NOMAR Forecast Symposium to spotlight “Breaking Ground: The Emergence of a New Economy”

Written By Alicia Vial

Early bird registration opens for the region’s premier industry event

NEW ORLEANS – The New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® (NOMAR) and its Commercial Investment Division are proud to announce that the 15th Annual Economic and Real Estate Forecast Symposium will return Thursday, Oct. 16, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center (6400 Airline Dr., Metairie, LA).

Presented by Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company, the Forecast Symposium is recognized as the Gulf South’s premier forum for real estate and economic insight, delivering up to eight hours of continuing education for real estate professionals. This year’s theme, “Breaking Ground: The Emergence of a New Economy,” explores how shifting market forces and new developments are reshaping Greater New Orleans’ economic future.

“This year’s program is designed to help us connect the dots between macroeconomic forces and the realities of our day-to-day business,” said Mignon Richard Díaz, conference Chairwoman. “We’re breaking new ground in more ways than one – through infrastructure, through construction, and through the innovative industries that are emerging across Greater New Orleans. The Forecast Symposium is the place where professionals gain the tools and perspective to navigate those shifts and prepare for what’s next.”

The full day program will guide attendees through topics from multiple perspectives. Morning sessions will examine the health of the local and national economy, the labor market and key policy impacts, followed by a look at why new industries and infrastructure projects are making Greater New Orleans a competitive market for investment. A panel of lenders will provide clarity on financing conditions, regulatory changes and evolving asset preferences, offering critical insight for anyone seeking to understand the current capital trends.

After lunch, the keynote address by Newell Normand, WWL-AM host and former Jefferson Parish Sheriff, will address affordable housing, demographic shifts and regional supply challenges. Afternoon sessions will spotlight active construction projects and permitting hurdles, market activity across retail, multifamily, industrial and office sectors, and a closing session from Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company  President and CEO Guy Williams on how artificial intelligence is transforming real estate marketing, transactions and decision-making.

“The Forecast Symposium is a wonderful place where a number of experts are gathered together to provide real unbiased information to the industry,” said President and CEO of Gulf Coast Bank & Trust, Guy Williams. “It’s gotten better and better throughout the years and we are honored to serve as the presenting sponsor for the eighth year.”

In addition to Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company, top Forecast sponsors include Crescent Title and the Louisiana Commercial Database (LACDB).

Tickets and further information are available online at nolaforecast.org.

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About NOMAR and CID
Established in 1915, the New Orleans Metropolitan Association of REALTORS® is the voice of real estate for the region, serving a diverse cross-section of real estate professionals through advocacy, education and professionalism. The Commercial Investment Division of NOMAR was formed to foster knowledge, education, integrity and quality workmanship in the commercial, industrial and investment real estate business.

Together, NOMAR and CID are committed to the advancement and development of economic activity and property ownership throughout the Greater New Orleans Metropolitan area. Learn more at nomar.org.

Alicia Vial

Alicia Vial is a New Orleans native with more than a decade of experience elevating client stories and leading crisis response. As the senior director of strategy, Alicia acts as a leader within the Gambel Communications team ensuring each agency team member is positioned to deliver strategic public relations services that meet the highest standards of the industry. In addition to supporting the agency’s long-term business growth and development, she coordinates day-to-day account services and oversees strategic direction while staying abreast of best practices and industry trends to provide innovative solutions to meet client’s needs.

Before joining Gambel Communications, Alicia served as the communications director for the Louisiana SPCA, the oldest and largest animal welfare organization in Louisiana that impacts more than 74,000 animals per year. During her nearly eight-year tenure, Alicia oversaw numerous crises, served on national communication taskforces, oversaw all aspects of internal and external relations and worked alongside the development department to raise critical funding. Prior to that, she worked in the fast-paced New Orleans hospitality industry focusing on digital public relations for multiple hotels.

Alicia is a member of the Public Relations Association of Louisiana (PRAL), Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF), a board member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) New Orleans Chapter and a member of the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute. An accredited public relations practitioner (APR), Alicia is also certified in crisis communications, organizational leadership, content marketing and social media.

A well respected and trusted public relations practitioner, Alicia has been recognized by SPRF as a ‘Senior Practitioner of the Year’. Dubbed early on in her career as one to watch, she also received the ‘Rising Star’ award by PRAL and was profiled in St. Charles Avenue Magazine as part of their Young Bloods series. Most recently, she was recognized at PRSA’s annual Fleurish Awards and received four Awards of Excellence for her work along with the ‘Plate Spinner’ award for her efforts on the board of directors for the chapter.

An LSU graduate, Alicia received a bachelor's degree in mass communications with a concentration in public relations and minors in business administration and leadership development. She is a frequent speaker and presenter on public relations topics, most recently presenting at the Jefferson Economic Development Commission and SPRF annual conference.

When Alicia is not at work, you can find her at the ballpark with her three boys or cheering on the Tigers in Death Valley.

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