Grand Marshals
Honoring Tradition. Celebrating Impact.
Throughout Louisiana’s rich Mardi Gras history, Grand Marshals have symbolized the heart of a parade – individuals whose lives, leadership, and service reflect the values of the community they represent. Serving as a Grand Marshal is both an honor and a responsibility, recognizing those who inspire others through excellence, dedication, and character.
As we launch the Inaugural Zachary Mardi Gras Parade, we are proud to continue this tradition by introducing our first-ever Grand Marshals. In alignment with our 2026 parade theme, “Celebrating Everyday Heroes,” we honor two remarkable individuals whose influence reaches far beyond their professions and into the lives of countless people.
Regena Hartley beard
Co–Grand Marshal
2026 Louisiana Teacher of the Year
Regena Hartley Beard is a celebrated educator, leader, and champion for student achievement in Zachary, Louisiana. She serves as a fifth-grade science and sixth-grade robotics and STEM educator at Copper Mill Elementary, where her passion for innovation and learning has helped shape the next generation of thinkers and problem-solvers.
As the 2026 Louisiana Teacher of the Year, Beard represents excellence in education at the highest level. She is a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching, the nation’s highest honor for STEM educators, and has also been named Outstanding Science Teacher of the Year by the Louisiana Science Teachers Association.
Widely respected and deeply admired, Regena Hartley Beard embodies what it means to be an everyday hero, uplifting young minds, strengthening the community, and leading with purpose, heart, and impact.
Inspiring future innovators through education and leadership.
doug williams
Co–Grand Marshal
Super Bowl Champion & Football Trailblazer
Doug Williams is a legendary American football quarterback whose groundbreaking career changed the landscape of professional sports. In 1988, Williams made history as the first Black quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl, leading the Washington Redskins to victory in Super Bowl XXII.
A former first-round draft pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and standout star in the USFL, Williams is also a College Football Hall of Famer from Grambling State University. His success extended beyond the field through distinguished roles as a coach, executive, and mentor, continuing to open doors for future generations.
Doug Williams’ legacy is one of perseverance, leadership, and courage. His influence reaches far beyond football, making him a powerful symbol of possibility, progress, and excellence—perfectly reflecting the spirit of Celebrating Everyday Heroes.
A trailblazer whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
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