Gary Lagrange

Gary LaGrange took leadership of the Port of New Orleans in September 2001. A native of South Louisiana, Mr. LaGrange came to New Orleans after serving as Executive Director of the Mississippi State Port Authority at Gulfport. Since becoming port director at New Orleans, general cargo volume has increased each year, contracts have been signed with Carnival Cruise Lines and Norwegian Cruise Line to homeport vessels, and the port’s first-ever dockside cold storage facility has recently opened.  The newly-opened $101 million Napoleon Container Terminal is considered the most advanced container terminal in the world.

During Mr. LaGrange’s tenure at the Port of Gulfport, from 1999 to 2001, both revenue and tonnage increased, while the value and diversity of cargo improved. New infrastructure included a $150 million public container terminal.

In 1997, Mr. LaGrange became the Executive Director and CEO for the Port of South Louisiana, the largest tonnage port in the Western Hemisphere and third largest in the world. There, he planned, developed and procured financing for the port’s first open dock and berth.

In 1976, Mr. LaGrange was selected as the first Executive Director of the fledgling Port of West St. Mary in Franklin, Louisiana. He accepted the challenge of building a port where there was none and succeeded in constructing a highly profitable, shallow-draft industrial complex that became the catalyst for economic development for the parish (county).

His commitment to the maritime industry is reflected in the numerous leadership positions he has held at state, regional and national levels. He is chairman-elect of the United States Delegation of the American Association of Port Authorities, an alliance of 350 ports in the Western Hemisphere.  He also serves on the boards of the Gulf Ports Association of the Americas and the Gulf Intracoastal Canal Association, and the planning committee of the Inland Rivers Ports and Terminals Association. He is a devoted advocate of community involvement and his participation in numerous business and civic organizations rival that of his professional commitments.

Morning Plenary Panel Presentations

We have all been affected by terrorism and the need for improved Homeland Security.  What is our government doing to address the situation and what is industry doing to help protect our citizens and critical assets?  The speakers will present a perspective on Louisiana-based roles and actions related to this need.