Posted on February 3, 2019
St. Bernard resident Rachel Nunez is the newest member of the St. Bernard Port, Harbor and Terminal District’s Board of Commissioners. Nunez was endorsed by State Rep. Ray Garafalo and Sen. Sharon Hewitt and appointed by Gov. John Bel Edwards.
This volunteer position plays a vital role in the port’s operations.
Nunez will serve as the board’s treasurer. In her 18 year banking career, Nunez has garnered a number of achievements and awards, highlighted by being named as the 2016 American Business Women’s Association’s Woman of the Year. That same year, New Orleans City Business named Nunez as one of the Top 50 Women of the Year.
Nunez currently serves as the vice president of the Hancock Whitney Commercial Team and has a wealth of experience in maritime banking, as well as a proven ability to execute business plans and build relationships. She also has a passion for nonprofit leadership, serving on an array of boards, including the New Orleans Ballet Association, Metro Centers for Community Advocacy, Chair of Women of NORLI, New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute and, most recently, St. Bernard Chamber and St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation
She said service to her hometown is very important to her.
“Being a Nunez and carrying the name of my ancestors who founded St. Bernard means more to me than anything,” she said. “I always want to make my family proud in everything I do.”
Nunez said she is passionate about her heritage and committed to seeing St. Bernard continue to prosper. She knows her new role with the port will be challenging but looks forward to it.
“I am excited to have been given this opportunity to serve,” she said. “My professional experience and training have taught me the importance of having my own voice, but my goal is pretty straightforward. I want to do what’s right for the people of the parish and for the Port.”
Andrew Jacques, the executive director of the St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation, called Nunez a great leader and team player.
“Rachel’s passion and drive is truly infectious,” Jacques said. “And while her resume speaks for itself, perhaps more impressive is the universal admiration she receives from fellow associates and volunteers.”
Nunez’s drive is also evident in her passion for fitness. An avid cyclist and triathlete, Nunez was recently accepted to participate in the Chicago Marathon. Nunez said whether it’s her professional life or her personal life, it’s important to continuously push her boundaries of comfort.
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you,” Nunez said.
Source: nola
