Entrepreneurs are the backbone of New Orleans business community, with Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans training the next generation.
At its City Stars Soirée presented by Susco Solutions on Nov. 13, JA brought together an group of up-and-coming entrepreneurs, its Rising Stars, who are 40 or under and demonstrated strong entrepreneurial skills while upholding the highest moral and ethical standards. This group of Rising Stars included: Patrick Brennan, Congregation Coffee; Zachary Carroll, Ark Animal Hospital; Ruth Lawson, Jefferson Chamber; Jean-Marc Pellerin, Pellerin Laundry Machinery; Sam Solomon, Bancroft Property Investments; and Max Steitz and Franziska Trautmann, Glass Half Full.
In addition to the honors, guests could also celebrate by raising funds for JA. A silent auction featured more than 70 items and an extraordinary live auction package that included a two-night stay at The Chloe Nashville; $100 gift certificate to Barrel Proof Nashville; $100 gift certificate to Love’s Alibi; two-night stay at The Chloe New Orleans with a $100 food and beverage credit and more.
“This generous package was donated by Leblanc & Smith, with the live auction won by Anne Raymond. Event Co-Chair Parke McEnery did a fantastic job serving as auctioneer,” said event Co-Chair Katherine Eshleman Morales. Marti McEnery and Richard Morales were also co-chairs.
JA serves youth from kindergarten to age 25 across 13 parishes in Southeast Louisiana and 29 counties in South Mississippi. The event helped fund several impactful JA programs, including JA Future Connect, JA It’s My Future, JA Be Entrepreneurial and JA Job Shadow.
Fun Fact: During the 2025–2026 school year, JA reached its one-millionth student — a major milestone.
