One of the things that makes New Orleans so unique are the people. New Orleans is filled with different people from all walks of life. There are so many ways we contribute New Orleans and that tourism effects each of our lives. Recently, we sat down with one of those hard-working contributors.

Roger Dunaway is Assistant Athletics Director/Athletics Communication at Tulane University, the home of the brand new Yulman Stadium.

How long have you lived in New Orleans?

8+ years

What do you love most about your work?

I enjoy working with our student-athletes and coaches at Tulane, and promoting our athletic accomplishments and endeavors to the local, state and national media. I have also had the privilege of working along-side some of the best public relation professionals and agencies in the city for Final Fours, bowl games and Super Bowls. It’s been an amazing ride and I hope there are many more opportunities in the near future.

Why is the athletic scene in New Orleans so unique?

New Orleans has it all when it comes to hosting athletic events on the biggest stage. The city has a solid infrastructure with some of the best hotels in the nation, numerous but unique transportation options, world class facilities and then mix in the culture, history and most of all the food, and you have the total package for the ultimate experience for both the fans and the teams.

How does our national (and international) reputation as hosting incredible sporting events benefit our city?

I have seen first-hand the curiosity of international media about New Orleans as a host city for many of sporting events. The city has a well-known reputation for its ability to host events, but what makes it unique is what it offers outside the playing arenas with its eclectic blend of history, culture and food, its well-known tourist spots and its convenience. I believe all of this is overwhelming for a journalist who has never experienced New Orleans and is looking for the best of both worlds.

How does our thriving tourism industry affect athletic professionals in our city?

Tourism is the heartbeat of New Orleans and the number one reason why the city is perceived to be one of the best places in the world to visit. One of the best ways to market and promote is word of mouth and the experience New Orleans offers is very unique and most of all fun! The number of events the city hosts goes back to the New Orleans’ lure for tourists. There are a lot of great cities in the nation, but none of them come close to what New Orleans offers.

What do you think New Orleans and the athletic landscape of our city would be like without tourism?

Other than the professional and college teams already established in the city, I don’t believe New Orleans would be a major hub for big events without its tourism, and that would be bad for the local economy as well.

What would you like to see New Orleans accomplish in the future?

Fix the streets! Actually, I hope the city is able to remain the sports mecca of the U.S. and continue to receive the best and biggest events.

What do you love most about this city?

There is no other city in the U.S. like New Orleans. If you ever want to visit another country without leaving the United States, come to New Orleans!

NEW ORLEANS WILL…

ALWAYS PERSEVERE!