LAW
LAW
MICHAEL WALSHE
JAMES WILLIAMS
SHARONDA WILLIAMS
Member Stone Pigman Walther Wittmann
Partner Chehardy Sherman Williams
General Counsel and Director of Government Affairs Loyola University New Orleans
Among his many accomplishments, Walshe has successfully represented clients in anti-counterfeiting lawsuits, copyright disputes, defamation claims and bankruptcy proceedings. Drawing on his deep knowledge of the Louisiana legal system, he’s counseled clients ranging from the National Football League to national restaurant chains and major insurance companies.
Williams is an accomplished trial attorney — and former state judge — who has litigated cases in 15 different states and overseas. In 2012, he was lead counsel for Louisiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Bernette Johnson in a civil rights lawsuit. He has also represented former U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu and Orleans Parish Sheriff Marlin Gusman in high-profile cases.
A recipient of numerous honors from the National Bar Association, Williams previously served as city attorney under former Mayor Mitch Landrieu’s administration. She returned to her alma mater in 2021 to handle contract reviews, employment disputes and other legal matters. She donates her time to Bridge House/Grace House and other community organizations.
Education: Louisiana State University (JD), University of Mississippi (BA) Go-to Restaurant: Galatoire’s Hobby: Clothing Advice: “Don’t take yourself too seriously.” On the Horizon: “We have a great group of new, young lawyers that have joined the firm.” Hidden Gem: Ristorante Filippo
Education: Washington and Lee University (JD), Louisiana State University (BS) King James: Williams is the youngest person to ever reign as King of the Krewe of Louisianians’ Washington Mardi Gras. Volunteering: Williams coaches Little League basketball and is a Sunday School teacher at Tulane Memorial Baptist Church.
Education: Loyola University New Orleans (JD), Xavier University of Louisiana (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Clancy’s Hidden Gem: Dos Jefes Uptown Cigar Bar Advice: “When people show you who they are, believe them the first time.” — Maya Angelou On the Horizon: “Excited to be on the Port NOLA board helping with some of their projects.”
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
EURICKA ALUGAS
JOSEPH ATIYEH
LINELE BARROW
CEO Safe Kit
President Bemana
President and CEO DRC Staffing Group
Alugas created her safety staffing and training company to help businesses update and refine their safety rules, regulations and permits. Among Safe Kit’s offerings are CPR training, bilingual training, drug testing and contractor safety program revisions. Clients include the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Entergy and the City of New Orleans.
Working with his wife Linn, Atiyeh leads development and growth initiatives while servicing key clients at this Metairie-based recruiting firm specializing in the equipment and industrial sectors. He practiced law for five years before joining the company. “We just tripled the size of our last office space,” he said. “We’ll be adding talent to our team as we [aim] to become an anchor employer.”
After a 16-year accounting career, Barrow discovered the staffing industry out of necessity when she was laid off and had to use a staffing agency herself. After a few unsatisfying assignments, she decided to start her own company to focus more on the candidate to help them align with clients who are better suited to their skills, talents, and goals.
Education: Dillard University (BA) Best Fest: Lundi Gras and Nola Brass Fest Inspiration: “Gayle Benson took her organization to the next level through her philanthropy and exquisite class. She is the perfect role model for any woman trying to do business in a maledominated industry.” Hidden Gem: Streetcar Cafe
Education: Loyola University of New Orleans (JD, BS) Go-to Restaurant: Brigtsen’s Hobby: “We’re a sports family. My wife, Linn, played golf at Tulane, I played baseball at Loyola and our three kids love competing as well. We coach most of their teams and love teeing up together on the golf course as a family.”
Education: Southern University New Orleans (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Cafe Sbisa Best Fest: French Quarter Festival Nonprofit Cause: Habitat for Humanity Hidden Gem: Polo Club Lounge in the Windsor Court Advice: “Never, never, never give up on your dreams.”
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