NEW ORLEANS - Today, the Council voted to appoint Donna Glapion, New Orleans civic and community leader, to serve as interim Councilmember At-Large for the remainder of former Councilmember Jason Williams’ term.
“This was a difficult choice, but at the end of the day, Donna Glapion hit all of the criteria I was looking for regarding commitment to serving the people of this city and understanding the tough job ahead. I am so proud that Donna has been appointed unanimously as the interim Councilmember. She is a dedicated community leader with experience in the public, private and nonprofit sectors, and I'm confident that she will be a tremendous asset to the Council and the people of this city,” said Council President Helena Moreno.
“My preparation began more than 25 years ago in the Office of the Honorable Dorothy Mae Taylor, the first African American woman elected to the office of Councilperson-At-Large for the City of New Orleans. And, until today, the only to ever serve in this capacity," said Glapion. "My past work, managing people, information, resources and funds in private, corporate, and academic settings, along with my most recent work in direct service to children and families here in New Orleans and across the state has prepared me for both the legislative and constituent focuses of this work. I pledge 100% effort in service to the people of New Orleans.”
"It is clear Donna Glapion will serve this Council as she has served all her other positions - with grace, knowledge, and kindness. I am excited to begin working with our new member and thrilled to have a full Council once again," said Councilmember Joe Giarrusso.
"Donna had the opportunity to witness a hands-on Councilmember-at-Large close up. I have no doubt that she will try to emulate that type of work ethic, passion and commitment to our city. I know she will be a phenomenal asset not only to the Council but to all of the citizens of New Orleans," said Councilmember Jay H. Banks.
"I am excited to welcome my new colleague to the City Council," said Councilmember Kristin Gisleson Palmer. "Since the first day of this term, members of this Council have been focused on improving the lives for all New Orleanians, and I look forward to Ms. Glapion joining us in that work."
"I want to congratulate Donna Glapion on her appointment to the City Council. As an African-American woman, her appointment adds a critical voice to this Council. I am excited to learn from her and work with her over the next 11 months as we move New Orleans forward," said Councilmember Jared Brossett.
"I am proud to have another representative from District E serving in an At-Large position. I believe that soon-to-be Councilwoman Glapion will work hard for the people of New Orleans and that her experience in our education system will be a valuable asset as we work together to move the City and our district forward," said Councilmember Cyndi Nguyen.
Councilmember-nominee Glapion will be officially sworn in tomorrow in a private ceremony and will begin work immediately. She is not eligible to be a candidate for the At-Large seat in the fall.
###
Media Contact:
Andrew Tuozzolo
Chief of Staff
Councilmember-at-Large Helena Moreno
AVTuozzolo@nola.gov
504.281.9882