A Magical Evening at The Josephine: Celebrating the 20th Annual City Stars Soirée
On Thursday, November 13, 2025, Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans welcomed friends, supporters, and community leaders to a truly unforgettable evening at The Josephine, one of Uptown New Orleans’ newest and most breathtaking event spaces. Once a historic church and now beautifully transformed into an elegant venue, The Josephine offered the perfect backdrop for the 20th annual City Stars Soirée, a night dedicated to celebrating JA’s mission and honoring the remarkable young leaders named as this year’s Rising Star honorees.
From the moment guests stepped inside, The Josephine’s stunning architecture, warm lighting, and restored historic details set the tone for an extraordinary night. The fall air and clear skies made for flawless weather, adding to the magic of the evening as supporters arrived dressed in their best to celebrate JA’s mission and the inspiring accomplishments of our Rising Stars.
The event delivered everything guests have come to love about the City Stars Soirée, including a lively silent auction filled with exclusive experiences and treasured items, live music that energized the room and kept the celebration moving, and a vibrant, joyful atmosphere where corporate partners, alumni, educators, and supporters came together in support of Southeast Louisiana’s young people.
At the heart of the celebration were seven exceptional young leaders recognized as JA’s 2025 Rising Stars—individuals under 40 who demonstrate entrepreneurial excellence, strong ethical and moral leadership, and meaningful contributions to the economic vitality of our region.
This year’s Rising Star honorees are:
• Patrick Brennan – Congregation Coffee
• Zachary Carroll – Ark Animal Hospital
• Ruth Lawson – Jefferson Chamber
• Jean-Marc Pellerin – Pellerin Laundry Machinery Sales Company
• Sam Solomon – Bancroft Properties Investments, LLC
• Franziska Trautman and Max Steitz – Glass Half Full
These honorees represent the next generation of business leadership in Southeast Louisiana, demonstrating innovation, purpose, and a deep commitment to strengthening their communities.
A very special thank you goes to Neel Sue and Susco Solutions, whose generous support as the presenting sponsor made this milestone celebration possible. As a former Rising Star himself, Neel shared inspiring reflections from the stage, reminding guests of the power of mentorship, community, and believing boldly in young people.
Gratitude is also extended to our 2025 Event Chairs: Marti and Parke McEnery and Katherine and Richard Morales. Their leadership, creativity, and commitment shaped an extraordinary evening and ensured the continued success of the City Stars Soirée. We appreciate their generosity and the work of the entire event committee.
This year’s Soirée was an overwhelming success thanks to every guest, sponsor, donor, and volunteer who joined in celebration. Your support fuels JA’s mission to prepare the next generation with the financial literacy, workforce readiness, and entrepreneurial skills they need to thrive.