2024 Honorees
Homer L. Hitt Distinguished Alumna of the Year
Angie M. Gates, '92 & '01![Angie M. Gates](/sites/default/files/inline-images/Gates%20web_1.png)
President and CEO
Events DC
Angie is currently the president and CEO of Events DC, the official convention and sports authority of Washington, D.C. Under Gates’ leadership, Events DC has created a number of events that contribute to the city’s economy and quality of life, including Met Fest, which is the district’s largest gaming festival, and Because They’re Funny Comedy Festival, a showcase of comedians of color that was named one of USA Today’s top 10 new festivals of 2023.
Gates previously served in the administration of Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser as the director of the Office of Cable, Television, Film, Music and Entertainment. She also held roles in the Bowser administration as traveling chief of staff, director of operations for the mayor’s transition team, and director of inauguration. Gates was executive producer of Mayor Bowser’s inaugural celebrations in 2019 and 2022. In 2006, Gates became the first African American general manager of the iconic Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. She began her career as a film specialist for the New Orleans Film Commission.
Gates is the recipient of numerous awards and is a two-time Emmy Award winner. She earned a bachelor’s degree in communications in 1992 and a master’s in arts administration in 2001, both from the University of New Orleans.
Norma Jane Sabiston Distinguished Young Alumna of the Year
Kheri D. Billy, '06
CEO
Reconcile New Orleans, Inc.
Kheri is the CEO of Reconcile New Orleans, Inc., a nonprofit that supports young adults as they transform their lives by encouraging personal growth, providing workforce development and training, and equipping them with tools to achieve their potential. Café Reconcile is the organization’s well-known restaurant in the Central City neighborhood that prepares young adults for careers in the hospitality industry.
Before becoming CEO, Billy served as chief financial officer of Reconcile New Orleans for four years. She previously worked for other nonprofits including Second Harvest Food Bank, DePaul Community Center and De La Salle High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from UNO in 2006.