TEDxMarksville Women

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Connie Cooper

  Connie Cooper leads civil rights compliance at LSUA, shaping policies that foster equity and accountability. A seasoned advisor and advocate, she supports students and staff, investigates discrimination, and drives cultural change. Honored for her leadership, she empowers women and communities while mentoring the next generation with passion and purpose.

• Denise Alley

  Denise Alley, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and proud descendant of Tecumseh, is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer, performer, and author. With 33+ years of experience, she inspires through cultural wisdom, powerful storytelling, and heartfelt messages of clarity, love, and healing that transcend cultures. Learn more at www.denisealley.com.

• Donna Desoto

  Donna Desoto is a retired Juvenile Probation Supervisor with 38 years of service and former Director of Teen Court of Avoyelles. Now Executive Director of the Avoyelles Community & Youth Coalition, she empowers youth through prevention, leadership, and education. Donna also serves on multiple local boards supporting community well-being.

• Erika Love

  Erika is a dynamic force of creativity, compassion, and community impact. As a dedicated public servant with the U.S. Forest Service, a passionate youth mentor, published author, and visionary artist, she wears many hats with grace and purpose. She’s also the proud founder of For the Love of Alexandria—a vibrant local business that blends a paint party studio, boutique, and selfie space into one unforgettable experience. At the heart of everything Erika does is a mission: to be a beacon of light in a world that often feels dim. Through her art, mentorship, and entrepreneurial spirit, she uplifts others and creates spaces where joy, healing, and self-expression thrive.

• Felicia McGill

  Felicia McGill, a PhD student in School Psychology at LSU, researches autism and founded Respect the Spectrum to promote acceptance. A Goldwater Scholar and STEM advocate, she has spoken statewide, conducted neuroscience research, and placed Top 5 in the 2024 and 2025 Miss Louisiana pageants. She is the current Miss Avoyelles Arts & Music Festival.

• Melissa Bowen

  Melissa Bowen, LPC, Supervisor, and Coach, helps individuals live authentically through connection and courage. A Certified Daring Way Facilitator trained in Brené Brown’s research, she leads The Authenticity Center in Lafayette, mentors leaders, and collaborates with nonprofits. Her work inspires audiences to embrace their strengths for a fulfilling life.

• Melissa Le

  Melissa Le, Miss Louisiana’s Teen 2024 and founder of STEM to Bloom, advocates for equal access to STEM education. A Top 11 national finalist and talent winner at Miss America’s Teen, she’s also a champion pianist and youth STEM leader, inspiring others through service, scholarship, and her passion for science.

• Michelle Purl

  Michelle Purl, CEO of United Way of Central Louisiana, has over 35 years of nonprofit leadership advancing working families’ well-being. A Florida State University graduate, she has championed early childhood development, community resilience, and inclusive solutions. A TEDx speaker, Michelle is recognized for promoting the “Business of Charity” nationwide.

• Missy Daniel

  Missy Daniel, a licensed clinical mental health therapist from Avoyelles Parish, is passionate about helping others heal—especially survivors of domestic abuse. Formerly with Faith House and Family Justice Center, she now runs a private practice in Pineville. Missy finds joy in faith, nature, family, and transforming thoughts into healing action.

• Pamela Pippin

  A Senior Certified HR Professional with global experience, she’s led HR for a startup abroad and consulted for a former NFL player. Passionate about energizing teams, she creates tools to boost unity and productivity. She volunteers with nonprofits and serves on HR boards, guided by her faith, family, and purpose.

• Roselyn Perez Casiano

  Roselyn Perez Casiano is a therapist, success mentor, and self-awareness expert. With over 15 years of experience in behavioral health and trauma recovery, she now helps high-achieving women stop performing success and start living it through emotional mastery, nervous system healing, and identity transformation. Roselyn is the founder of Insightful Essence, a coaching and consulting practice featured in Forbes, and she speaks nationally on the intersection of leadership, healing, and holistic wellness.

• Shanell Pharr-Williams

  Shanell Pharr-Williams is a transformational leader and former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant with 30+ years in the utilities industry. Known for leading under pressure and inspiring results, she’s a two-time Tom Voss Presidential Award winner and recognized among the Top African American Women in Leadership and 40 Leaders Under 40.