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Contents
Autumn !0!6
3 Celebrations That Matter
LAGNIAPPE STAFF
JLNO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
4 TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Rolls into the Alario Center on November 14
Editor: Carol O’Connor
President: Shelby Wynne
Assistant Editors: Sherylann Bennett and Melissa Kenyon Chrjapin
President-Elect: LeeAnn Moss
5 Junior League of New Orleans: Making an Impact When It Matters Most 6 In Case You Missed It! 7 Calendar Corner 8 League Faces
On the Cover: President 2025-2026 Michelle Clarke Payne, President 2026-2027 Shelby Wynne, President-Elect LeeAnn Moss Photo by Delana Lynn Photography
Writers: Shaniece B. Bickham, Laura Germano, Bess Meeks, Jenilee Perrin
Secretary: Allie Olivier Treasurer: Margaret Saik Assistant Treasurer: Anne Kock Business Council Director: Emily Sandefer
Photographer: Delana Lynn Photography
Communications Council Director: Jenny Daniels
PUBLISHER STAFF
Membership Council Director: Nathalie Dillon
Art Director: Tiffani Amedeo Production Manager: Rosa Balaguer Production Designer: Ashley Bravata
Community Council Director: Diana Vasquez Planning & Development Council Director: Becca Wallace Ryan Ways & Means Council Director: Linsey Marriott Nominating Committee Chair: Amy Flower Sustaining Advisor to the Board: Holly Adkins Paczak
Chief Executive Officer: Todd Matherne
President's Message
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he story of the Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) has never been written by one woman. For over 100 years, it has been written by generations of women who believed they could leave our city stronger than they found it. They saw needs, embraced challenges, opened doors for one another and built an organization whose impact continues to shape New Orleans today. As I begin my year as President, I am honored to carry that legacy forward. Our 2026-2027 theme, In Service of Her, reflects a belief that has always defined this League: when women invest in one another, entire communities are transformed. “Her” is every woman whose future is brighter because another woman chose to lead. She is the member discovering her confidence, the mentor sharing her wisdom, the community partner creating opportunity, the mother building a brighter future for her family and the young girl who believes there is a place for her because someone made room. The Junior League of New Orleans has never been simply about service. It is about developing women who lead with courage, compassion and purpose, and whose leadership strengthens organizations, families and communities. As you read this issue of Lagniappe, I hope you see the extraordinary women behind our work and are reminded that the greatest legacy we can leave is not what we accomplish ourselves, but the opportunities we create for others. It is a privilege to serve alongside these women as we write JLNO’s next chapter. Shelby Wynne JLNO President, 2026-2027
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JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org
Photo by: Delana Lynn Photography
Celebrations That Matter
JLNO Marks 10 Years of Covenant House New Orleans !"#$%&'()*)#!+#!(*,%&-
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or the past 10 years, JLNO members have hosted on-site birthday parties for Covenant House New Orleans residents complete with decorations, activities and gifts. These celebrations serve as special moments that the residents can cherish for years to come. Covenant House New Orleans Executive Director Rheneisha Robertson shares that some of the children have never had a birthday party, so they look forward to the birthday celebrations every month, especially the Bingo game. “A lot of our children have experienced trauma and hardships. Covenant House is a space of safety, stability and structure,” says Rheneisha. “Coming in and seeing friendly faces and knowing that something has been planned around you has a lot of meaning for our young people.” Rheneisha explains that Covenant House New Orleans doesn't turn anyone away. “Thousands of hours of volunteerism have truly had a positive impact on our organization and our mission of serving youth with the services they need to thrive beyond their time with us,” Rheneisha says. Former JLNO President Christine Vinson served as Chair of the first Covenant House Committee and recalls when the decision was made to begin the partnership. The 2016-2017 JLNO Board of Directors participated in the 2016 Covenant House Sleep Out, and that same year that Covenant House applied for JLNO’s Community Assistance Fund Grant. The Board decided that the program would be a good fit for a Community Project instead of awarding funds that would only cover one year of birthday parties. “It’s an incredible partnership. This is a volunteer opportunity that definitely advances the well-being of women and children through life enrichment,” says Christine.
JLNO Active Member Catherine Rigby served on the Covenant House Committee for five years, from 2017-2022. “During my time on the committee, I saw the engagement from our JLNO members really take off. It has become a shift that fills really quickly,” says Catherine. “It is a joyful time at Covenant House. Being able to celebrate with the residents is just an incredible gift to us.” Catherine’s first year as Chair was during the COVID-19 pandemic. That didn’t stop the partnership, however. She recalls relying on creativity to get gifts, cake and ice cream to the residents during that time. In-person celebrations resumed in early 2021 with smaller parties and gift drop-offs. “I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve done in the League, but Covenant House just has a special place in my heart,” Catherine says. Current Covenant House Committee Chair Kenya K. Miles, likewise, feels deeply connected to the partnership. Now in her third year on the committee, Kenya shares, “Our goal is not just to celebrate and support the youth only during the season of giving or simply checking off boxes. Just as the Covenant House is committed to helping unhoused youth 24/7, we have a dedicated committee that is committed to strategically and purposefully planning a memorable experience to celebrate their life every month throughout the year.” During the 2025-2026 League year, nearly 400 youth attended the birthday celebrations and JLNO members distributed 86 birthday gifts. Kenya notes that the birthday parties could possibly be a defining moment in the lives of youth when they reflect on how someone celebrated their life with a tangible gift and a personalized, handwritten birthday card. “Over the last 10 years, JLNO as an organization has purposely and consistently celebrated the youth at Covenant House every month as they are transitioning from homelessness to a forever home,” says Kenya.
JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org
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Beep! Beep! Climb Aboard and Explore
TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Rolls into the Alario Center on November 1& !"#.)'(/))#0)11('
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he Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) event, TOUCH-ATRUCK®, presented by Ochsner Children’s, will bring big trucks, big smiles and big fun to the event’s new location, the Alario Center in Westwego, on Saturday, November 14, 2026! This family-favorite event invites attendees of all ages to climb aboard more than 30 vehicles, ranging from helicopters and fire engines to bulldozers, delivery trucks and police units. Children can also meet the professionals who use these machines to build, protect and serve Greater New Orleans. Since its launch in 2013, TOUCH-A-TRUCK® has served as a celebration of community, offering families a comfortable and inclusive environment for hands-on learning. The event began in a single airport hangar at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport with 800 attendees, and is now held in a major events center, drawing thousands to experience joy, wonder and learning. “It has been wonderful to watch TOUCH-A-TRUCK® blossom from an idea we were helping to develop into a beloved JLNO tradition that continues to grow and create memories for new generations of children throughout our community,” says 2013 Chair Amy Robertson. “The continual increase in attendance is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and the trust we’ve built with our community partners,” adds 2025 TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Chair Marcy Grant. “I believe the event will continue to grow and evolve, focusing more and more on innovative STEM programming that highlights the technical skills behind the vehicles.”
NEW VENUE IN 2026
To allow for continued growth and to provide an enhanced experience for guests, JLNO is excited to announce that TOUCH-A-TRUCK® is moving to the Alario Center in Westwego. “Moving to the Alario Center introduces a dedicated outdoor footprint alongside traditional indoor exhibition space, allowing for
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JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org
larger heavy machinery, first responder units and specialized utility vehicles,” says 2026 TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Chair Paige Kuhlmann Farrell. “Ultimately, this dual-zone layout enhances crowd flow and delivers a more dynamic, multi-environment experience for attendees.”
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND
Field Trip Friday, made possible through the generosity of Hard Hat Helper sponsors, will return on November 13, welcoming students from local underserved schools. This dedicated day is provided at no cost, welcoming children who may not otherwise have access to enrichment field trips. On Saturday, attendees have the option to arrive early before the crowds with VIP entry. In the afternoon, Sensory-Friendly Quiet Hour is from 2-3 PM, providing a calm, quiet environment for families who benefit from reduced sensory stimulation. TOUCH-A-TRUCK® Birthday Packages are also available that include a private celebration with a reserved party space, decorations and cleanup.
MORE THAN JUST FUN
TOUCH-A-TRUCK® is more than just a fun event for families; it is JLNO’s largest fundraiser, supporting the organization’s longstanding initiatives in women's health, education and economic opportunities. “Proceeds directly fund vital JLNO community projects, including the JLNO Diaper Bank and Period Poverty initiatives,” explains JLNO Ways & Means Council Director Linsey Normand Marriott. “Planning and executing the event also provides JLNO members with valuable hands-on training in leadership, logistics and project management.” Gather your crew and get ready to explore, honk and play at TOUCHA-TRUCK® 2026! Details, tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at jlno.org/touch-a-truck.
Junior League of New Orleans: Making an Impact When It Matters Most !"#/&21)1-&'4
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he Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) has served the Greater New Orleans community since its founding in 1924, especially during times of crisis. Recognizing the ongoing need for essential supplies, JLNO established the JLNO Diaper Bank in 2014. Since then, the JLNO Diaper Bank has distributed more than 10 million diapers, period products and adult incontinence products, becoming a vital resource for both everyday needs and disaster response.
ANSWERING THE CALL.
The JLNO Diaper Bank sprang into action during the historic 2016 South Louisiana floods, when more than 60,000 homes were damaged or destroyed and 56 of Louisiana’s 64 parishes received federal disaster declarations. JLNO quickly mobilized, collecting donations from local supporters and Junior Leagues nationwide. In just one week, volunteers organized and shipped a full 18-wheeler of supplies, distributing 334,000 diapers, 176,000 baby wipes, 53,000 period products, $16,000 in gift cards and 1,000 pounds of red beans. Reflecting on the experience, then-Diaper Bank Chair Meredith Beers says, “Without the Junior League community, we wouldn’t have had the response that we did.” That response established the JLNO Diaper Bank as a vital disaster relief resource and paved the way for future efforts. “This showed us where we could evolve and grow the Diaper Bank, because during crises, people need consumables,” adds Meredith.
THE NEED CONTINUES.
