I recently returned to Marathon Petroleum Company’s (MPC) Louisiana Refining Division (LRD) after three years at one of our refineries in Texas.

I was previously employed at the LRD from 2011-2014 and was ecstatic when I was offered the opportunity to return to Garyville. My parents have lived in Louisiana for over a decade, and Louisiana has always felt more like home to me than anywhere else.

I’m very proud to be part of the LRD team serving this community once more.

Since returning, I’ve been looking forward to the opportunity to participate in our extensive community outreach efforts.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting with Parish President Natalie Robottom, Sheriff Mike Tregre and a host of other community leaders.

I’m honored to serve on the St. John United Way Board of Directors, which provides an exciting means of making a positive and impactful contribution to our local community.

One exciting example of our community partnerships is just around the corner — the annual St. John Parish Back-to-School Backpack Extravaganza. This event provides backpacks, school supplies and hygiene kits to local children who need a little help to ensure they start the school year off on a good note.

I would like to extend an invite to St. John Parish residents in need of assistance to attend the Backpack Extravaganza, which will be held at the St. John Parish Community Center located at 2900 U.S. 51 in LaPlace on Saturday/July 22. The event is spearheaded by Blessed to be a Blessing and Eliza Eugene.

Our goal is to distribute 1,000 school supply kits to students grades K-12.  This event is in partnership with many of our elected officials and community stakeholders, including several local non-profit organizations.

A number of Marathon employees will also be volunteering throughout the day to assist in making the event enjoyable and successful for all those participating.

I look forward to meeting more of you in the coming weeks and to continuing our strong, positive relationships in the Parish!

Megan Hudson is the Human Resources Manager for Marathon Petroleum’s Garyville Refinery. She can be reached at mnhudson@marathonpetroleum.com.