"VOLUNTEERISM and CITIZEN SERVICE must lead Louisiana's recovery effort." -Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu The Louisiana Serve Commission is pleased to announce Volunteer Louisiana, a website and call center that matches volunteers with service opportunities throughout the state. Visit www.volunteerlouisiana.gov or call 866-286-3835 or 225-342-3070 to find out how you can begin a summer of service.

Impact - DCRT Returns Investment Dollars to Louisiana For every state tax dollar spent by the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, $5.86 is returned to the State Treasury and citizens of Louisiana. Source: The Impact of the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism on Louisiana's Economy and Quality of Life for Louisiana's... Learn More >>

December 19, 2007

CONTACT:
Maria Mercedes Tio
2253428153
mtio@crt.state.la.us

(Baton Rouge, LA) - Today, Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu announced Attorney Dawn Romero Watson as his choice for Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. Dawn Watson comes with great bipartisan experience, having served as Secretary of the Department of Labor under Governor Mike Foster and Deputy Executive Counsel for Governor Kathleen Blanco. She has served as Undersecretary in the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism for nearly two years.

"Dawn Watson brings a vast knowledge of state government, strong leadership skills and outstanding human relations skills to this position," said Lt. Governor Landrieu. "She is the perfect choice to advance the work done during my first administration."

Landrieu also said "Watson is well respected among legislators of both parties and her colleagues for her ability to build consensus and clearly articulate solutions to challenging issues. This experience will be invaluable working with stakeholders across the state and nationally."

Watson has also served as a staff attorney for the following committees: House and Governmental Affairs, Labor and Industrial Relations and Commerce.

"Dawn Romero Watson is a great choice for CRT Secretary," said Senator Mike Michot. "She is a skilled attorney and an able administrator. She is highly regarded in the legislature."

"Watson's strength lies in her ability to work well with people, said Senator Sharon Weston Broome. "As a seasoned public servant, she understands the value of those she works with and those she serves."

Watson will be charged with implementing Lt. Governor Landrieu's vision for the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism as an entrepreneurial, innovative and high-performing organization through four, measurable results:

1. Position Louisiana as a top tourism destination worldwide;
2. Make Louisiana's Cultural Economy the engine of economic and social engagement;
3. Strengthen the learning, lives and livelihoods for all of Louisiana's people;
4. Set the standard for high performance, accountability and ethical behavior.