February 26, 2026

Lane Regional Medical Center announced the promotion of Allyson Bennett, MSN, RN, to chief nursing officer. Bennett succeeds Staci Sullivan, MSN, PMHCNS-BC, NEA-BC, RNC, who has served as chief nursing officer since 2015.  In her new role, Allyson will provide strategic nursing leadership and oversee clinical operations.

February 25, 2026

Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University will inaugurate David M. Bellar, PhD, as its fifth president during Inauguration Week, March 23-28. The weeklong celebration features services, community events, and formal ceremonies. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the University are invited to participate.

February 19, 2026

Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center was re-certified by the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI) Certification Program and awarded a three-year accreditation in radiation oncology by the American College of Radiology.

The QOPI Certification Program awards a three-year certification for outpatient hematology-oncology practices that meet nationally-recognized standards for quality cancer care.

February 19, 2026

Oceans Healthcare, a behavioral health provider focused on healing and long-term recovery, announced the appointment of Cady Pruitt, LCSW-BACS, MHA, as hospital CEO for Oceans Behavioral Hospital in Baton Rouge.

In this role, Pruitt will oversee hospital operations, clinical quality, and strategic growth initiatives, supporting Oceans Healthcare’s mission to deliver high-quality behavioral healthcare to patients and families across Louisiana.

February 19, 2026

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is empowering families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to make healthier food choices with today’s implementation of Louisiana’s SNAP Food Restriction Waiver. Approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on August 4, 2025, the two-year pilot initiative removes soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy from the list of items eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.