NEW ORLEANS, La. – New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center COO Adam J. Straight was recognized as a “Power 20” honoree in a recent tourism and hospitality issue of New Orleans City Business, a weekly business newspaper. A special section published quarterly, each Power 20 edition represents a different industry and features 20 of the most influential leaders in that industry.
Chosen for this honor through an anonymous nomination process, Straight has played a key role in the success of the convention center’s ongoing $557 million capital improvement plan. Under his leadership, the convention center has completed extensive renovations, making energy-saving upgrades and other sustainability projects a key focus. According to a news release, the plan is critical to modernizing the 40-year-old facility to address today’s meeting needs and making infrastructure upgrades, including replacing a traditional roof with 1.9 million square feet of a new, energy-efficient roofing system. By prioritizing these sustainability initiatives, the convention center earned LEED Gold certification and became the first convention center in the world certified under the more rigorous LEED program v4.1 O+M. This latest LEED program raised the building standards for energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor air quality, and waste reduction.
“Our convention center is fortunate to have such an experienced and knowledgeable leader guiding our day-to-day operations,” says Michael J. Sawaya, convention center president/CEO. “Adam’s discipline has been a driving force in how we improve our processes and our facility for the modern meetings market. I want to congratulate Adam on this well-deserved recognition. We are thrilled to see him receive this honor for his impact on the local visitor industry.”
Before joining the convention center, Straight was integral to multiple large events and high-profile construction projects. With more than 20 years of experience in the event industry, he previously served in executive positions at the Georgia Dome, the University of Maryland, and the Georgia World Congress Center Authority. Straight currently manages and oversees daily operations for the facility and its 1.1 million square feet of exhibit space.
A veteran of the U. S. Coast Guard, Straight received numerous accolades and commendations for his service. He earned a safety certification from the National Safety Council and is an International Association of Venue Managers-certified venue manager. Married to his wife, Alyson, and a father of two sons, Silas and Peyton, Straight is actively involved in his community. He regularly volunteers with several initiatives and organizations, including various committee memberships and serving as a board member of the Men’s Club at Holy Name of Jesus School.