The following year, the JLNO Diaper Bank provided essential aid after Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria. JLNO distributed 185,000 diapers, 166,000 baby wipes and 49,000 period products to affected communities in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico.
WHEN IT MATTERS MOST.
Following the devastating July 2025 Texas flash floods, JLNO raised over $15,000, partnering with Junior Leagues in Austin and San Antonio to assist impacted communities. Junior League of San Antonio President Crystal Fuller shares that JLNO’s support, “met critical needs during a time of crisis, but more importantly, it reminded us of the beauty and power of our shared mission.” Junior League of Austin President Sara Gutierrez echoed Crystal’s appreciation, “When the Texas floods hit our community, the Junior League of New Orleans didn’t hesitate to stand with us. It was a powerful reminder that the Junior League network shows up for each other when it matters most.” From the Louisiana floods to the recent disasters in Texas, the Junior League of New Orleans proves that communities recover faster when neighbors are prepared to help one another. As disasters continue to affect communities across the country, the work of JLNO remains as important as ever. Those who wish to support the JLNO Diaper Bank can make a monetary donation or contribute essential supplies by visiting www.jlno.org/diaperbank. Together with the community, JLNO continues to build stronger networks, both during everyday hardships and when disaster strikes.
JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org
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In Case You Missed It! !"#!)$$#-)),$
A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS: PASSING OF THE GAVEL
Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) members gathered on May 19, 2026 to engage in a favorite League tradition: Passing of the Gavel. This tradition honors past JLNO leaders and Presidents as members mark the end of one League year and open the door to the next group of leaders. JLNO’s own Alice Glenn was celebrated as she completed her term as President of the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI). Volunteer of the Year was awarded to Catherine Rigby for her dedicated service. A new recognition, New Member Volunteer of the Year, was awarded to Ashley Gri!ith for her outstanding volunteer hours during her first year as a JLNO member. Following tradition, past JLNO Presidents gathered in front of the stage at Headquarters to introduce themselves and pass the gavel from one President to the next, culminating in its presentation to 2026-2027 JLNO President, Shelby Wynne. League Treasurer, Margaret Saik remarks, “I love the tradition of the physical passing of the gavel to end one League year and start the next one!” Many toasts were made, hugs were given and even a few happy tears shed. Leaders of JLNO will continue to inspire, empower and serve the women of Greater New Orleans for many years to come.
SCHOLARSHIPS THAT SHAPE THE FUTURE
Amidst the excitement of Passing of the Gavel, the Scholarship Committee announced award recipients for the 2025-2026 League year. The 2026 Scholarship recipients are Kierra Hickerson, Kristie Irving and Christian Williams. Kierra Hickerson is a criminal justice graduate and former Innocence Project intern. She heads to law school at Southern University Center to pursue a degree in criminal defense. Kristie Irving is a Nurse Tech at University Medical Center finishing her BSN at Dillard University. A working mom of two, she will be the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree, and she has plans to continue on to graduate school. Christian Williams is a biology graduate pursuing patent law. She plans to advocate for individuals and businesses protecting their intellectual property and economic interests. Congratulations to these incredible women!
NEW ORLEANS CITYBUSINESS EMPOWERING WOMEN AWARD
The Junior League of New Orleans was named a 2026 New Orleans CityBusiness Empowering Women honoree, recognizing JLNO’s commitment to advancing women’s leadership and creating opportunities for women to grow, lead and make a meaningful impact. The Empowering Women Award recognizes companies and organizations that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to advancing women in the workplace and throughout the community.
ED COMER SERVICE AWARD
JLNO was honored by Covenant House New Orleans with the 2026 Ed Comer Service Award in recognition of the League’s longstanding service and commitment to Covenant House youth. Established in honor of longtime volunteer “Mr. Ed” Comer, the award recognizes individuals, families and organizations whose extraordinary service and commitment advance the Covenant House mission.
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JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org
Calendar Corner
October 3, 2026 JLNO Headquarters: 4319 Carondelet Street
October 11 and 18, 2026 JLNO Headquarters: 4319 Carondelet Street
November 14, 2026 NEW LOCATION! Alario Center
WE Fellowship Applications Open
December 3 - Preview Party December 4 - Market Ursuline Academy of New Orleans: 2635 State Street, New Orleans, LA 70118
Scholarship Applications Open
November 15, 2026 - January 15, 2027
December 5, 2026 - January 29, 2027
JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org
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League Faces
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JLNO members distribute backpacks and uniforms at the Love Your Neighbor NOLA Back to School Bash on July 25.
Past JLNO Presidents Holly Adkins Paczak, Ashley Llewellyn, Tara Waldron and Michelle Clarke Payne reunite at Passing of the Gavel on May 19.
New members, active members and sustainers come together for the first Third Thursday of the League year, an evening of mahjong on June 18.
New members and active members work together to wrap diapers at the JLNO Diaper Bank on August 13.
New members and new member advisors gather for co!ee and conversation at Café Du Monde in City Park on July 13.
JLNO members enjoy an evening on the rooftop terrace of Charles & Julia on July 30.
JLNO Lagniappe Autumn 2026 | jlno.org