Leadership

Kelsey R. Foster, Executive Director
Kelsey’s career has been focused on the intersection of economic policy, public finance, and community engagement. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Print and Multimedia Journalism from Emerson College, a professional certificate in Public Finance from the University of Chicago, and is working towards a Masters of Public Service at the University of Arkansas. Foster is a resident of Algiers Point and serves as an At-Large board member of Old Algiers Main Street. Kelsey loves catching the sunset on the Algiers levee, riding the Algiers ferry to Mardi Gras parades, and grabbing a beer at the Crown and Anchor Pub.

Robert Taylor, Program Manager
Robert leads AEDF’s small business support and community development programming. Through his skills in business relations, research, and community engagement, he works across sectors to help foster equitable and inclusive development for Algiers. Robert graduated from Hendrix College with a B.A. in Political Science, minoring in economics. He then matriculated to the University of Georgia where he earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration, specializing in Local Government Management. Among other roles, has previously worked as a nonprofit development consultant and in other economic development roles. Robert enjoys long walks at the beach, making corny jokes, long weekends with his wife and pets, and watching the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Saints.
Executive Committee
president
Tara Miller
Ochsner Health

first vice-president
Robert Royal
The Robert royal Foundation

Second vice-president
Ben Morvant
Crescent Towing

treasurer
John Paul Metzler
Effectus Group

secretary
Christe Brewton
Crescent Towing

Board of Directors
-
Tara Miller
Ochsner Health -
Shawanda Poree
Poree's Embroidery -
Jade Colin
The Colin Family Organization -
Windi Brown Smith
Ostendorf Tate Barnett -
Alex Geriner
Doorman Designs -
Todd Clower
Harbor Towing & Fleeting, LLC -
Erik Garcia
Plan Wisely Wealth Advisors
-
Christe Brewton
LCMC -
Ben Morvant
Crescent Towing -
Krista Pouncy-Dyson
Performance First Digital -
Rob Hopkins
Hancock Whitney Bank -
John Paul Metzler
Effectus Group -
Greg Ravy
Heroes of New Orleans -
Justin Williams
Helping Hands Accounting Services
Past Presidents
- Rachel Shields, 2020-2022
- Ron Bordelon, 2019
- Theodore C. Sanders III, 2017-2019
- Dr. Stanton McNeely III, 2015-2017
- D'Jaun Hernandez, 2013-2015
- Christopher Kane, 2010-2013
- Clayton White, 2007-2010
- Glenn Orgeron, 2005-2007
- Tyrone Hubbard, 2003-2005
- Paul Richard, 2001-2003
- Elwood Cahill, Jr. 1999-2001
- Belinda Little-Wood, 1997-1999
- Dwayne Lockett, 1996-1997
- Stephen Dickey, 1992-1994
- Max Rabner, 1991-1992
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