Summer 2024 Contents
LAGNIAPPE STAFF
Editor
Kate Uhle
Assistant Editor
Kylie June Tahana
Writers
Taymika Sharrieff, Charlene Moreau Hazen
Photographers
Delana Lynn Photography, LeeAnn Moss, Allison Shapiro Dandry
PUBLISHER STAFF
Art Director
Ali Sullivan
Production Manager
On the Cover:
WE Fellowship winner and owner of Lagniappe Baking, Kaitlin Guerin, stands in front of her soon to be Bakehouse on Euterpe Street.
Rosa Balaguer
Production Designers
Ashley Pemberton, Czarlyn Ria Trinidad
Chief Executive Officer
Todd Matherne
2023-24 President's Farewell
As the 100 th year of the Junior League of New Orleans comes to a close , it is exciting to reflect upon the year and celebrate the contributions of our members and community partners Our “Year in Review” on page 8 provides a snapshot of this year’s activities and there are two items of specific importance In May, we were delighted to host The Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) here in New Orleans for its Annual Conference . Delegates from across the United States and beyond came to our city for a dynamic learning and networking experience At the conference , the Junior League of New Orleans was awarded the 2024 AJLI Community Impact Award for our JLNO Diaper Bank . This award highlights the efforts of JLNO members throughout the now 10- year history of our efforts to fill the gap for those in our community who do not have access to the essential products of diapers , period supplies and adult incontinence products
Our theme of reintroduce , reengage and reimagine has resounded throughout the year During this League year, we have reimagined our organization , focusing on our why, our how, and our impact Our partnership with Gambel Communications opened avenues for sharing our mission to “advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action , collaboration , and training” with new audiences through interviews , opinion editorials and advertisements
JLNO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Ashley Cangelosi Llewellyn
President-Elect Tara Waldron
Secretary Kelly Rauser
Treasurer Trish Thibodeau
Assistant Treasurer Paige Farrell
Business Council Director Robin Carubba
Communications Council Director
Allison Shapiro Dandry
Community Council Director Rachel Robinson
Membership Council Director Hope Clay
Planning & Development Council Director
Blair Broussard
Ways & Means Council Director Sarah Howard
Nominating Committee Chair Dale Ellen O'Neil
Sustaining Advisor to the Board Kristen Koppel
During these engagements , we were able to share examples of how our volunteer- led , staff supported organization lives out it’s mission through our fundraisers , programs , training events , and community projects
The work of reimagination continues as our strategic planning process remains underway, we prepare for the forthcoming release of “The 100 th Anniversary Junior League Report on the Status of Women in New Orleans” study and we consider the priorities for the second decade of our JLNO Diaper Bank efforts
Our Centennial celebrations will also continue throughout 2024 as the League steps boldly into its second century of service I am excited for the future of JLNO and believe our best days are still yet to come
Together, we remain women leading for a greater New Orleans , deeply committed to advancing the wellbeing of women
In service , Ashley Cangelosi Llewellyn President , 2023-2024
Photo by: Delana Lynn Photography
Engagement & Growth
Powered by the Women’s Leadership Summit
The Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) recently hosted its eagerly awaited Women’s Leadership Summit, bringing together an impressive array of professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for a day filled with inspiration, education, and networking. The event took place on Friday, March 8th, in celebration of International Women’s Day, at the Marriott Arts District hotel.
The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including industry leaders, motivational speakers, and subject matter experts who shared their insights on a range of topics. These included launching a small business, taking up space as women, trailblazers in the legal field, community conservation and personal growth sessions.
Keynote speaker Lelia Gowland delivered an empowering speech. Known for her work in professional development, Lelia is an author, speaker and consultant who focuses on women in the workplace. She leverages her expertise in communication, negotiation and gender dynamics to help individuals and organizations foster more inclusive and supportive environments.
Interactive workshops offered attendees practical skills and strategies to apply in their careers and personal lives. Sessions on crafting a compelling elevator pitch and prioritizing self-care were particularly wellreceived, providing participants with tangible takeaways.
