Meet Our Team

The Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (LA AAP) is guided by a dedicated team of pediatricians and healthcare professionals committed to advancing the health and well-being of children across the state.

Our leadership team brings together pediatricians, child health advocates, and experienced professionals in clinical care, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Under the guidance of Executive Director Natashia Cheatham, MHSA, ACHE, this team drives the Chapter’s strategy and vision to improve children’s health outcomes throughout Louisiana.

Our team members are essential in promoting child health through initiatives like LIPE for ongoing education, advocacy efforts, public health projects, and strengthening family-health system connections. Their diverse expertise helps shape effective policies and programs for children throughout Louisiana.

Our leadership team actively engages in shaping healthcare policies and community initiatives. By developing CME programs based on best practices, issuing public statements to guide health decisions, and spearheading grassroots advocacy, they ensure pediatric expertise informs policy and community actions. Their ability to transform clinical insights into impactful outreach and reform is crucial to the Chapter’s mission.

Collaboration is at the heart of their strategy. By partnering with legislators, building alliances with community and healthcare organizations, and providing families with accessible resources, our leaders consistently advocate for children's welfare in every initiative. Their collective efforts ensure that health services are inclusive, effective, and centered around community needs.

Meet the leaders shaping the future of pediatric health in Louisiana. Through educational initiatives, legislative influence, and strategic partnerships, our team is dedicated to advancing child health. Their unwavering commitment and collaborative vision enable us to advocate passionately and effectively for the well-being of every child.

Our Staff

At LA AAP, our dedicated staff is committed to enhancing pediatric health outcomes across Louisiana through innovative strategies and collaborative efforts.

Natashia Cheatham, MHSA, ACHE; LA AAP Executive Director

Executive Director

Natashia Cheatham

MHSA, ACHE
Julia Vanchiere, LA AAP Education Coordinator

Education Coordinator

Julia Vanchiere

Executive Assistant & Outreach Coordinator

Shannon Martrain

Our Leadership

Our leadership at LA AAP is committed to driving innovative strategies that ensure optimal health outcomes for children throughout Louisiana.

LA AAP; Joseph Bocchini, Jr. MD, FAAP; Shreveport, LA

President

Joseph Bocchini, Jr.

MD, FAAP
Shreveport
LA AAP; Katie Queen MD, FAAP, DABOM; Covington, LA

Secretary/ Treasurer

Katie Queen

MD, FAAP, DABOM
Covington
LA AAP; Megan Louque MD, FAAP; Baton Rouge, LA

Early Career Physician

Megan Louque

MD, FAAP
Baton Rouge
LA AAP; Joseph Ortenberg MD; New Orleans, LA

At-Large Member

Joseph Ortenberg

MD
New Orleans
LA AAP; Tina Simpson MD, FAAP New Orleans, LA

At-Large Member

Tina Simpson

MD, FAAP
New Orleans
LA AAP; Rachel Chatters MD, FAAP; Lake Charles, LA

Immediate Past President

Rachel Chatters

MD, FAAP
Lake Charles

Make a Difference. Donate Today!

By supporting the Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, you are helping to advance policies, programs, and education that protect and promote the health of Louisiana’s children. Every contribution strengthens our mission and extends our impact.