Women’s success is Louisiana’s success, and higher education must help change the numbers

By: Anita Raj

Outlets: Louisiana Illuminator

Published: February 20, 2026

Words: 553

Last Updated: 2 weeks, 5 days ago


Body Text Preview

In 2023, Louisiana had the highest maternal mortality rate in the nation: 41.9 deaths per 100,000 live births — more than double the national average. Louisiana also ranks worst in the nation on the U.S. Status of Women Index, which measures women’s economic participation, health, and political inclusion.

And the 2025 Louisiana Violence Experiences Survey (LaVEX) shows that one in four women in our state has experienced potentially lethal forms …

© 2025 Plucky Works LLC