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Honoree J. Wayne Leonard and Jackie Leonard
The members of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society of United Way of Southeast Louisiana honored exceptional entrepreneur and philanthropist J. Wayne Leonard with its highest award for exemplary leadership in community, volunteerism and philanthropy. C. Allen Favrot was also recognized with the UWSELA Lifetime Achievement Award.
Reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour, golden award statues decorated the Hyatt Regency ballroom, accented by white florals, gold details and film elements woven throughout.
The Hyatt Regency catered a three-course menu, beginning with a salad course, an entrée featuring Abita beer-braised short ribs with potato gratin and an assortment of dessert minis including bananas Foster cheesecake, chocolate ganache and bourbon pecan pie.
Richard Haase, Board of Trustees Chair for UWSELA, served as Master of Ceremonies. Additional speakers included Michael Williamson, President and CEO of UWSELA; Robert Kimbro, Chair of the Tocqueville Society Cabinet; Charles L. Rice Jr., President and CEO of Entergy Corporation; Leo Denault, Chairman and CEO of Entergy Corporation; and Florence Schornstein, Chair of the Tocqueville Society.
The gala raised more than $2 million to support United Way’s mission to eradicate poverty in Southeast Louisiana. Entergy Corporation served as presenting sponsor.
Event at a Glance
What: “Tocqueville Society Gala,” benefiting United Way of Southeast Louisiana
When: Thursday, October 12
Where: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
