I have found that the region's unique strength lies in its community of creatives, changemakers, and advocates all wanting to build a better way of life.

Josef Ventulan, Attorney at the Louisiana State Law Institute, Legal Eagle
Josef Ventulan, Attorney at the Louisiana State Law Institute, Legal Eagle

A Coin Flip that Led Me to BTR

My being in Baton Rouge is, quite literally, the result of a coin flip when deciding which university to attend. Because the coin landed on tails (for Tigers), I attended Louisiana State University (LSU). I went on to attend Southern University Law Center for my juris doctor. In the years since, I have explored moving to a different city, but opportunity to grow and build a career here has always presented itself, and always at the right time. As luck would have it, Baton Rouge is my home.  

Our city embraces connection and offers a wide assortment of festivals, culinary experiences, and networking opportunities.

I have found that the city’s unique strength lies in its community of creatives, changemakers, and advocates all wanting to build a better way of life (and having a wonderful time while doing so).  

Finding My Network with Ease

Finding a community in Baton Rouge was rather simple. I am a member of Forum 225 and have for a few years served on its board of directors. Having helped lead the organization, I witnessed firsthand the impact motivated young professionals have on the city – it was inspiring. This experience reinforced my love for Baton Rouge and developed my investment in its growth.

Josef (top right) at a Forum 225 social event

I am also a member of the Baton Rouge Bar Association where, as a young attorney, I acquired various mentors working in diverse practice areas. Both organizations enthusiastically welcomed me, and I was easily able to find fellowship while fulfilling my desire to help others.

My BTR Opportunity as an Attorney

Baton Rouge is uniquely situated to provide a diverse and vibrant legal community, especially for new attorneys. The city is home to two amazing law schools, many law firms, and numerous courts. Baton Rouge is also home to our state legislature. Proximity to varied legal knowledge and resources affords Baton Rouge the ability to deliver vast opportunities with respect to legal employment.

Josef attending a Baton Rouge Bar Association event

I have had the privilege of clerking for Judge Lisa Woodruff-White (ret.) at the Family Court, teaching at Southern University Law Center, and researching complex legal frameworks for Judge Guy Holdridge (ret.) at the Louisiana State Law Institute. I would not have had these opportunities had I chosen to live elsewhere – especially not within the short time that I have been an attorney.

Every BTR Weekend is Perfectly Different

The sheer number of things to do in Baton Rouge makes every weekend different, and each weekend can be perfect. Whether you are in the mood to visit a museum, sample local cuisine, cheer for the Tigers and Jags, or dance the night away, Baton Rouge has it all. For me, a perfect Saturday in Baton Rouge – not during football season – starts with an iced earl grey from Highland Coffees, continues into brunch at Beausoleil, and ends with a dinner and drinks at DiGiulio’s.

Though a coin flip brought me to Baton Rouge, luck is not what kept me here. The city is dynamic, welcoming of growth, and worthy of our investment.

I have found that the region's unique strength lies in its community of creatives, changemakers, and advocates all wanting to build a better way of life.

Read Josef's Story
Josef Ventulan, Attorney at the Louisiana State Law Institute, Legal Eagle

There’s something magnetic about Baton Rouge—a perfect mix of Southern charm and creative energy that makes it an ideal place to live and grow.

Read Melissa's Story
Melissa Thompson, Partner at Success Labs, Connection Curator

You are who you surround yourself with. BTR offers world class talent, community, experiences, and fellowship you can’t find elsewhere.

Read Seth's Story
Seth Irby, Chief Strategy Officer at LWCC, Serial Entertainer/Host/Storyteller

The pace of life felt less hectic, and I immediately felt comfortable.

Read Sarah's Story
Sarah Joy Hays, Owner/Chief Kitchen Officer at CounterspaceBR, Caffeine Enthusiast

Because of the many opportunities in Baton Rouge, from innovative business models to the metropolitan area's growth, this is a perfect landing spot for entrepreneurs.

Read Chris's Story
Chris Hilliard, Co-Founder/CEO of Suds Laundry Services, Laundry Folding Expert

It’s common to make some great business deals during the week, then get invited to that client’s family BBQ or crawfish boil that very weekend.

Read Ben's Story
Ben Marcel, CEO of Torapath Technologies, Owner of LA Threaux and Code Ninjas, Technology Integrator

Baton Rouge stands distinct, offering a rich, dynamic way of life that continually captivates my heart.

Read Sinella's Story
Dr. Sinella Aghasi, Associate Executive Director at Kids’ Orchestra, Music Maven

BTR Things Are Coming in 2025.

Better in BTR is a multi-media marketing campaign and website designed to celebrate and retain the incredible talent already thriving in Louisiana’s Capital Region. By showcasing why this is the best place to grow both professionally and personally, we’re fostering pride in our community and solidifying Baton Rouge as a place to stay and succeed.

Get involved and help us keep Baton Rouge moving forward.

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