At its annual Business Hall of Fame event, Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans celebrates business and civic leaders whose accomplishments have strengthened the region’s economic vitality and inspired future generations of entrepreneurs.
Held this year on May 22 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans Hotel, the event kicked off with a procession introducing 16 past Hall of Fame members by class year, followed by welcome remarks by event Chair Vanessa Brown Claiborne and JA President Larry Washington. Madison Hatch, a junior at Chalmette High School, also spoke.
The 2025 Laureates were Judy Barrasso, founding member of Barrasso Usdin Kupperman Freeman & Sarver; Tommy Cvitanovich, owner and general manager of Drago’s Seafood Restaurant; Dr. Takeisha Davis, CEO and president of New Orleans East Hospital; Troy Henry, founder and managing partner of Henry Consulting, and Samir Mowad, senior vice president and general manager for Caesars Entertainment.
Adding to the evening’s significance, the Lifetime Achievement Award honored Henry Shane, chairman of Favrot & Shane Companies, and Canal Barge Co., led by Merritt Lane, received the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Business of the Year recognition.
Claiborne presented each honoree with a crystal eagle — a symbol of entrepreneurial excellence — following a special video tribute for each awardee.
Fun Fact: Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans is celebrating 70 years in the area and will reach its one millionth student during the 2025-2026 school year.
