NATCHITOCHES – Northwestern State University alumni Abby Williams and Jorian Dodd returned to NSU Friday, Sept. 11, as emcees of the 2026 Level Up Conference in the NSU Student Union.
Williams, a business development representative at BOM, and Dodd, who works in BOM’s human resources department, are both Natchitoches Chamber ambassadors. They guided attendees through the conference, which brought college students, early-career professionals, business leaders and other professionals together for workshops, networking and professional development.
“I haven’t been out of college that long, so I think it will be special getting to go back not as a student but as a professional representing the bank and getting to emcee a conference,” Williams said.
Williams, of Natchitoches, graduated from NSU in May 2025 with a degree in accounting and a minor in business administration. During her time at NSU, she was involved in cheerleading and Phi Mu.
“I served as a captain for the team for two of those years. I was also very involved in Phi Mu, where I served as vice president and president of the chapter, and so from those I learned a lot of leadership and communication skills and just how to work with people,” Williams said. “Looking back now, it really prepared me for my career, although I didn’t realize that at the time.”
Dodd, of Dallas, graduated from NSU in December 2024 with a degree in engineering technology. His involvement with the Natchitoches Chamber led to the opportunity to serve as an emcee for Level Up.
“Through BOM Bank, we love to be involved in the community, and one of the opportunities that I was given was to be a Natchitoches Chamber ambassador. Through the ambassador program, I was given the opportunity to emcee the Level Up Conference,” Dodd said. “It’ll be a full-circle moment, and it’ll be really nice seeing all of the students there that are wanting to get involved in the workforce.”
Organized by the Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce, Level Up featured a keynote address, workshops, networking opportunities and a Vendor Village. The conference offered three tracks designed for attendees at different stages of their careers.
The Ignite track was designed for college students, interns, recent graduates and early-career professionals. Sessions focused on developing a professional reputation, practical life and workplace skills and using artificial intelligence in professional settings.
The Elevate track focused on career builders, emerging leaders and team influencers, with sessions on professional relationships, career goals and leading without a formal leadership title.
The Lead track was designed for managers, executives, team leaders and business owners. Sessions addressed workplace communication, management and employee well-being. Attendees could select one track or attend sessions across the three tracks based on their interests and career stage.
“I think what sets it apart from other conferences is that it really is for everyone,” Williams said. “Whether you’re a student, you’re just starting your career, or maybe you’re looking for new opportunities to grow, Level Up is designed to just meet you where you are and help you grow from there.”
The conference also gave attendees opportunities to connect with professionals and businesses through networking activities. The Vendor Village featured local businesses and resources along with interactive wellness activities. Dodd said building those connections can be especially valuable for students preparing to enter the workforce.
“Working in human resources, I get to be on the other side of the interviews. I get to ask the questions now, and one of the things that I learned is super important for students is that making connections is a huge thing,” Dodd said. “Being involved in your community is a huge thing because word of mouth goes really far. Having someone know you can be your step into the door for a lot of different positions.”