March 2026 · TEG Connections
Reflecting on Remarkable Louisiana Women Leaders
To celebrate Women's History Month, we invite you to reflect on these remarkable Louisiana Women Leaders whom our firm has had the honor of connecting with over the last 25+ years to improve the lives of individuals, families, and children.
Kathleen Babineaux Blanco + Mary Landrieu
On behalf of the late Louisiana Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, TEG created and implemented communications and legislative/community engagement strategies advancing the education, health, social, and economic advancement of women and girls, through the Governor's Office on Women's Policy (OWP).
Among the significant matters championed by former U.S. Senator Mary L. Landrieu was the broadening of health coverage, especially for those without insurance. Supporting the Senator's legislative efforts, TEG collaborated with Cover the Uninsured to educate and raise public awareness across Louisiana.
These groundbreaking women were also resolute partners in their representation of Louisiana during and in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
International Women's Forum
The International Women's Forum was launched in New York City in 1974, when the first generation of women leaders was breaking the glass ceiling in professional sectors from finance to fine arts. Forum founders lacked access to "the old boys' network," so a women's network was born to provide professional and personal support, to aid each member's success and to inspire the women who follow.
IWF Louisiana is an affiliate of the International Women's Forum, now a global organization of more than 7,000 women leaders in 33 countries. Denise is proud to be among the invited 120 Louisiana members, currently led by State President Sharonda R. Williams, Loyola University New Orleans Vice-President, General Counsel, and Director of Government Affairs.
Phyllis Mayo + Norma Jane Sabiston
TEG is fortunate to have trusted personal and professional relationships that have enhanced both its work and reputation. Phyllis Mayo, the first woman elected to the Alexandria City Council (1988–1992) and an executive for CLECO, and the late Norma Jane Sabiston, advisor to Presidents, Senators, Congressmen, Governors, and Mayors, are two such relationships that we value immensely.
Dorothy "Dottie" Reese
TEG owes much to long-time strategic partner and wise trusted friend Dottie Reese. A consummate communicator, civic leader and business owner, Dottie is the second female president in the Sugar Bowl's 92-year history, following 4th Circuit Court of Appeal Judge Monique Morial (2020).
Gayle Benson + Colette Bagert Hirstius
Once considered innovative and challenging positions to attain, women CEOs, Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Corporate and Nonprofit Presidents are essential. We appreciate those leaders who serve their city, state, and community, and two prominent figures in the news of late: Gayle Benson, Owner of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans professional sports franchises, and Colette Bagert Hirstius, President of Shell USA.
On a Personal Note
As Women's History Month comes to a close, there is another essential woman leader that comes to mind. My mother, the incomparable Kathryn LeSaicherre, who recently turned 85. She is accomplished, loving and fearless. Thanks, Mom, for setting the standard. I love you the most.
– Denise
Connect with The Estopinal Group
The Estopinal Group is one of the most experienced communications firms in Louisiana, drawing on decades of public communications and community engagement experience. The firm specializes in creating and executing effective public communications strategies to market and manage brand, frame and advance issues, develop community awareness and support, and provide proactive consistent public communications, crisis communications response and management.