The DDD would like to congratulate the honorees for this year’s Downtown NOLA Awards for their exceptional contributions to the progress of Downtown New Orleans. Join us the evening of Thursday, September 26th as we celebrate the best of Downtown New Orleans at Generations Hall with a cocktail reception beginning at 5:30 PM and awards at 6:30 PM, followed by music, fun, and dancing.
Thank you for helping us shine a light on those who help make Downtown a remarkable experience!
2024 Honorees
AxoSim’s Lowry Curley
Lowry Curley, Ph.D., is a bioscience pioneer, whose visionary leadership and innovative approach have significantly advanced the biotechnology landscape in Downtown New Orleans. As Chief Scientific Office and co-founder of AxoSim, a leading firm tackling neurological disease and disorders, Dr. Curley has demonstrated exceptional commitment to scientific excellence, economic growth, and community development. His critical work and groundbreaking research have brought Downtown New Orleans to the forefront of biotech conversations on the national scale.
Dream House Lounge Owner, Dr. David Wallace
A true Downtown changemaker, Dr. David J. Wallace leads Baronne Street’s Dream House Lounge with care, inspiration, and intention. His curation of a comforting urban oasis and commitment to holistic wellbeing reflects Dr. Wallace’s respect for community and love for Downtown New Orleans; his presence in the District provides peace, mindfulness, and rejuvenation amidst an otherwise bustling and fast-paced environment. The renowned popularity of both Dream House Lounge and Dr. Wallace himself demonstrates the strength of his vision as an innovator and neighborhood leader.
Ferrara Showman Gallery Partner, Matthew Showman
Championing the Arts District for over a decade, Matthew Showman serves both Ferrara Showman Gallery and Arts District New Orleans with style, confidence, and finesse. His work producing signature DDD events, representing the City of New Orleans’ arts scene, and uplifting local organizations in their own endeavors reflects his passion for Downtown and its many artistic offerings. In 2024, Showman celebrated his ascension to partner at Ferrara Showman Gallery—a career milestone that captures the strength and reach of his career, success, and cultural impact, Downtown and beyond.
The Helis Foundation John Scott Center
Nestled in the heart of the Crescent City, The Helis Foundation John Scott Center stands as a beacon of creativity and community, embodying the spirit and legacy of the revered artist John Scott. As it approaches its 2nd-year anniversary this September, this remarkable cultural hub has swiftly become a cornerstone for artistic and intellectual exchange Downtown; its panels, workshops, and public events bring together New Orleanians to connect, inspire, and learn through unique and meaningful avenues.
The NOW Massage
The NOW Massage offers an oasis to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect within through the healing benefits of massage therapy. The serene sanctuary is celebrated for its thoughtfully crafted menu of services, healing products, and elevated design aesthetic. Additionally, the popular neighborhood business is deeply rooted in the community—participating in local events, supporting other small businesses, and extending the benefits of wellness beyond its walls and into the neighborhood.
Ruby Slipper Cafe, Canal Street Location
Earlier this year, Ruby Slipper Cafe celebrated its return to Canal Street five years after the catastrophic collapse of the Hard Rock Hotel construction site in 2019. The brand’s choice to reclaim this location as its flagship store captures its undeniable ties to New Orleans’ Downtown neighborhood—which it consistently aims to elevate and make better through quality service, delicious food, and unmatched resilience. This popular and beloved dining locale showcases the strength and spirit of the Downtown community and encapsulates what leadership means within the DDD.
YLC’s Wednesday at the Square
Young Leadership Council’s Wednesday at the Square concert series captures the spirit of Downtown New Orleans through its display of community and culture each spring at Lafayette Square. The 10-week gathering draws more than 4,500 attendees each week and provides a needed gathering space for the residents, workers, and visitors of the DDD. Its impact, reach, and musical excellence brings people together to celebrate, donate, and enjoy the neighborhood and its diverse commercial and artistic offerings.
Ana Esparza
Public Safety Officer of the Year
As a dedicated member of the DDD Private Patrol Unit, Ana Esparza works diligently to keep Downtown New Orleans safe—demonstrating strength, kindness, and capability from her Canal Street patrol region. She approaches each day as an opportunity to impact and uplift the District, treating all residents, workers, and visitors with empathy, patience, and respect. Her presence in the neighborhoods makes it a better place and her resilience mirrors that of the community which surrounds her.
Devante Lee
Public Safety Ranger of the Year
For nearly two years, Devante Lee has served Downtown New Orleans with dedication, curiosity, and compassion, bringing unmatched knowledge and kindness to his role as a DDD Public Safety Ranger. A well-known face in the community, Devante consistently brings top-notch hospitality skills and a smile to his engagements with residents and visitors alike. His undeniable positivity and strong work ethic—both in the neighborhood and in the DDD office—reflect his passion for Downtown, its people, and its future.
Walter Abney
Clean Team Ambassador of the Year
Walter Abney has been helping to elevate the Clean Team effort in Downtown since May of 2022. After relocating to New Orleans from Lake Charles in the wake of Hurricane Laura, Walter has developed a deep love for the city and its Downtown area. His passion for keeping the neighborhood clean and spending time outdoors shines through in his deep-rooted dedication to the Clean Team. A committed community member and an always-friendly face, Walter epitomizes the mission of DDD, and does it with care, compassion, and inspiration that is both admirable and infectious.
Arthur Roger Gallery Owner, Arthur Roger
Chair’s Award
Since the 1980s, Arthur Roger, beloved owner of Juia Street’s Arthur Roger Gallery,has been helping to move the needle towards a world-class Downtown New Orleans through his artistic passion, entrepreneurial spirit, and demonstrated love for community. His vast list of accomplishments—which span from coordinating artistic displays for the 1984 Louisiana World’s Fair to acting as the current Chair of the Greater New Orleans Foundation’s LGBTQ Fund—represent Roger’s lifelong commitment to serving the Downtown neighborhood and promoting its excellence, resiliency, and unending potential. His impact, character, and history of success make Arthur Roger a true changemaker, champion, and innovator in the city, both throughout the DDD and beyond.
About the Downtown NOLA Awards
An annual tradition recognizing the exceptional accomplishments of Downtown NOLA property owners, businesses, residents, workers, and organizations, the Downtown Development District (DDD) Downtown NOLA Awards honor the people and places that inspire and epitomize the heart of the Crescent City.An annual tradition recognizing the exceptional accomplishments of Downtown NOLA property owners, businesses, residents, workers, and organizations, the Downtown Development District (DDD) Downtown NOLA Awards honor the people and places that inspire and epitomize the heart of the Crescent City.