A Night to Remember: Junior Achievement’s 2025 Business Hall of Fame
This year’s Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame, held on Thursday, May 22 at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, was nothing short of extraordinary. Presented by the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust, the event marked a powerful celebration of leadership, legacy, and impact—making history in more ways than one. Not only did it honor a remarkable class of 2025 Laureates, but it also broke fundraising records in a year that holds profound significance: Junior Achievement of Greater New Orleans’ 70th anniversary and the milestone of reaching our one millionth student.
Since its inception in 1984, the Business Hall of Fame has served as one of the region’s most prestigious platforms for recognizing exemplary business leaders—individuals whose entrepreneurial vision and community commitment have shaped the economic landscape of Southeast Louisiana. This year’s Laureates embody that legacy with distinction:
Judy Barrasso, Founding Member, Barrasso Usdin Kupperman Freeman & Sarver, L.L.C.
Tommy Cvitanovich, Owner & General Manager, Drago’s Seafood Restaurant
Dr. Takeisha Davis, CEO & President, New Orleans East Hospital
Troy Henry, Founder & Managing Partner, Henry Consulting, LLC
Samir Mowad, Senior VP & General Manager, Caesars Entertainment, Inc.
The evening also honored William Henry Shane, Jr., Chairman of Favrot &; Shane Companies, with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and recognized Canal Barge Co., Inc. as the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Business of the Year.
This record-breaking event was not only a tribute to these outstanding leaders but a vital catalyst for Junior Achievement’s mission: to prepare young people for economic success through hands-on education in financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness. Every dollar raised supports this mission and helps ensure that future generations have the tools, mentorship, and inspiration they need to thrive.
We’re especially proud of Trust Your Crazy Ideas Challenge student Madison Hatch, a junior at Chalmette High School, who shared with attendees how her JA experience has shaped her confidence and entrepreneurial growth—reminding us why we invest in the next generation.
As we reflect on 70 years of impact—and one million students served—this year’s Hall of Fame was a fitting tribute to those who are building a stronger, more equitable future for all.
It’s a pleasure to share this short video of Madison speaking at the event along with a recent interview with JA Board Member Kevin Ericksen, Senior Vice President at Hancock Whitney Bank, as he reflects on the impact he hopes his support of Junior Achievement will have on young people across our community.
Thank you to all of those in our community who made this such a successful and enjoyable evening!
