Every year, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce recognizes outstanding individuals from multiple sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, technology, first responders, military and educators, who have gone above and beyond the call of duty. These are the people who make a difference in our community every single day but often go underrecognized.
This initiative is called Salute to Community Heroes, sponsored by Willis Knighton Health and Barksdale Federal Credit Union. Heroes are nominated by the community, and all nominations are considered when selecting awardees.
In 2026, the Bossier Chamber is surprising these heroes at their places of work and presenting them with a medal honoring them among their peers.
The first award of 2026 was presented to Jennifer Lee, RN, who works as a school nurse for Bossier Parish Schools. She was nominated for her outstanding professionalism and quick-thinking which contributed to saving the life of an 11th grade student athlete who went into sudden cardiac arrest during practice.
Lee, or “Nurse Jenn” as she’s called by her students at Benton High, remained calm and entirely focused on the task of performing life-saving measures. Her heroism, medical knowledge and the use of an AED (automated external defibrillator) all contributed to the successful outcome of her and her team’s efforts.
“From the Bossier Chamber, we’d like to sincerely thank Nurse Jenn and the rest of the staff at Benton High for their heroism. Jennifer is one of the people who make the Bossier community so special. We’re honored to bring more attention to this amazing story and highlight the responsibility that school nurses undertake with their position,” said Lisa Johnson, President/CEO of the Bossier Chamber.
Next month, the Bossier Chamber will honor another hero and platform their story so that the community can recognize their service.