More than 300 people attended the gala honoring nine individuals who embody the spirit of business leadership and community values.
The evening began with the introduction of 20 members of the Business Hall of Fame, who were introduced in procession style by class year.
Recognized for their significant contributions to the success of their profession, the 2019 Laureates were: Lynne A. Burkart, Director, Postlethwaite & Netterville; Barry F. Kern, President & CEO, Kern Studios & Mardi Gras World; Dennis Lauscha, President, New Orleans Saints & Pelicans; Curtis A. Pellerin, President, Pellerin Laundry Machinery; James W. Pellerin, Chairman & CEO, Pellerin Milnor Corporation; David M. Rubenstein, President, Rubensteins; and Allen Square, Founder & CEO, Square Button.
The Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree was Walter E. Blessey Jr., Chairman & CEO, Blessey Marine Services, Inc. Honored with the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Business of the Year was David Fennelly, CEO, Associated Terminals & Turn Services.
Each honoree was awarded a crystal eagle designed by Waterford as a symbol of their entrepreneurial spirit and excellence in business leadership. A special video tribute and Hall of Fame member introduced each newly inducted laureate.
The Jimmy Maxwell Trio provided musical entertainment during the three-course dinner. A raffle featured a $3,000 Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry Gift Card.
Event at a Glance
What: “Business Hall of Fame Gala,” benefiting Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans, Inc.
When: Thursday, May 16
Where: Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Honorees Curtis A. Pellerin and Allen Square
Honorees James W. Pellerin and Dennis Lauscha
Honorees David Rubenstein and Barry Kern
Vincent Giardina, Lisa Romano and Honoree David Fennelly
Student Speaker Emily Panzavecchia, Master of Ceremony Anthony Jones and Student Speaker Lexi LeBlanc