For over two decades, Avenue has been celebrating the extraordinary impact of philanthropists, volunteers and community leaders — recognizing more than 90 as Activists of the Year. These honorees are united by their unwavering dedication to making a difference in areas such as mentoring, the arts, education, health and more. The 2024 distinguished class shines a light on five more remarkable people: Nellie Catzen, Michelle Cheramie, Mark Raymond Jr., Monique Robinson and Dodie Smith-Simmons, all of whose involvement in the city — be it through civic engagement, animal rescue, disability advocacy, youth advocacy or as a civil rights icon who was also integral to the music scene of New Orleans — have made and are making the city a better place to work and live.
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Michelle Cheramie
Michelle Cheramie and her staff and volunteers for Zeus’ Place and Zeus’ Rescue have rescued and placed more than 14,000 cats and dogs — about 800 a year — since 2006.…
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Mark Raymond Jr.
Life can change in a split second. Minutely on occasion, while other times in profound ways that redefine everything. For Mark Raymond Jr., a pivotal moment set him on his…
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Doratha “Dodie” Smith-Simmons
It’s all about the music for Doratha “Dodie” Smith-Simmons. Going out to listen to it, dancing, meeting up with friends, the joy. Music has been a passion since, no doubt,…
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Monique Robinson, LMSW
It’s lunchtime at Cafe Reconcile — a mainstay on Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard — where the tables are full of patrons enjoying New Orleans cuisine: heaping plates of red beans…
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Nellie Catzen
About two years into her job, Nellie Catzen decided to throw a party. Not just any party, though. As the executive director of the Committee for a Better New Orleans,…
