OUR MISSION
The Pelican Institute’s mission is to research and develop policy solutions to address the most significant barriers to opportunity in Louisiana. We educate the public about the benefits of individual liberty and free enterprise, turning great ideas into powerful policy solutions that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
WHO WE ARE
We believe Louisiana is the best and most unique place in the world. Louisianans live life to the fullest and exude a joie de vivre envied the world around. And, yet, too many are left behind or driven to other places by misguided policies. Our state should be a place where people of all talents, interests, and backgrounds can succeed with hard work and ingenuity. We want everyone to live, work, and prosper in a state where communities flourish and good opportunities abound.
We execute this mission thanks to the generosity and partnership of individuals and organizations who share our commitment to opportunity and human flourishing. The Pelican Institute does not accept government funds or contributions to influence the outcomes of its research.
To fulfill this mission, the Pelican Institute engages in:
IN MEMORIAM: KEVIN KANE
The Pelican Institute was founded in 2008 by Kevin Kane, who led the organization until his untimely death in October of 2016. A well-respected leader on free-market public policy, his work, alongside other partners in the state, led to the passage in 2017 of landmark criminal justice reforms. Many individuals and organizations celebrated Kevin’s accomplishments and noted his passing, including The Times-Picayune, State Policy Network, The Advocate, and Gambit.
Our team
Staff
LAURIE WHITE ADAMS
Director of Government Affairs & Advocacy
MEGHAN AMADOR
Marketing Coordinator
JAMES BAEHR
Special Counsel
ERIN BENDILY, PH.D.
Vice President for Policy & Strategy
RACHEL JEANDRON CALUDA
Director of Development
BARTLETT D. CLELAND
Tech Fellow
JOSH CRAWFORD
Senior Fellow
DANIEL J. ERSPAMER
Chief Executive Officer
LESLIE FOWLKES
Digital Marketing Coordinator
VANCE GINN, PH.D.
Chief Economist
SARAH HARBISON
General Counsel
SYDNEY PETITE
Chief Marketing Officer
DR. GAVIN ROBERTS
Senior Fellow, Energy
HOPE SCHUMAKER
Policy Associate
