Charla H. Ducote, Vice President of Public Relations, Marketing and Business Development at Rapides Regional Medical Center, recently received the “Marketer of the Year” Golden Pelican Award from the Louisiana Hospital Association’s Society for Hospital Public Relations and Marketing.

During the 34th annual awards ceremony, LSHPRM awarded 57 Pelican Awards, 23 Certificates of Merit, and 10 special Golden Pelican Awards, which recognize excellence in individuals or groups who advance the sound principles of communications, marketing and public relations within the hospital field.

Ducote took home one of the 10 special awards for her leadership in marketing, expertise and advancing the role of marketing in Central Louisiana and at Rapides Regional Medical Center. She has worked in the field of marketing and public relations for more than 21 years, both in the private and not-for-profit sector. Currently, she is responsible for all business development opportunities, marketing, advertising and public relations functions for Rapides Regional Medical Center.

“Charla is a valued and trusted member of our administrative team,” said Jason Cobb, Rapides Regional Medical Center president and CEO. “When it comes to business development, public relations and marketing, we have the best. But more than that, it’s her love for our hospital, our patients, employees and Central Louisiana as a whole that sets her apart.”

Ducote received a bachelor’s degree in journalism with an emphasis in public relations from Louisiana College. She has been involved in a variety of community organizations at the state and local level. That list includes March of Dimes, American Heart Association, Louisiana Hospital Association Public Relations and Marketing Society, American Cancer Society and United Way, to name a few.

She has been married to Rick Ducote, Rapides Parish Tax Accessor, for 22 years. They have two children, Trey, 19 and Madeline, 16.