As the state continues to mourn the loss of former Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, some in her hometown are reflecting on the legacy she leaves behind.
The alumni association for her former high school says they will forever be grateful, that Blanco never forgot her roots.
"She meant so much to us," Jenny Minvielle with Catholic High School said. "She was a New Iberia native. She really just always had New Iberia in her heart. She always came back here."
Blanco graduated from Mount Carmel Academy in 1960. Years later the school would close, but the alumni association continues to keep the school's memory alive at Catholic High School.
Minvielle says Blanco left a lasting legacy
"As she held all the positions she had, she never forgot about us. She was sincere and loyal. She always wanted the best for all of the students in school."
Blanco would often visit the school and speak to students. Minvielle says Blanco's life is a testament to all.
"I hope that the students learn that you can do anything,"Minvielle said.
"She was the first woman Governor and first woman to do a lot of things. I find that people can really take away that if you work hard, you can do it. Some might say I'm just from New Iberia, well guess what you can do anything."
