The “Business Hall of Fame Gala” recognized six local businessmen and women who have made significant contributions to the community and to the success of their professions.
To begin the evening, 25 attending members of the Business Hall of Fame were introduced in procession style by class year.
The 2018 Laureates honored were: Ray Brandt, CEO, Ray Brandt Auto Group with wife, Jessica Brandt; Adolph Bynum Sr., Co-Owner, Bynum Pharmacies and Co-Owner, Doby Properties, LLC with wife, Naydja Bynum; Michelle Gobert, Owner, Image360 with husband, Norm Gobert; and Matthew Schwartz and Chris Papamichael, Principals, The Domain Companies with wives Crista Schwartz and Lori Papamichael.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was awarded to honoree Phyllis M. Taylor, CEO, Endeavor Enterprises L.L.C., Chairman and CEO, Taylor Energy Company LLC and Chairman and President, Patrick F. Taylor Foundation.
Each honoree was featured in a special video tribute and introduced by a fellow Hall of Fame Laureate, also on video.
Patrons were treated to a refreshing three-course dinner capped with seasonal strawberry shortcake while enjoying music provided by pianist Phillip Melancon.
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: Wednesday, May 9
Where: The Ritz-Carlton
Larry Washington, Seth St. Martin and Lifetime Achievement Award Honoree Phyllis Taylor
2018 Honoree Ray Brandt, Past Honoree Roger Ogden and 2018 Honorees Chris Papamichael and Matthew Schwartz
Past Honorees Jose Suquet and Paul Flower
Katharine Kay, Past Honoree Warner Thomas and Diedra Dias
Kevin Ericksen, Laurie Young and Chad Berg