Asya Howlette Named New Chief of Staff and Heather Cope Transitions into Chief of Policy & Research
NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana Policy for Children (LPIC) announces a leadership transition that strengthens the organization’s ability to advance bold, data-driven solutions for younger children and families across Louisiana. Asya Howlette has been named Chief of Staff, and Heather Cope will transition into the Chief of Policy and Research role.
As Chief of Staff, Howlette will oversee organizational strategy and operations, strengthen cross-sector partnerships, and support the execution of LPIC’s policy agenda. A strategist, educator, and systems-builder, Howlette brings more than a decade of experience advancing policy and practice at the intersection of education, public service, and child and family well-being. She previously served as the Director of the Office of Youth and Families for the City of New Orleans, where she led citywide strategies focused on access to opportunity, workforce pathways, and long-term investments in young people and children. Prior to that, Howlette held roles as an educator and instructional leader in schools in New Orleans and South Louisiana.
“I’m honored to step into the role of Chief of Staff at LPIC,” said Asya Howlette. “This organization has been a powerful force for Louisiana children and families, and I’m excited to work alongside a team to move policy solutions forward in ways that make a real difference in the state.”
In addition to Howlette’s appointment, LPIC announced that Heather Cope will transition into the role of Chief of Policy and Research. In this position, Heather will lead LPIC’s policy, research, and data-driven advocacy effort, ensuring the organization continues to ground its work in strong evidence and a deep understanding of Louisiana’s early childhood landscape.
“These leadership changes position LPIC for its next phase of impact,” said Libbie Sonnier, PhD, chief executive officer of LPIC. “With Asya strengthening organizational alignment and Heather deepening our policy and research leadership, we are well equipped to advance solutions that improve outcomes for children, families, and the early childhood workforce.”
About Louisiana Policy Institute for Children:
Louisiana Policy Institute for Children is a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring that Louisiana’s young children, from birth to age four, are best prepared for success in school and in life. The Policy Institute develops policy proposals informed by data, research, best practices, and the experiences of other states to improve the outcomes of Louisiana’s youngest citizens, and further provides educational and outreach activities based on recommended policy solutions. The organization works to ensure children are safe, healthy, and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. For more information, visit www.policyinstitutela.org and follow the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.