29th annual History Symposium explores Louisiana’s ports

Written By Alicia Vial

Vibrant slate of speakers will trace the development of the state’s ports and maritime traffic

NEW ORLEANS – The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) announces the return of its highly anticipated 29th annual History Symposium, "Navigating the Ports of the Lower Mississippi Valley," Saturday, April 5. This year's symposium underscores the critical and enduring importance of Louisiana's ports as the gateway to the Gulf of Mexico, a lifeline that has shaped the region's history, economy and culture. Registration is now open.

For centuries, control over the movement of goods through Louisiana's ports has been paramount. From the earliest French and Spanish explorers to today's global corporations, the ability to export and import has been, and continues to be, essential for the state's survival and prosperity. The 2025 History Symposium will delve deep into this crucial narrative, examining the complex interplay between commerce, environmental security, labor dynamics and the evolution of port cities.

"This symposium is not just a historical reflection; it's a vital exploration of the forces that have shaped and continue to shape Louisiana," said Daniel Hammer, HNOC president and CEO. "Understanding the history of our ports is understanding the very foundation of our region's economic and cultural identity. This is a unique opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the past, present and future of Louisiana's maritime significance."

A distinguished lineup of speakers will illuminate the multifaceted history of Louisiana's ports and maritime traffic:

  • Thomas J. Adams, Associate Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies and History, University of South Alabama

  • Dr. Darryl G. Barthé Jr., Lecturer of History and Visiting Researcher, Dartmouth College

  • Donald F. Boesch, Professor Emeritus, University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science

  • Richard Campanella, professor of Geography and Associate Dean for Research, Tulane School of Architecture

  • Glenn A. Chambers, Professor of History and Interim Dean of the Honors College, Michigan State University

  • Emily Perkins, Curatorial Cataloger, HNOC

Attendees can further enrich their experience with optional add-on activities, including a guided tour of the Port of New Orleans, providing a firsthand look at contemporary port operations and a private lunch at Antoine’s Restaurant with the symposium speakers. Due to limited availability, these add-on experiences are expected to sell out quickly.

"Navigation into this great river through its ever-changing delta has always posed challenges. With further deterioration of the delta and climate change, it will require innovative new solutions, from channels to fuels, said Donald Boesch, Professor Emeritus at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.

Since its debut in 1996, the Historic New Orleans Collection’s History Symposium has become one of Louisiana’s leading public history events. Every year we bring together scholars, experts and community members to unpack a different topic from our region’s ever-changing narrative. This year, we are focusing on a topic of profound and lasting importance to the state.

Support for the 2025 History Symposium is provided by Lead Sponsor, Port of New Orleans as well as ClearBridge, Villere & Co. and Victor D. Ziminsky III.

The History Symposium will take place Saturday, April 5, from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at HNOC’s Williams Research Center, located at 410 Chartres St. The suggested ticket price is $75 (minimum $25), with optional add-on activities. To register and learn more, visit hnoc.org.

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About the Historic New Orleans Collection
The Historic New Orleans Collection is a nonprofit institution dedicated to preserving the distinctive history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. Founded in 1966 through the Kemper and Leila Williams Foundation, HNOC operates as a free museum, research center and publisher spanning more than 15 historic buildings in the heart of the French Quarter. For more information visit hnoc.org.

Alicia Vial

Alicia Vial is a New Orleans native with more than a decade of experience elevating client stories and leading crisis response. As the senior director of strategy, Alicia acts as a leader within the Gambel Communications team ensuring each agency team member is positioned to deliver strategic public relations services that meet the highest standards of the industry. In addition to supporting the agency’s long-term business growth and development, she coordinates day-to-day account services and oversees strategic direction while staying abreast of best practices and industry trends to provide innovative solutions to meet client’s needs.

Before joining Gambel Communications, Alicia served as the communications director for the Louisiana SPCA, the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in Louisiana that impacts more than 74,000 animals per year. During her nearly eight-year tenure, Alicia oversaw numerous crises, served on national communication taskforces, oversaw all aspects of internal and external relations and worked alongside the development department to raise critical funding. Prior to that, she worked in the fast-paced New Orleans hospitality industry focusing on digital public relations for multiple hotels.

Alicia is a member of the Public Relations Association of Louisiana (PRAL), Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF), a board member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) New Orleans Chapter and a member of the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute. An accredited public relations practitioner (APR), Alicia is also certified in crisis communications, organizational leadership, content marketing and social media.

A well respected and trusted public relations practitioner, Alicia has been recognized by SPRF as a ‘Senior Practitioner of the Year’. Dubbed early on in her career as one to watch, she also received the ‘Rising Star’ award by PRAL and was profiled in St. Charles Avenue Magazine as part of their Young Bloods series. Most recently, she was recognized at PRSA’s annual Fleurish Awards and received four Awards of Excellence for her work along with the ‘Plate Spinner’ award for her efforts on the board of directors for the chapter.

An LSU graduate, Alicia received a bachelor's degree in mass communications with a concentration in public relations and minors in business administration and leadership development. She is a frequent speaker and presenter on public relations topics, most recently presenting at the Jefferson Economic Development Commission and SPRF annual conference.

When Alicia is not at work, you can find her at the ballpark with her three boys or cheering on the Tigers in Death Valley.

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