The New Orleans Entertainment Coalition was created in 2019 with the goal of fostering the arts and supporting local and regional artists. Sandra Thompson Herman, after retiring from 20 years in state government, wanted to continue her lifetime of service and philanthropy through a nonprofit based on her career in culture, recreation, and tourism, while also focusing on boosting the local economy. New Orleans Entertainment has since become Celebrate Canal.
In early 2024, Herman attended a meeting where the future of Canal Street was discussed. A suggestion was made that it would take a citizen-led initiative to make real progress on Canal Street. That sparked the idea for Celebrate Canal — a wide-ranging effort to address the major issues affecting one of the widest and most historic streets in the country and to bring families back to the storied street that was once a vibrant hub of culture and commerce. Through quarterly and monthly public meetings starting in May, Celebrate Canal will address key issues such as transportation and parking, public safety, retail, and placemaking (beautification).
Celebrate Canal will also sponsor events designed to draw families back to the area, starting with Windows on Canal, a series of outdoor art installations inspired by the city’s history. Similar to house floats, these installations will highlight the history of local businesses, the artists behind the designs, and a storyline that leads visitors from store to store with something interesting to see and enjoy at each stop. Windows on Canal is scheduled to launch in early April and aims to revive the old charm of historic Canal Street.
Sandra’s primary goal for Celebrate Canal is community engagement, emphasizing the need for collaboration in revitalizing Canal Street. With strong local support and an active board, she is confident that the initiative will successfully showcase New Orleans to the world.
“It is a privilege to give back to the City that has given so much to me. It will take all of us, working together, to make this work. I have no doubt that we can and will make Celebrate Canal a success,” says Sandra.
Herman takes great pride in Celebrate Canal’s board of directors, a dynamic group of accomplished women who are generously investing their time and energy into this important cause.
Last Book Read: Living A Beautiful Life by Alexandra Stoddard
Celebrity Doppelgänger: Susan Sarandon
Favorite Vacation Destination: Sedona, AZ
celebratecanal.com • New Orleans
