Twenty years after his passing, John Kushner’s influence is still written across the New Orleans skyline, and in the careers of countless professionals he touched along the way. His leadership and vision set a foundation that many of us continue to build on today.
John brought structure, energy, and momentum to commercial real estate in New Orleans at a time when the industry was still taking shape. John set the trends, although ever optimistic; during the 80’s oil collapse we had some of our best years ever. While at Latter & Blum, he led leasing efforts for landmark properties such as Lakeway I, II, and III, Galleria, 1515/1555/1615 Poydras Street, Place St. Charles, and many more. His presence along Veterans Boulevard and Poydras Street set a professional standard that continues to influence how office leasing is done in the city.
Long before diversity and inclusion were industry buzzwords, John built his teams around talent and potential, not stereotypes. In the mid-1980s, when he opened his own firm, he recruited and mentored women at a time when few had been given a foothold in the field. I was fortunate to be among them, along with Mary Hinderman, Beth Cristina, Maria McLellan, Sheryl Rainold, and Stephanie Boyd. His belief in our abilities was more than symbolic — he trusted us with high-profile assignments, equipped us to lead, and made sure we had a seat at the table.
For me personally, John’s mentorship was a defining moment. He recognized potential in me before I fully saw it myself. and gave me the chance to develop a specialty in office leasing, which became the foundation of my career. His early mentorship helped me earn my broker’s license, serve in leadership roles within our industry, and now, as Director of Office Leasing at SRSA Real Estate, where I strive to mentor others in the same spirit.
John’s influence went far beyond the office market.
He played a key role in helping restaurant pioneers like Emeril Lagasse and Al Copeland grow through smart real estate decisions. Emeril even honored John by naming a dessert, the “JK Chocolate Soufflé,” after him, a testament to their friendship as noted in DUO Magazine.
But John’s legacy extends far beyond the deal sheet. He was deeply engaged in civic life, serving as chair of the Collections Committee for the National WWII Museum, where the John E. Kushner Restoration Pavilion now stands in his memory. He also lent his leadership to boards and committees including First City Bank, City Business, Goodwill Industries, the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce, the Petroleum Club of New Orleans, and the New Orleans Association of Realtors (NOMAR). Over three decades, he earned multiple F. Poche Waguespack Awards (Largest volume of real estate sales) and the Service to the Industry Award from the Commercial Investment Division of NOMAR.
In commercial real estate, true legacy is not just about buildings. It’s about the people you elevate along the way. John Kushner changed the trajectory of my life and the lives of many others. Two decades later, his mentorship remains a model for how to lead with vision, integrity, and faith in people. John’s early belief in me and others continues to inspire how we work and lead in this business. I carry his lessons forward in how I mentor others and approach challenges.
I would like to thank Stephanie Ruello for helping me capture these reflections and honor John’s legacy.
