Award celebrates everyday heroes who embody the spirit of “I ❤ Shreveport”
SHREVEPORT, La. – In a ceremony filled with joy and heartfelt admiration, Vickie Winn was honored Friday with the inaugural Heart of Shreveport Award at Holy Angels. Nominated by her colleagues at Heard, McElroy & Vestal (HMV) for her unwavering kindness, creativity, and quiet leadership, Winn received the award before an audience of friends, colleagues, Holy Angels residents, staff, and community leaders — including Mayor Tom Arceneaux.
Created in 2025, the Heart of Shreveport Award is a recognition program championed by the Greater Shreveport Chamber to celebrate individuals whose kindness, generosity, and leadership make the community more compassionate and connected. Inspired by Mayor Arceneaux’s “I ❤ Shreveport” initiative, the award recognizes those whose everyday actions transform Shreveport from simply a place to live into a place to love.
“The Heart of Shreveport Award is a true reflection of the spirit of our community, and I’m honored that it was born from the simple ‘I ❤ Shreveport’ buttons we shared to celebrate our city. Vicki Winn embodies that spirit and reminds us all of the strength and beauty that comes from caring for one another,” said Mayor Tom Arceneaux.
Winn is known for creating jewelry at Angel Works, lending her voice to the Holy Angels choir, and offering support to those around her. She also works two days a week at HMV, where her warmth and positivity have made a lasting impression.
“We are so pleased to recognize Vickie as someone whose joy, resilience, and compassion inspire everyone around her,” said Roy Prestwood, Managing Partner at Heard, McElroy & Vestal. “She has been part of our team for five years through Holy Angels’ Supported Employment program, and this award gives us an opportunity to show how much she means to us and to our community.”
A Work of Art to Honor Everyday Heroes
Each Heart of Shreveport Award is a one-of-a-kind piece, beginning as a handcrafted glass sculpture by Michelle Pennington of High Gravity Glassworks. The sculpture is paired with an engraved crystal base by Terri Hensley of Advance Awards & Gifts in Bossier City. Together, they symbolize the unity of Shreveport and Bossier City, reflecting the honoree’s unique spirit and impact.
“Vickie is the kind of person who makes our community brighter just by being herself,” said Tim Magner, President of the Greater Shreveport Chamber. “She embodies everything the Heart of Shreveport Award stands for — kindness, service, and a genuine love for others. We are honored to recognize her and grateful for the example she sets for all of us.”
Friday’s ceremony not only honored Winn’s extraordinary contributions but also underscored the Chamber’s mission to grow business and build community across Northwest Louisiana. By recognizing everyday heroes, the Heart of Shreveport Award aims to inspire others to lead with kindness and strengthen the bonds that make Shreveport thrive.