the Rev. Thomas F. Clark, Andre Harmon, J. Renea Austin-Duffin, Regina Davis, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Edward "Ed" Barnes Sr., and Tahj "Queen Tahj" Williams. - Chapter President Cheryl Hall-DeRouen welcomed guests and Erin Monroe served as emcee. - The chapter recognized its Dr. Julia Brogdon Purnell Scholars and STEM Book Scholars during the celebration, and included a silent auction to support programming. - The Michael Foster Project provided musical entertainment, and members concluded the brunch with a traditional second line around the ballroom. - Shelia Sterling served as event chair, supported by a committee of chapter members listed in the release. - The event was made possible through presenting sponsor ExxonMobil, with additional support from Impact, Premier, Corporate and Diamond Circle sponsors. Summary: Proceeds from the brunch supported the chapter's transformational programming and the event honored leaders who reflect the group's long history of service. Undetermined at this time.