WLS also provided valuable networking opportunities, enabling women from various industries to connect, share experiences and build supportive professional relationships. Attendee Molly Sanchez stated, “I’ve really enjoyed myself and the opportunity to meet other professional women in the New Orleans area; I look forward to attending next year.” This atmosphere of collaboration and mutual encouragement underscored JLNO’s mission to develop women’s potential and improve communities through effective action and leadership.
As the summit concluded, participants left with renewed motivation and a stronger sense of community, ready to apply their newfound knowledge and connections to their professional and personal endeavors. The JLNO Women’s Leadership Summit once again proved to be a cornerstone event, inspiring women to lead with confidence and purpose.
Enhancing the Wellbeing of Women
with the JLNO Community Assistance Fund (CAF)
The Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) runs a vital initiative called the Community Assistance Fund (CAF), which provides financial aid to nonprofit organizations dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of women in the New Orleans area . This program aligns with JLNO’s mission to empower women and enhance community life through volunteer efforts and targeted financial support.
The CAF offers grants of up to $20,000 to nonprofits working in areas such as economic opportunity, physical and mental health and family assistance. These grants are awarded annually following a rigorous application and review process Eligible nonprofits must demonstrate a clear need for funding and a commitment to significantly impacting women’s lives
These grants highlight JLNO’s commitment to creating a supportive community where women can thrive Nonprofits interested in applying for the next funding cycle can anticipate the application process opening in summer 2024. More information on eligibility and the application process is available under Community Assistance Fund at jlno org/community
Recent recipients of CAF grants showcase the diverse and impactful projects supported by JLNO :
• The St Thomas Community Health Center received $15,850 to purchase a colposcopy machine and other essential equipment for cancer screenings for patients with abnormal pap smear results
• The New Orleans Women and Children’s Shelter received $7,150 to provide comprehensive services for female - led families affected by homelessness , ensuring continued access to support after moving out
• The Bright School for the Deaf was awarded $5,000 for tuition assistance to four single - mother families with children with hearing loss from infancy to age five
• Emergency Legal Responders received $7,500 for their disaster preparedness and prevention program , equipping women with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves and their families during legal emergencies caused by disasters
• STEM Heads , a female - founded K-12 STEM program , received $13,300 to fund summer activities and career programs for kids in New Orleans East .
• Teresa Talks was granted $1,200 for their monthly empowerment sessions , immersive retreats and outreach programs to women’s shelters and girls’ homes
Junior League of New Orleans 2024-2025 Board of Directors
Presenting our Board of Directors for the 2024-2025 League Year
Michelle Clarke Payne President-Elect
Melissa Nunn Secretary
Paige Farrell Treasurer
Tara Waldron President
Genevieve Anderson Assistant Treasurer
Shelby Wynne Business Council Director
Erica Washington Nominating Chair
Carol O’Connor Communications Council Director
LeeAnn Moss Planning & Development Council Director
Catherine Rigby Community Council Director
Christine Rigamer Ways & Means Council Director
Tabitha Mangano Membership Council Director
Brandy Whisnant Sustaining Advisor to the Board
JLNO Spotlights Women Entrepreneurs at 8 th Annual Pitch Competition
On Thursday, April 11th, 2024, the Junior League of New Orleans welcomed finalists, judges and guests to its headquarters for the 8th annual Women Entrepreneur Fellowship Competition Started in 2016, WE Fellowship supports a female business owner with funding, mentorship, business coaching, tuition to the JLNO Get On Board nonprofit board training program, and membership dues should they choose to join the Junior League of New Orleans An invitation to participate in the Pitch Competition was extended to a list of five finalists and was based on criteria such as impact in community, sourcing locally, uniqueness of business, giveback to community, preparedness of business model, and proposed use of funds awarded The competition culminated in the final pitch competition
This year’s event held at JLNO headquarters exceeded attendance expectations and was standing room only The event's focus was on engaging WE Fellowship alumni of years past, and doubling down on the legacy of support for the past finalists and winners Past finalist, Greybird Baking, provided macarons and cookies Past winner Windowsill Pies provided a variety of tarts Decor was provided by a female-owned business, Balloon Float Nola Three past finalists (Saint Hugh, 2017; Water Block Kids, 2020; Bomb Ass Fro, 2022) also showcased and sold products at tables throughout the venue Last year’s winner Tamara White, owner of Pillar Homecare, was the 2024 keynote speaker, and shared the impact of this award and the benefit of the League’s investment in her business. Event Chair Diana Vasquez says the event was an opportunity to let the League’s core values shine: “The League’s mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. In our WE Fellowship criteria, we seek out entrepreneurs who hire locally, source products locally, and give back to their community Our goal for this year's event was to embody our mission and lead by example. From the catering choices, which were all local and woman-owned, to the presence of past WE winners every detail of the event was intentional and focused on relationship building."
