The NOLA Walk of Fame Unveils Engraved Fleur de lis to Honor New Orleans' Distinguished Contributors

November 1, 2024 | From City of New Orleans

The NOLA Walk of Fame Unveils Engraved Fleur-de-lis to Honor New Orleans' Distinguished Contributors

The City of New Orleans announced the launch of the NOLA Walk of Fame, a new 501(c)(3) organization aimed at preserving and promoting New Orleans' dynamic history by honoring its most influential figures.

NOLA Walk of Fame's goal is to create a landmark celebrating the enduring spirit and contributions of New Orleans' most distinguished natives. The project honors distinguished figures in entertainment, business, sports, politics, arts and other sectors. This includes renowned celebrities, visionary entrepreneurs and influential thinkers, who have left a lasting impact on the City of New Orleans, as well as the world.

"As we continue preparations to host Super Bowl LIX, it is of huge importance that we honor and recognize the diverse group of notable individuals who make up the beautiful fabric of our city," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. "Their global influence is a source of pride for our community and a testament to the city's reach on the world stage. Thank you to the city's entertainment ambassador, Percy 'Master P' Miller, the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, Operation Restoration and all other partners for helping embrace our culture and ensuring a bright future for our city and its cultural heritage."

The NOLA Walk of Fame will be located at the end of Canal Street along the Mississippi River, attracting over 7 million locals and visitors annually. A custom engraved Fleur-de-lis will be permanently installed, serving as a symbol of honor and remembrance for each inductee.

A key component of the project is the development of an educational curriculum for New Orleans youth, including mentorship and internship programs designed to enhance their learning experience and instill a sense of pride in the city's rich cultural heritage. Other key components include the creation of a museum that offers a deeper insight into the city's rich history, as well as a documentary that captures inductees' legacies and impact on the local community.

Partnerships for the NOLA Walk of Fame include the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, as well as Operation Restoration, who serves as a fiscal sponsor.

"At Operation Restoration, our work is rooted in our commitment to creating pathways to success through education and fostering deep connections with the communities we support, prioritizing impact over profit," said Syrita Steib, founder, president and CEO of Operation Restoration. "We are proud to serve as the fiscal sponsor for the NOLA Walk of Fame and its goal to not only preserve and promote the city's dynamic history but also foster improved educational learning and expand community engagement."

Leading the NOLA Walk of Fame initiative is Percy Miller and the NOLA Walk of Fame Committee, a dedicated group of individuals committed to celebrating the enduring spirit and contributions of New Orleans' most distinguished natives.