PRESS RELEASES
LOUISIANA GATEWAY PORT ANNOUNCES STRENGTHENED LEADERSHIP WITH NEW C-SUITE ADDITIONS
- Belle Chasse, LA
- March 20, 2025
Belle Chasse, LA – Louisiana Gateway Port is pleased to announce the expansion of its executive
leadership team with the addition of two new C-suite positions. The new roles include Chief
Administrative Officer Patrice Bell and Chief Financial Officer Shannon Glapion. This strategic move
is aimed at enhancing the Port’s leadership and improving day-to-day operations.
The addition of these key positions marks a significant step in Louisiana Gateway Port’s
commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth. The new executives bring a wealth of
experience and expertise that will be instrumental in driving the Port’s mission forward.
Chief Administrative Officer, Patrice A. Bell, with over 25 years of experience in executive
management, operational effectiveness, strategic communications, government relations, and
community engagement across various sectors, has joined the Louisiana Gateway Port as Chief
Administrative Officer. She has held senior roles at Xavier University of Louisiana,
Transdev/Regional Transit Authority of New Orleans, and the American Red Cross, and has
consulted for organizations like Liberty Bank and Trust Co., H & R Block, the National Children’s
Defense Fund, and the Urban League. Patrice holds a degree in Broadcast Journalism and Mass
Communications from the University of New Orleans and graduate certifications from Harvard
University. Known for her ability to create efficiencies, build coalitions, secure funding, and elevate
brands, she is eager to contribute to the growth and success of the Port.
Chief Financial Officer, Shannon Glapion is a Certified Public Accountant with 25 years of
experience in both public and private accounting. She brings a robust ability to enhance decision-making processes through detailed evaluations of accounting results and improvements in work
processes and efficiency. Shannon’s extensive audit experience includes conducting and
undergoing non-profit, governmental, and compliance audits. She is highly skilled in advanced
analytical and computer tasks, and is committed to maintaining precision, accuracy, and strategic
financial management.
“We are thrilled to welcome Patrice Bell and Shannon Glapion to our executive team. Their
combined expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to drive operational
excellence and strategic growth at Louisiana Gateway Port,” Executive Director Charles Tillotson.
“This expansion of our leadership team underscores our commitment to enhancing our operations
and better serving our stakeholders.”
These additions to the executive team will strengthen Louisiana Gateway Port as an organization,
providing a solid foundation for future growth and success. The enhanced leadership structure will
improve decision-making processes, foster innovation, and ensure the Port continues to meet the
needs of its stakeholders.
About the Louisiana Gateway Port: Located at the mouth of the Mississippi River, is a leading
maritime hub along the Gulf Coast. With its strategic location on the Mississippi River, the Port
plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth, supporting local industries, and connecting
communities. Equipped with modern terminals and facilities, the Port handles a diverse range of
cargo and implements environmentally sustainable practices. The Port owns and operates the ferry
system in Plaquemines, an essential connectivity asset. Through its operations, the Port generates
employment opportunities, stimulates regional economic diversification, and fuels long-term
prosperity