08/25: Hope, Leadership, and Innovation in New Orleans: Five Years Later
August 25, 2010As the city of New Orleans approaches its five-year mark since Hurricane Katrina’s war-path, three Keppler Speakers – Soledad O’Brien, former mayor Ray Nagin, and “Katrina General” Russel Honoré – reflect on the crescent city’s progress and the major changes that have led to the city’s remarkable recovery. Sharing stories and insight from the frontlines, the acclaimed journalist, retired general, and former mayor tackle the tough issues and give hope for the future.
CNN’s acclaimed special investigations correspondent Soledad O’Brien brings attention to the story of post-Katrina New Orleans by revisiting the neglected people and neighborhoods in the aftermath of the disaster in yet another CNN special report. An acclaimed journalist and host of CNN’s In America documentaries, O’Brien shows how a never-give-up attitude is vital to overcoming defeat, and that every story is important to tell.
Dubbed by the media as the "Category 5 General" who led Task Force Katrina, Lt. General Russel Honoré has been instrumental in raising awareness about the need to create a culture of preparedness. The city was ill-equipped and unprepared to deal with such a terrible disaster, yet the no-nonsense leader and Commander of Joint Task Force Katrina restored order amidst chaos. Delivering an actionable perspective on responding to the unexpected and uncontrollable, he emphasizes prevention, social entrepreneurship, and preparedness. Honoré joined CNN as the emergency preparedness contributor to CNN Worldwide in 2008, advising on the differences between “leadership” and “management.” Watch this exclusive video now
In the midst of New Orleans’s remarkable recovery, former Mayor Ray Nagin’s efforts have transformed the city back into a thriving business hub. Focusing on economic development, public education system, quality state-wide healthcare, and green construction projects, he’s responsible for developing the Bring New Orleans Back Commission, a master plan for the city’s revival. Now, one of the fastest-growing cities in America, New Orleans is a model of hope and progress. With a tenacity and innovation that’s spurred criticism and questions, Nagin demonstrates how moving forward is key to development and management, even in the worst disasters.
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