Sandra Thompson Herman
Founder
President

Sandra Thompson Herman, Founder, and President With a career spanning nearly four decades, Sandra Thompson Herman has blazed countless trails, paving the way for dreamers to become doers in Louisiana. In 1975, in her 20s, Sandra designed the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism and served as its first cabinet-level Secretary, leading the department […]

Laurie Guimont
Chief Strategist

Laurie Guimont, Chief Strategist Laurie Guimont boasts a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in the pharmaceutical sector, specializing in sales management and sales training.  As a manager, Laurie adeptly guided teams across various states, prioritizing both business development and the professional growth of her team members, many of whom she mentored into Senior and […]

Katelyn Reagan Denty
CEO
Executive Director

Katelyn Reagan Denty, CEO, and Executive Director Katelyn Reagan Denty is a dynamic and dedicated leader committed to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the arts in New Orleans, Louisiana. Originally hailing from Hot Springs, Arkansas, Katelyn earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Central Arkansas, where she cultivated her love for […]

Dajah Roberts
Office Manager

Dajah Roberts, Office Manager Dajah J. Roberts is a seasoned professional with over 10 years of experience in various office environments, excelling in organizational skills and collaboration. A native New Orleanian and lover of history, previously as a Legal Support Specialist at Taylor Wellons Politz Duhe. Dajah is a graduate of Chalmette High School and […]

Alexandra Holliday
Development
Policy Strategist

Alexandra Holliday, Development, and Policy Strategist Alexandra Holliday is a committed researcher, strategist, and advocate for sustainable economic development through maritime trade and urban revitalization. Hailing from Louisiana, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Government and Sociology from Georgetown University. After gaining valuable experience on Capitol Hill and in the fashion industry—where she developed a […]

Karen Nabonne Coaxum
Chair

Karen Nabonne Coaxum, Chair Karen Nabonne Coaxum is a proud native of New Orleans, having grown up in the historic community of Pontchartrain Park. An honors graduate of St. Mary’s Academy High School, she served as editor of both the school’s newspaper and yearbook. Karen attended Loyola University New Orleans, where she contributed as a […]

Stephanie Burks
Vice Chair

Stephanie Burks, Vice Chair Stephanie Burks is the Co-Founder and Executive Vice-President of Corporate and Community Affairs at RYCARS Construction, LLC, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand’s vision. Founded in 2002 from a home office, RYCARS name serves as an acronym for her loved ones—an enduring legacy for future generations. In […]

Nicole Ferrier
Secretary

Nicole Ferrier, Secretary Nicole Ferrier identifies as a New Orleanian, even though her roots trace back to Texarkana, Arkansas. She dedicated 15 years to serving as the Executive Director for Jefferson Parish, collaborating with elected officials, national organizations, and community leaders within Jefferson Parish and its neighbors. Before her time in Jefferson Parish, Nicole built […]

Val Grubb
Treasurer

Val Grubb, Treasurer Val Grubb is a captivating and lively speaker known for her ability to educate and inspire audiences by leveraging her extensive senior management experience across various industries. Her presentations aim to empower listeners to achieve breakthrough results, exceed their expectations, and drive their success forward. For a glimpse of her dynamic presentation […]

Taryn Brown

Taryn Brown Taryn Brown is highly skilled on the basketball court and a distinguished former Captain of the University of Texas’ women’s basketball team. After earning her degree, she spent a year in Japan, working as a boys’ basketball coach and model before returning to Manhattan, where she took on roles as a college basketball […]