Ms. Paula Jordan (Pennington Biomedical Research Center), plays an important role as Program Manager in the LA CaTS Center’s Community Engagement & Outreach Core. Specifically, she leads the new Community Research for Optimal Wellness Network (CROWN) Program. Ms. Jordan works to expand partnerships and strengthen connections between researchers, healthcare organizations, and communities throughout Louisiana. CROWN is intended to create meaningful opportunities for involvement that supports community-engaged research which can lead to improvements in health outcomes across the state.
One of the highlights of this period was a CROWN Kick-off Event held in Lafayette at the Southwest Louisiana Area Health Education Center (SWLAHEC). The event introduced CROWN to community-based organizations, such as the Southwest Louisiana Area Health Education Center (SWLAHEC) & Well Ahead, LDH Region 4 Office of Public Health, SMILE Community Action Agency, Louisiana Healthcare Connections and Project HOPE. Participants gained a deeper understanding of CROWN's mission and its role in advancing meaningful community engagement.
The event also provided an opportunity for attendees to share ideas and discuss how their organizations could play a part in CROWN. Through open dialogue and relationship-building, community partners identified ways to support research initiatives, enhance outreach efforts, and address health priorities affecting local populations. The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by attendees reflected the growing interest in fostering stronger connections between research institutions and the communities they serve.
Another significant engagement opportunity took place at Xavier University in New Orleans during an event hosted by Dr. Lakeisha Williams, LA CaTS Community Engagement and Outreach (CEO) Core Director. During the program, Dr. Williams provided education to community-based organizations and community members on the principles and importance of community-engaged research, emphasizing the value of involving community stakeholders throughout the research process. Ms. Jordan followed Dr. Williams with a presentation on CROWN, highlighting its role as a vital bridge between researchers and the community. Together, these presentations reinforced the importance of community partnerships in advancing equitable and impactful research.
In addition to her work with the LA CaTS Center, Ms. Jordan remains a dedicated advocate for children and families through her leadership roles with Save the Children, the Louisiana Head Start Association (LHSA), and the Region VI Head Start Association. As a Friends Affiliate on the LHSA Board, she recently participated in the organization's Annual Conference and continues to contribute to policy, advocacy, and early childhood education initiatives at the state, regional, and national levels. Her commitment to service extends into her community, where she was recently honored with three faith-based awards recognizing her outstanding dedication, servant leadership, and lasting impact through faith, service, and community engagement.
Whether introducing CROWN to new community partners, educating stakeholders about the importance of community-engaged research, advocating for children and families, or serving through her faith community, Ms. Paula Jordan exemplifies the power of leadership through collaboration and service. Her work continues to strengthen partnerships, elevate community voices, and advance opportunities for healthier, stronger communities throughout Louisiana and beyond.