2016-17 President
This is both a farewell and a Happy New League Year! There aren’t enough superlatives that I could list here to express this past year as President of the Junior League of New Orleans. It is with some sadness but mostly good cheer that I am happy to pass the reins to my esteemed friend, Kristen Cocke Koppel. If there was one lesson that has remained with me after all of this is the importance of continuity. Strong foundations are laid one brick at a time, never dismantling the bricks that were laid before it but strengthening and buttressing the whole structure so that when it is finished it will withstand the tests of time. I was very fortunate to have had Past-Presidents, board members and JLNO leaders that I could call, email or text, who were always willing to give me generous words of wisdom and advice. I never assumed I knew it all and that is where the most personal development has come from as I listened to these women share their experiences and their reasons “why.” As you move forward in leadership – either as an Active member in the League or a Sustainer in the community – remember the foundation that the League has given you of voluntarism, acting as a catalyst for change in our city and the strength in our membership. My humblest of thanks is for the 2016-17 JLNO Board of Directors, I was lucky to get you as part of the team but blessed to be able to call you friends. I know Kristen has an exciting year planned and I cannot wait to read about it in the pages of this magazine…
Gratefully,
Maria Pardo Huete
President 2016-17
2017-18 President
As we begin the 2017-18 Junior League year, we must thank the 2016-17 Board of Directors for their unwavering dedication and leadership. As we begin our 93rd year, I am reminded of the impact we have made in Metropolitan New Orleans, and I am excited for the future. We have an exciting year planned, and I hope you will take a moment to meet the amazing women that comprise the 2017-18 Board of Directors. Each of these women is committed to our mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Gratefully,
Kristen Cocke Koppel
President 2017-18
