Sandra Thompson Herman

About Sandra Thompson Herman

Sandra Thompson Herman is widely acknowledged as one of the most accomplished women in Louisiana governance. Sandra designed the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism and served as the first cabinet-level Secretary. Later as Director of the Atchafalaya Basin Program, she wrote legislation that passed unanimously in the Louisiana Legislature, authorizing $83 million in state funds to match federal funding of $250 million. Those funds were used to build a number of welcome centers, parks, boat landings and water management projects throughout the eight parishes of the Atchafalaya region. Recognized as a trailblazer, Sandra’s experience and success go far beyond her work in government. Sandra’s career in the private sector is extensive, including founding, owning and managing an oil field services company. Most recently, she worked for the group designing and building the new Four Seasons Hotel in the World Trade Center in New Orleans. A prominent public figure, Sandra donated her legacy papers in March of 2020 to the Kathleen Babineaux Blanco Public Policy Center at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The documents will be available to students and historians for research, providing a window into Louisiana political life, especially that of women.In 2019, a group of like-minded leaders formed a nonprofit with a mission to promote global awareness and the importance of education, arts and culture as a means to enhance quality of life, support tourism and strengthen the economy.On June 15, 2020, NOEC oversaw the installation of a historic marker at 623 Canal Street noting the location of the first fixed-seat movie theater in the U.S. The project was begun in 2016 and completed by NOEC.In early 2024, Sandra was inspired to create Celebrate Canal, a citizen-led initiative to bring families back to Canal Street. The idea grew into a much-needed effort to revitalize the corridor with the vision: “To transform Canal Street into a world-renowned, vibrant, diverse and pedestrian-friendly hub that celebrates its cultural heritage, fosters economic growth, and creates a welcoming experience for residents and visitors alike.” As of 2024, NOEC is doing business as Celebrate Canal!In 2025, Celebrate Canal! sponsored seven major public events, drawing more than additional local visitors to Canal Street, according to the Downtown Development District. Today, Celebrate Canal! has developed a comprehensive Vision & Action Plan, which is now actively being implemented to revitalize the corridor.

Experience

1. Founder & President

   Celebrate Canal Coalition

   Aug 2024 — Present · New Orleans, LA, US

Education

• Southeastern Louisiana University

  Bachelor's degree, Political Science and Government

  1980 — 1984

• Louisiana State University

  Master of Business Administration - MBA

  2001 — 2003