Brenda Hatfield: The Powerhouse Behind AARP Louisiana

 

It’s press day at the AARP Louisiana office. Camera men and reporters flank the conference room as they prepare for their respective interviews with an AARP representative. Who will represent AARP Louisiana? None other than State President Dr. Brenda Hatfield.

With ease, she puts on her mic and fluently answers every question that is thrown her way, serving AARP and her community in a very influential way.

Hatfield personifies the AARP vision with her vibrant personality, unwavering confidence and persistent commitment to delivering a positive social change through advocacy, information and service.

Upon retiring, Hatfield wanted to give back to her Louisiana community in a meaningful way by using the 40 years of skills and experience she acquired while working in public service. Her passion for making a difference in the lives of people of all ages, created the dynamic leader she is today.

“I began volunteering for AARP Louisiana in May 2011,” Hatfield said. “I was appointed State President, which is considered the top volunteer position in the organization.”

Becoming State President wasn't a difficult transition for Hatfield. Before joining the AARP team, Hatfield served as Chief Administrative Officer for the City of New Orleans, and prior to that she served as the city’s Director of Intergovernmental Relations for Cox Communications.

As State President, she now represents nearly 500,000 AARP members in Louisiana, leading a team of volunteers to serve the 50+ population in the pursuit of quality healthcare and financial security.

Hatfield serves as the face of AARP Louisiana; meeting with elected officials, speaking with the media, and representing AARP with organizations that have common interests.

“My favorite thing about volunteering with AARP is meeting and working with diverse groups of people,” Hatfield explains. “Our achievements and accomplishments really are a group effort to celebrate.”

Dedicated to public service, Hatfield plans to continue volunteering in whatever ways she is needed by AARP, even when her 6-year term is over.

“My greatest accomplishments have been reflected in the motto of our founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, ‘To serve, not to be served,’” Hatfield explains.

To this day, she strives towards aiding and advocating for the benefit of those persons who are 50+ and she doesn't plan to stop anytime soon.