SRAI Loves New Orleans!
NOLA. Crescent City. The Big Easy. N’awlins. New Orleans is a city with so many identities. These monikers conjure up sights and sounds that are only found in this centuries-old city located on the Gulf Coast of Louisiana. This indomitable place has survived Mother Nature, economic hardship, and even a global pandemic. New Orleans is a city of survival.
As SRAI looks forward to its first on-site meeting in over a year, New Orleans will provide the perfect blend of cuisine, entertainment, and history. Expect to be dazzled by the choices and charms of this location! As Alabama/Mississippi Chapter President Amada Seymour describes, “There is not another place in the United States like NOLA. The culture and vibe of the city is something everyone should witness first-hand, at least once in their lives!”
New Orleans is…Food
Midwest Section member and SRAI Odyssey Chair Heather Kraus loves New Orleans “because of the amazing Cajun food.” But pick any cuisine and the odds are very likely you will find it in New Orleans. You may find some you were not even aware existed! With over 1000 restaurants, you are guaranteed to find something that tempts and delights! While the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted hardships on many of the businesses, including food and hospitality, signs of re-emergence are strong. Many restaurants are reporting fully reserved nights so make your choices and book your reservations early.
New Orleans is…Music
Alabama-Mississippi Chapter Past President Brandy Akers loves New Orleans for its “easy navigation and hearing music on the streets.” New Orleans has produced musical giants. Louis Armstrong, Allen Toussaint, Dr. John, Trombone Shorty, Big Freedia have all called New Orleans home. According to New Orleans official tourism website www.neworleans.com “you could spend almost three months in New Orleans and go to a different music club every night.” Live music can be heard at big venues like Presentation Hall and local spots in New Orleans like Mid-City, the Bywater and, of course, the world-famous French Quarter.
New Orleans is…Culture
Diverse history and traditions are part of the big mix that makes up New Orleans. Multiple influences from many nations and cultures have contributed to the magical atmosphere that makes us this special place. You can easily see international influence in events like Mardi Gras and in the various festivals like Zydeco and Jazz Fest. Northeast Section member Bill Hoffman loves New Orleans and acknowledges the city’s beautiful gardens, and such iconic sites as the French Quarter and Jackson Square. Look for Bill at the Café du Monde while you are in NOLA!
Laissez les bon temps rouler!
The 2021 Annual Meeting Co-Chairs look forward to seeing you in New Orleans. Take advantage of the variety of learning sessions, workshops and panels offered, connect with your old friends and make new ones, and complete a certificate during the meeting. Enjoy New Orleans by taking advantage of the area’s distinctive cuisine, abundant music scene, and rich history. Southern Section President Karen Bone will be visiting New Orleans for the first time during the 2021 Annual Meeting. Anticipating a great meeting, Karen said “I can tell New Orleans has a great vibe and will be an excellent place for SRAI members to celebrate returning to an in-person meeting.” We cannot agree more, Karen!
Learn more and register for the 2021 Annual Meeting today!
Authored by Gina Hedberg, Executive Director, Office of Sponsored Projects Administration
University of South Alabama
2021 SRAI Annual Meeting Co-chair
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