Our Team.
THEODORE PIERRE, JR.
PRESIDENT
Theodore (Teddy) Pierre, Jr. is a New Orleans-based historic preservationist and master brick mason with over 32 years of restoration experience. Descended from generations of master craftsmen in Louisiana, Teddy trained as an apprentice from the age of 12 with his father Theodore Pierre, Sr., a master brick mason. Teddy earned his Masters degree in Architecture from Tulane University and went on to complete many restoration projects not only in New Orleans, but elsewhere in the state of Louisiana, and beyond.
Pierre Parlante is his brainchild, and having grown up around the neighborhood of Lafayette Cemetery No. 2, Teddy is eager to be able to use his expertise to revitalize a forgotten treasure, while sharing his skills with the next generation of craftsmen.
DR. SUSANNE HACKETT
VICE-PRESIDENT
Susanne holds a PhD in Latin American Studies from the Roger Thayer Stone Center at Tulane University. Prior to receiving her PhD, Susanne worked for nine years at National Geographic Traveler Magazine. She is currently on staff at the Center for Public Service at Tulane University. As vice-president of the Pierre Parlante Project she manages reseach, fundraising and communications.
NORMAN DIXON, JR.
TREASURER
Norman Dixon is the current president of the Young Men Olympians Benevolent Association. As the oldest active African American Benevolent Association in New Orleans, it has played and still plays a crucial role in the life of Central City and Lafayette No. 2. His father, Norman Dixon, Sr., was also the president of the YMO. Norman therefore is a powerful voice in the local community, and his input and opinions are invaluable to a project which intends to be first and foremost for the people in the immediate area.
MERCEDES WHITECLOUD
DIRECTOR
Mercedes Whitecloud is a native of New Orleans, and has extensive experience and knowledge of historic renovation within the city. Having originally received a degree in chemistry, she now applies her knowledge of the natural sciences to consulting on preservation and restoration of masonry buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Her material knowledge, her many contacts in New Orleans, as well as her experiences applying for and designing within the limits of historic districts make her an invaluable member of the board of Pierre Parlante.
