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More than 100 business, nonprofit, government, medical, and educational leaders from across Louisiana gathered on Aug. 21 at Celtic Studios for Carnival of Change, a first-of-its-kind immersive learning event on artificial intelligence.
Step right up! The Carnival of Change delivered an unforgettable, high-energy experience that sparked ideas, fueled innovation, and empowered participants to thrive in the age of AI. More than just an event, it became a movement for forward-thinkers determined to stay ahead, adapt quickly, and embrace the opportunities technology brings.
Attendees immersed themselves in interactive knowledge hubs, where experts led engaging, hands-on sessions, while live demos and AI showcases brought cutting-edge tools to life, showing how they could transform everyday work. The energy continued with meaningful networking opportunities, connecting innovators, creators, and change-makers eager to collaborate.
And true to its name, the Carnival brought the fun—complete with vibrant carnival vibes, games, activities, and surprise moments that made learning as exciting as it was impactful.
Hosted by DisruptREADY, the Carnival of Change was designed as a proof-of-concept experience, offering participants the opportunity to engage hands-on with AI concepts through interactive stations. Sessions such as What the Heck is This, Prompt Like a Pro, Never the Same Again, AI in the Clear, Chat with Your Data, and Mindset Modeling guided participants through the degrees of difficulty in understanding and applying AI in their fields.
The event featured a diverse team of presenters and facilitators, including:
- Lacy Dicharry, Director of LSU’s Leadership Development Institute
- David Day, Marketing Strategist
- Emilia Henry and Ashlyn Cole, senior executive leaders with expertise in data management, legal frameworks, and human resources
- John Foval, Founder & CEO of Nurik.AI, who brought cutting-edge insights in AI applications and data integration
- Cody Flurry, an emerging thought leader in AI-driven process innovation
- Daniel Arbour, a specialist in aligning AI strategies with organizational culture and capacity
- Dr. Beverly Brooks Thompson, Managing Director, Carter Global
Henry Hays, co-Founder and CEO of DisruptREADY, served as the event’s Ringmaster and keynote speaker, guiding participants through a compelling vision of how AI will reshuffle industries. A seasoned entrepreneur and strategist, Hays built his career at the crossroads of technology and innovation—scaling pharmaceutical ventures and advising global organizations. Through DisruptREADY, he now equips leaders with the mindset and tools to adopt AI both responsibly and strategically.
Quotes from the event
“Carnival of Change was about making AI approachable, actionable, and fun. We believe that leaders who engage with this technology today will shape the competitive landscape of tomorrow. This was just the beginning—our national, paid events launch in September, and Louisiana was the perfect place to debut our vision.”
— Henry Hays, CEO & Founder, DisruptREADY
“The Carnival gave me real-world insight into how AI can be applied in my organization and daily life. It wasn’t just theory – it was hands-on, engaging, and energizing. I left with practical tools and the confidence to start using AI immediately.”
— Dr. Sara Landreneau Kleinpeter, Leadership Baton Rouge Alumni Board Chair
“The DisruptReady AI Carnival of Change created one of the best environments for AI veterans and novices to come together and develop the skills needed to keep up with the most exciting and constantly evolving tech advancements in history. It had something for everyone at every level of experience with AI.”
-Danny Fields, CFRE, Chief Development Officer of Cremmjoy Inc and President & CEO of Daniel J. Fields Consulting
“Artificial intelligence is not just about technology—it’s about leadership. Leaders must be willing to embrace change, guide their teams with vision, and ensure that AI is used ethically and strategically to strengthen organizations and communities. Carnival of Change is a powerful step in preparing leaders for that responsibility.”
— Lacy Dicharry, Director, LSU Leadership Development Institute
