BOSSIER CITY, La. — U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson honored community leaders and public servants from across Louisiana’s Fourth Congressional District during the annual Spirit of Louisiana Awards ceremony on May 28.
The event was held at the Bossier Parish School for Technology and Innovative Learning and recognized individuals for their contributions to community service, civic engagement and public leadership.
Local officials, educators, law enforcement representatives and community members attended the ceremony, which Johnson described as one of his favorite annual events.
“One of the great joys of being the representative for Louisiana’s Fourth Congressional District is that we have the greatest people in the world,” Johnson said. “So many worthy recipients of awards like this.”
Among those recognized from Bossier Parish were Jill Sessions, Bossier Parish clerk of court, and Julian Whittington, Bossier Parish sheriff, who were honored for their leadership and service to the community.
Johnson said the awards highlight the values and commitment to service demonstrated by residents throughout northwest Louisiana. He also noted the significance of community leadership as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of American independence.
“When we represent Louisiana, we’re representing Louisiana’s interests. We’re representing America’s interests,” Johnson said. “At the heart of it all is patriotism, family and community.”
The ceremony concluded with individual recognitions for award recipients whose work has contributed to their communities across the Fourth Congressional District.
Stacey Tinsley of the Bossier Press-Tribune contributed to this report.