Local Leaders Shaping the Visitor Experience
New Orleans & Company is the destination marketing organization for the city of New Orleans, dedicated to promoting the region’s cultural, economic, and community vitality through tourism. We tell the story of New Orleans by showcasing the real people who create unforgettable visitor experiences. These are just a few of the many faces behind the hospitality, history, and heart that define our city.
In this video, we spotlight local leaders and professionals who embody the spirit of New Orleans hospitality. Their stories highlight the personal pride, cultural expertise, and service excellence that make our city unlike any other.

Lenora Chong
Owner, Morrow Restaurant Group
Lenora Chong is a driving force behind the Morrow Restaurant Group, known for fusing elevated dining experiences with authentic cultural flair. Her leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have helped create standout restaurants that attract both locals and tourists. By investing in stylish, welcoming spaces and high-quality cuisine, Lenora supports culinary tourism while creating jobs and showcasing New Orleans’ diverse food scene.

Branden Lewis
Musician, Preservation Hall Jazz Band
A proud native of New Orleans, Branden Lewis carries on the legacy of traditional jazz through his powerful trumpet performances with the world-renowned Preservation Hall Jazz Band. By performing for audiences from around the globe, Branden is an ambassador for New Orleans music and culture, helping to preserve its legacy and ensure that live jazz remains a cornerstone of the city’s tourism experience.

Benita Scott
Founder, Island of Algiers Tours
Benita Scott brings the lesser-known stories of New Orleans’ West Bank to life through Island of Algiers Tours. Her guided experiences highlight the historic and cultural richness of Algiers, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the city’s neighborhoods beyond the French Quarter. Benita’s storytelling supports heritage tourism and expands the narrative of what makes New Orleans unique.

Patrick Brumfield
Creative Director & Partner, Encore Entertainment
Patrick Brumfield leads creative direction at Encore Entertainment, where he designs immersive events that reflect the spirit of New Orleans. His work supports the city’s tourism and hospitality industry by producing unforgettable experiences for conventions, corporate events, and celebrations that bring people—and business—to New Orleans.

David Piscola
General Manager, Hilton New Orleans Riverside
With decades of leadership in the hospitality sector, David Piscola oversees operations at one of the largest hotels in the city. His management ensures a consistently excellent guest experience, which directly contributes to New Orleans’ status as a top travel destination. He also plays a key role in fostering hospitality careers and developing talent within the industry.

Dan Krall
Owner, Downtown Fabworks
Dan Krall merges creativity and craftsmanship through Downtown Fabworks, a custom fabrication shop that builds immersive brand experiences and dynamic event environments. His work supports the tourism and hospitality ecosystem by enhancing visual storytelling for local businesses, festivals, and events, making New Orleans more engaging and visually captivating for visitors.
Join the Community that Builds our Culture
New Orleans & Company’s membership program invites local businesses and individuals to be part of our collective success. Members gain access to promotional tools, strategic partnerships, visitor insights, and industry events—all designed to strengthen the role of tourism in sustaining the New Orleans economy. If you’re ready to make an impact and support the people who make New Orleans special, we welcome you to join us.