AARP Louisiana Announces New Additions to the Executive Council

AARP Louisiana is pleased to introduce three new members to its Executive Council, a group of dedicated volunteer leaders hailing from various parts of the state. They are joining a team of volunteers committed to steering the strategic direction and championing AARP's priorities in Louisiana.

Denise Bottcher, state director of AARP in Louisiana expressed her gratitude stating, "We are incredibly fortunate to have this group of highly skilled professionals joining the ranks as we embark on the next phase of our strategic plan. Their commitment to addressing the needs of Louisianans aged 50 and above is truly commendable."

Alfred E. Mason, state president, also emphasized the significance of the new members noting, "Our Executive Council members serve with boundless passion and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on our community. We are thrilled to welcome individuals with fresh perspectives and diverse experiences."

Executive Council members are appointed by the state president for a one-year term and serve as the voice of AARP in their communities.



MEET THE NEW MEMBERS

Mike Benson of Baton Rouge recently announced his retirement, capping off a radio career spanning over four decades. He served as a Senior Account Executive at Audacy in Louisiana, where he ranked among the company’s Top Account Executives nationally in 2021 and 2022.

Before his tenure at Audacy, Mike was a Senior Account Manager at Guaranty Media for nearly 15 years. His career also included roles as a manager of multiple stations in Baton Rouge and as a Program Director and Morning Drive host at various stations on the Jersey Shore. Mike launched his career in the early 1980s, joining the original staff of AOR The Fox 101 in Grand Rapids, MI, and later worked mornings at Rock 101 (WROQ) in Greenville/Spartanburg, SC.

Beyond radio, Mike served as Chairman for the Better Business Bureau Southeast Louisiana Chapter. In retirement, he enjoys performing in a local Classic Rock Band, Studio4, and playing pickleball and golf.

Patsy McClanahan of Monroe joins the AARP Executive Council with 48 years of nursing experience. A graduate of Northeast Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she later earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Northwestern State University. Patsy began her nursing career in 1976 and eventually became a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.

Throughout her career, Patsy served on the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, holding three officer positions, including three years as President. She played a key role in passing legislation to improve healthcare in Louisiana, notably obtaining Prescriptive Authority for Advanced Practice Nurses in the late 1990s. Patsy has also served as treasurer and regional representative for the Louisiana Association of Nurse Practitioners and remains an active member of both LANP and AANP.

In 2011, she retired from Louisiana State University-EA Conway division in Monroe and later worked in private practice in Winnsboro, providing care in a rural clinic setting. Patsy has dedicated her career to providing care to numerous women in Louisiana, understanding the barriers to care, especially for minority women.

A member of AARP for about 20 years, Patsy is committed to contributing to the organization's goals. She believes the critical issues facing the aging population are rising healthcare costs and preventing fraud against this vulnerable age group.

Nellie Prudho of Lafayette is an accomplished nursing instructor and registered nurse with over 50 years of diverse healthcare experience, specializing in teaching at all nursing program levels (Graduate, MSN, BSN, Associate, and LVN). Her expertise spans medical-surgical, community health, psychiatric mental health, and clinical research.

 Recognized for excellence in nursing education and clinical practice, including prestigious roles like Women & Children’s Endowed Professorship and State Nurse Researcher. She has held leadership positions in clinical and educational institutions and has contributed to global and national emergency response missions.

With a background in grant writing and evaluation, she has supported national healthcare projects. As a retired U.S. Army Nurse, she brings over 25 years of experience in clinical quality assurance and staff development. She is committed to remote nursing education, mentoring, and guiding nursing students toward their career goals.

 AARP Louisiana has nearly 450,000 members statewide. The new members will comprise a team of 11 individuals dedicated to advocating for issues impacting Louisiana's 50+ community.

The new members will comprise a team of 11 individuals dedicated to advocating for issues impacting Louisiana's 50+ community.

AARP Louisiana has nearly 450,000 members statewide.