United Way of Southeast Louisiana’s annual gala, backing the nonprofit’s mission to eradicate poverty in the region, presented the esteemed Alexis de Tocqueville Award to 2019 honoree Roger H. Ogden. Upon receiving the award, Ogden said, “If you can paint a picture for people of how they can make a difference through giving, then the art of giving becomes more art than science.”
Cathy McRae, UWSELA Tocqueville Society Cabinet Chair, welcomed attendees to the dinner gala, gave a presentation and the society introduction. Gary Lorio, UWSELA Board of Trustees Chair, gave the introduction, followed by remarks from Michael Williamson, UWSELA President & CEO. Storytellers included Giazzlyn Duncan, Jillian Delos Reyes and Ronnie Slone. Remarks were also given by UWSELA Campaign Cabinet Chair Hunter Hill as well as UWSELA Tocqueville Society Chair Florence Schornstein.
Guests dined on a three-course menu, offering a salad course, burgundy braised short rib with white truffle grits and a dessert course featuring a duo plate of white chocolate tart and a chocolate crunch mousse dome.
A dazzling silent auction featured grand prizes ranging from getaways to Saints packages, private dining experiences, Southern charm offerings and local staycations.
The “Alexis de Tocqueville Award Celebration 2019” was presented by IBERIABANK with support from Entergy Corporation, Pres Kabacoff and generous individuals and companies. Tocqueville Society Founder Allen Favrot, as well as several former Tocqueville Award recipients were in attendance.
Event at a Glance
What: “Alexis de Tocqueville Society Gala,” benefiting United Way of Southeast Louisiana
When: Thursday, October 24
Where: The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans
Tocqueville Cabinet Chair Cathy McRae and COO Charmaine Caccioppi
William Andrews, Jessie Haynes and Ken Barnes