Director of External Affairs and Government Relations • Louisiana Department of Health
Bethany Blackson’s career has moved from protecting children in court to helping shape the healthcare policies that affect families across Louisiana.
As an assistant district attorney in Calcasieu Parish, she prosecuted child abuse, human trafficking and sexual assault cases. Later, as a staff attorney for the Louisiana House Committee on Health and Welfare, she drafted healthcare legislation and helped lawmakers navigate policy questions.
Today, she directs external affairs and government relations for the Louisiana Department of Health, connecting the agency with legislators, healthcare providers, stakeholders and government partners. Her rise also included serving as chief of staff to both the department’s secretary and surgeon general, coordinating policy, operations and communications.
That responsibility remains grounded in individual needs: helping a family find care or connecting someone with a resource they did not know existed.
Blackson carries her service into board roles with MetroMorphosis and PowerPump Girls. Through the Junior League, she also volunteered monthly at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. Her measure of influence is whether someone’s daily life became easier because she was there.
The best business advice I’d share: “Your word is your bond—make sure it means something. Your reputation and your relationships are two of the most valuable things you will build throughout your career. If you tell someone you are going to do something, do it. If you make a commitment, honor it. And if circumstances change and you cannot deliver, communicate that honestly.”
A quirky talent: “I randomly make up jingles.”