This year’s judges represented a broad range of stakeholders in the business community of New Orleans They included Dr Carla Antoine of the Urban League of Louisiana, Rosalind Butler, Director of EDI at Tulane School of Business, Joneé Daigle- Ferrand of Inside New Orleans Magazine, Chris Ferris President & CEO of Fidelity Bank, NOLA Lending Group, and Kati Morse LeBreton, VP & Director of P O W E R Fidelity Bank
The lineup of finalists were equally impressive. Though the businesses were diverse in their offerings, all shared a common theme of a desire to create com-
munity or experiences that empower others This year’s finalists were aKrewe, Feels, Kinkz Hair Products, Lagniappe Baking and The Pretty Chemist. aKrewe Nola Consulting , owned by Kristen Dufauchard is a corporate marketing , event planning & training firm that helps brands build community aKrewe is the creator of The Business Exchange, a networking platform that “convenes diverse professionals, entrepreneurs and multi-hyphenates through curated events to foster idea exchange, build community and achieve success
Feels, owned by Caitlin Knoepp is a digital gifting platform enabling companies to fund donations, letting their customers, employees and prospects choose from over 1.5 million charities Their mission is to make “giving back the perfect corporate gift ”
Kinkz Hair Products, owned by Alana Scott, began as a passion project and is dedicated to assisting women on their journey to embracing their natural hair while also regaining their confidence
Lagniappe Baking is owned by Kaitlin Guerin. This independent bakehouse pop -up aims to provide an elegant and nostalgic pastry experience that celebrates the South through local, seasonal ingredients and community
The Pretty Chemist, owned by Robyn Smith is a formulation consulting and manufacturing company with a passion for creating natural hair and skincare products They provide consultation, private labeling and product manufacturing services
Each finalist gave a 10-minute pitch to the panel of judges, followed by an opportunity for questions and answers After presentations wrapped up, attendees voted on an audience favorite Robyn Smith of The Pretty Chemist was awarded that honor, receiving a prize of a facial from Audubon Facial Plastics and a gift basket courtesy of Fidelity P O W E R Finally, the long-awaited moment: WE Fellowship event chair Diana Vasquez announced the winner of the 2024 JLNO Women’s Entrepreneur Fellowship, Lagniappe Baking Owner and winner Kaitlin Guerin was presented a check by JLNO President Ashley Llewellyn and JLNO Community Council Director Rachel Robinson
The owner of Lagniappe Baking, Kaitlin Guerin, will be using her prize money to support her upcoming brick-and-mortar storefront in Central City, opening this summer! After a career in dance took her to New York and California, she switched gears in 2018 to study baking and pastry arts at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in California’s wine country Lagniappe Baking works with more than a dozen local farmers to source all of the grains, fruit and dairy that go into their breads and pastries
JLNO thanks Fidelity P O W E R and Trepwise for their sponsorship and support of the WE Fellowship program
Committee members share congratulations – and a check! - with 2024 WE Fellowship winner, Kaitlin Guerin
WE Fellowship finalists (L-R) Caitlin Knoepp (Feels), Kaitlin Guerin (Lagniappe Baking), Alana Scott (Kinkz), Kristen Dufauchard (aKrewe), Robyn Smith (Pretty Chemist)
League Faces
Against
New members and actives gathered together for Placement Fest, an event allowing members to explore and ask questions about the many service opportunities offered by JLNO in the upcoming year." Photo by Delana Lynn Photography
At the May General Membership Meeting, 23-24 Community Council Director, Hope Clay, presents Lindsay Chapman with her certificate of Sustainer Membership for dedicating years of active service within the League Photo by Delana Lynn Photography
