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FranU and Baton Rouge Alliance’s CYA360 to Host Global Entrepreneur Jeff Hoffman for Community-Wide Event

February 9, 2026

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Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University in partnership with The Alliance’s CYA360 are hosting entrepreneur, innovator and global Business Leader Jeff Hoffman to speak at FranU about “Designing Your Future” for a community-wide event on Thursday, April 9.
 
“Welcoming Jeff Hoffman to FranU is a meaningful opportunity for our campus and for the Baton Rouge community. His work in entrepreneurship and innovation aligns with our commitment to developing leaders who are prepared to serve, lead and contribute in impactful ways. We’re grateful to collaborate with The Alliance to bring this experience to our region,” stated Dr. David Bellar, President and CEO of FranU.
 
The event will open with arrival, networking and light refreshments, followed by an overview of the morning’s theme, “Design Your Future.” The program will feature two keynote sessions by entrepreneur and global business leader Jeff Hoffman, focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship and practical strategies for applying those ideas. Attendees will participate in guided tabletop discussions designed to encourage engagement and reflection, along with opportunities for networking throughout the morning. The event will conclude with a final reflection and key takeaways.
 
“This partnership with Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University and the opportunity to bring Jeff Hoffman to Baton Rouge reflects what’s possible when education, business, and community come together with shared intent,” said Stuart Gilly, Founder of The Alliance. “At The Alliance, we care deeply about workforce and talent development, helping leaders think differently about growth, innovation and the future of work. Events like this don’t just inspire individuals; they strengthen the pipeline of talent and leadership that Baton Rouge needs to thrive long term.”
 
Jeff Hoffman is an award-winning global entrepreneur, bestselling author, and motivational speaker with decades of experience as a founder, CEO, and senior executive. He has been part of several well-known startups, including Priceline.com and uBid.com, and has led both public and private companies. Hoffman currently serves as chairman of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, supporting entrepreneurs in more than 190 countries, and is the founder and CEO of World Youth Horizons, a nonprofit providing education and care to children worldwide. A frequent keynote speaker in more than 70 countries, he speaks on innovation, entrepreneurship, and business leadership and is the author of the book Scale. Hoffman has been featured on major media outlets including CNN, Fox Business, Bloomberg and CNBC.
 
The event will be held on Thursday, April 9, in St. Francis Hall on FranU’s campus at 5414 Brittany Drive in Baton Rouge, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. An RSVP will be required, please RSVP at franu.edu/Hoffman.

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