The Young Professionals Initiative’s 2023 Top 40 Under Forty honorees were presented at a Dec. 1 gala celebrating their achievements. Held at Sam’s Town Hotel and Casino ballroom, more than 500 guests turned out in their snazziest attire for the event. Thomas Pressly Jr., a former Louisiana state representative who just won the Louisiana State Senate election, was recognized with the top award. Partnering with the YPI and the Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce are presenting sponsors 318 Forum and Lee Michael’s Fine Jewelry.

Photos by Jeremy Hernandez

Barbara, Ivy and Curtis Joseph

Tony, Tara and Krysta Cyr

Chris and Lynn Henry, Ashley and Josh Henry

R.J. Johnson and Kristin Johnson

Caroline and Bratton Frierson

Casey Craig and Leo Tripp

Claire Childs YPI of the Year 2022

Krystal Critton

Wanda Gertin

Thomas Pressley 2023 Young Professional of the Year

Brittany Willis and Darrell Williams

Shawn and Laura McNeil and Hanna Frey

Sierra Pollock and Pierce Durov

Ray Holbrook and R.J. Johnson

Megan and Mario Chavez

Mary and Matt Oates

Robert and Jessica Vowles

John and Lorianna Taylor

Liz and Owen Buhler

Paige Melton and Tori Thomas

Megan Hearns, Krystal Critton, Dominique Hankins

Ann Shocklee, Susan Johnston, Erin, Marshall and Jim Johnston

Joshua and Biskie Duncan

Craig Johnson and Brittainy Pope, Tomika Hayden and Victor Thomas

Sarah Lytle, Carily Jacobson and Julia Henry

Marshall and Erin Johnston

Gloria and Anthony Mata

Christena Francis

Tamika Hayden

Jeremy Burge and Joseph Moore

Adam and Sarah Little

Jana Forrest, Meredith Johnson, Emerie Eck Holtzclaw, Michelle Marcotte, Katie Bursley, Claire Childs, and Katrina Sproles

Ross and Jodi Hutto

Brittainy Pope

Von Jennings