Taking the Lead

On Oct. 14, more than 700 guests in black-tie attire gathered at the Sheraton Hotel for the Young Leadership Council and ABC26/CW38 Children First “Role Model Gala, ” themed “Celebrate New Orleans.”

This year marked an important milestone, because it was the YLC’s 20th gala. And the focus of the event—the honorees—remains the same. The YLC chose 21 people for their positive work for and affect on the community: Lauren Anderson, Manny F. Blanco, Jim Bridger, Lucianne Carmichael, Dr. Isidore Cohn Jr., Sharon P. Courtney, Mrs. John L. Eckholdt, Preston J. Edwards Sr., Jonathan Ferrara, Brad Grundmeyer, Les Hirsch, Dr. Kevin T. Jordan, Rachel Kincaid, Salvador Longoria, Laura Maloney, Yvonne Mitchell-Grubb, Chris Rose, Dr. Coller Ochsner, Mary Viola Von Kurnatowski, Carol Wise and Becky Zaheri. These names include writers, educators, artists, a gallery owner, attorneys, business owners, doctors and other medical professionals, among others.

The Young Leadership Council is a nonprofit and nonpartisan civic organization. It hopes to develop leadership through community projects and in the past 19 years, the group has raised more than $25 million for its causes via this event.

Taking the LeadRachel Kincaid, Preston J. Edwards Sr., event chair Amy Boyle and Manny F. Blanco

Taking the LeadJim Bridger, Yvonne Mitchell-Grubb and YLC executive director Gerald Duhon

Taking the LeadLee Reid, Laura Maloney and Chris Rose

Taking the LeadChris Reade, Salvador Longoria, Carol Wise and Brad Grundmeyer

Taking the LeadDr. Kevin Jordan, Lucianne Carmichael and Larry Delia

Taking the LeadDr. Isidore Cohn, Sharon Courtney and Jonathan Ferrara

Get Our Email Newsletters

The best in New Orleans dining, shopping, events and more delivered to your inbox.

Digital Sponsors

Become a MyNewOrleans.com sponsor ...

Give the gift of a subscription ... exclusive 50% off

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.

Give the Gift!

Save 50% on all our publications for an exclusive holiday special!

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.