Gretna Economic Development Association – GEDA
Over 30 Years!
Gretna Economic Development Association Projects:
- Gretna Christmas Tree Lighting
- Gretna Farmers Market & Art Walk
- Annual Soup Cookoff
- Gretna Heritage Festival
- Gretna Home Christmas Decorating Contest
- Partner for King Cake Social
- Partnering for Lundi Gras
- SeerSucker Soiree
- Pink Dress Golf Tournament
- Quarterly Socials
Gretna Economic Development Association Board Members:
Teri B Tucker, President
In 1980 I was about to enter into the career of my life at 16 years old, Banking. I started with Guaranty Bank, a small Community Bank on the Westbank of New Orleans as a drive-up teller. Fast forward 44 years later I’m still in banking working with Bonvenu Bank, a Community Bank, nearly 40 years old out of Bossier City with 3 years in Jefferson Parish as a Vice President/Business Banker. My love of Banking is helping others with their financial needs and developing new relationships.
I presently serve on several Boards, one as President of Gretna Economics Development Association (GEDA), along with being Co-Chair on the Government and Environmental Committee of Westbank Business & Industries (WBIA). Presently I have the role of Vice President with West Jefferson Hospital Foundation and serving on the Board of Commissioners for Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO).
I have lived on the Westbank all my life and enjoy the simpler things; I love learning about our Community and our City. The outdoors is my favorite place to be so if I’m not working, I’m hanging out with family and friends and enjoying my precious granddaughter, Charlotte Rae and awaiting a new addition to our family later this year.
Renee Ferrera, Vice President
Renee is serving her 3rd year as Vice President for GEDA and has been a Broker Associate with Keller Williams Realty, Gretna office for nearly two decades. Additionally, she is an Assistant Team Leader and Productivity Coach. Prior to her real estate career, Renee worked as Vice President in Public Finance/Institutional Sales with Legg Mason for 20 years. In addition to her current role, she held various leadership positions with the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of Realtors, Women’s Council of Realtors and Keller Williams. Renee holds a degree in Business Administration and graduated from Archbishop Blenk High School. Living in Gretna for over two decades, Renee is a proud mother of one son, Chris Ferrera.
Kyla S. Ray, Secretary
Kyla is a native of Terrytown, LA and has lived in Gretna, LA since 2009. Kyla is currently working as an Administrator at a New Orleans law firm and has managed people for the last 16 years. She has served on a number of boards in roles such as Secretary for GRID and is currently serving as President for 3D Elite, LLC and Secretary for ALA, New Orleans Chapter. Kyla has developed a strong sense of devotion for the nonprofit sector as she is driven by the need to help others. She is both proud and honored to be on the 2024 GEDA Board and looks forward to help grow the city of Gretna.
Chase Dickey Member At Large
Chase began his career in photography at just 18 years old working as a photographers’ assistant. Over the course of the next few years, he trained under some of the best photographers in the country, earning his certification as a Certified Professional Photographer by the Professional Photographers of America. During his career, he has been recognized and won awards in several photographic competitions including “Best Senior Photograph” in the state of Louisiana. Chase continues to hone is craft to create quality portrait art for all his clients. Chase now sits on the 2024 GEDA board and is proud to serve the great city of Gretna!
Laura Ferrera Treasurer
Laura Ferrera joined Delta Title Corporation as a Business Development Specialist in 2018 after a successful tenure with the Gambit newspaper. While primarily responsible for the Company’s Westbank and Uptown offices, Ms. Ferrera markets the Company’s title and escrow services throughout the Greater Metropolitan New Orleans area. A licensed Louisiana Title Agent, in addition to nurturing existing relationships with area REALTORS™, lenders, credit unions, and investors, as well as buyers and sellers of both residential and commercial properties, Ms. Ferrera is also charged with growing the Company’s presence in all markets. Laura takes great pride in working closely with all clients and the Company’s Closing Coordinators and Attorneys to ensure they experience a smooth and successful closing experience. She’s a mother of 2 and resides in Gretna.
Katie Lefort Member At Large
Katie Lefort has been in the banking industry for over 18 years and has been with Gulf Coast Bank & Trust for over 9 years. She currently manages the Gulf Coast Bank Terry Parkway branch. Katie stays very active in her community, volunteering for numerous events and even sitting on the board for the Terrytown Economic Development Association. She is family-focused, spending her spare time with her family, attending her kids’ sporting events, and taking them shopping. Katie resides in Crown Point with her husband, Jared, and her two children, Taylor and Jace.