JLNO receives the Community Impact Award for the JLNO Diaper Bank at the 2024 Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) Annual Conference, hosted in New Orleans Photo courtesy of AJLI
(L-R) Jeanne Charlebois, Karen Boudreaux and Joanna Sternberg gather with other JLNO Sustainers and friends at the home of Virginia Weinmann for our annual Mint Julep event to celebrate the JLNO 2024 Sustainer of the Year, Kathy Eastman
Photo by Allie Shapiro Dandry
Senji White , Erin Cooper and a new friend gathered on the porch of the Park View Historic Hotel where current and prospective JLNO members gathered for drinks at the Gilded Perch for our monthly Front Porch Friday event - which happened to be on a Wednesday! Photo by LeeAnn Moss
the incredible backdrop of the Orpheum Theater, past and present JLNO members , friends and family gathered for the historic centennial celebration of the Junior League of New Orleans advancing the wellbeing of women and serving our New Orleans Community for 100 years Photo by Delana Lynn Photography
Joined Junior Leagues from across the nation in participating in AJLI’s inaugural “Find the Good Day” in September
We celebrate that over this year we have...
Distributed $50,000 dollars in Community Assistance Funds to six local nonprofits
Partnered with over 80 nonprofits
Trained 163 students in Safe Sitter® curriculum
Provided holiday gifts to 119 Educare students
Offered over 45 training opportunities
Had 92 JLNO charity runners for the Crescent City Classic
Had 30 vendors for our annual Holly Jolly Marketplace
Distributed over 568,455 diapers to twenty- one partners
Distributed over 170,400 period supplies to twenty-one partners
Our Scholarship Opportunity distributed $10,000 to 4 local female students completing post-secondary programs
Invested in our learning and leadership experiences by engaging in over 3,200 training hours
Hosted over 200 attendees at our Women’s Leadership Summit on International Women’s Day
Trained 53 participants for meaningful board participation through our Get on Board program
Hosted over 1,500 attendees for TOUCH -A-TRUCK® and over 900 students for Field Trip Friday
Provided approximately 15,000 volunteer hours to our community
Offered over 60 unique volunteer opportunities to our members
Distributed 16,835 adult incontinence products to thirteen partners
Facilitated and launched the rebrand of the JLNO Diaper Bank with our three product lines all under one cohesive name and look.
Launched our Preferred Partners program and welcomed The Times-Picayune | nola com as a Platinum Partner and Aetna and Sparkle & Swag as Silver Partners.
Successfully launched an Annual Giving campaign: Past, Present, Future Leading Women
Received the 2024 AJLI Community Impact Award for the JLNO Diaper Bank.
Hosted The Association of Junior Leagues International Annual Conference in New Orleans in May 2024.
Celebrating a ofcentury service
On March 31, 2024 the Junior League of New Orleans celebrated its 100th birthday. Our yearlong centennial celebration has just begun and we have curated memorable experiences and opportunities for our membership and the community to be a part of the celebration.
In Fall 2023, JLNO announced our gift to the community of a funded study through the Newcomb Research Institute at Tulane University on the “Status of Women in New Orleans”. The initial data findings were shared at our Women’s Leadership Summit held on March 8, 2024.
In October, the JLNO membership voted to Amend and Restate the Charter of the Junior League of New Orleans Our original Charter was issued for a duration of 99 years and this historic membership vote established the Corporation in perpetuity.
During our Centennial year, the Junior League of New Orleans will award a total of $100,000 in Community Assistance Fund grants to nonprofit organizations in the greater New Orleans region The first $50,000 was awarded at our May General Membership Meeting.
On May 31, we hosted an evening of dining and dancing at our Centennial Gala celebrating the remarkable 100 year journey of the Junior League of New Orleans.