NEW ORLEANS / AGILITYPR.NEWS / June 01, 2026 / The Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) celebrated the 102nd annual Passing of the Gavel ceremony May 19 at League headquarters. The ceremony celebrated more than a century of women leading for a Greater New Orleans and welcomed the new board of directors, led by President Shelby Wynne.
The 2027-28 board of directors includes:
“As one of the largest Junior Leagues in the world with nearly 1,800 members, it is an incredible honor to lead this amazing group of women.” said Wynne. “From community impact to leadership development, this organization continues to prove what women working together can accomplish.”
During the ceremony, attendees celebrated JLNO’s impact in the 2025-26 League year and recognized the Women’s Entrepreneur Fellowship recipient, Coco Howe of Kits. It also presented $8,000 in scholarships to two nontraditional female students as part of the organization’s Scholarship Opportunity Program that helps to alleviate financial burden and provide an easier path to economic success and independence.
Immediate past president Michelle Clarke Payne presented the second annual Volunteer of the Year Award to Catherine Rigby as well as the 2026 Sustainer of the Year Award to Sarah "Sally" Suthon. Both awards are given to members who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership and dedication throughout the League year.
For more information about JLNO visit www.jlno.org.
About Us
About Junior League New Orleans
Junior League of New Orleans (JLNO) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. More information on the organization can be found at www.jlno.org.
Contacts
Alicia Vial
Senior Director of Public Relations
alicia@gambelpr.com2701 Ridgelake Dr
www.gambelpr.com