NEW ORLEANS — From the World Trade Center of New Orleans:
Gregory Rusovich, CEO of Transoceanic Development, is this year’s recipient of the Eugene J. Schreiber Award. The award recognizes Rusovich’s long and impactful career as a professional promoting international trade policy and diplomacy, to the benefit of Louisiana. The recognition of Rusovich continues an honorary tradition established in 2013, and named for legendary former managing director of the World Trade Center New Orleans, Eugene J. Schreiber.
“Gene Schreiber was a global trade Titan. It is a true honor to receive this Award. International commerce is the lifeblood of our region and state. Our community’s history, and future prosperity, are directly tied to robust trade and maritime growth,” said Rusovich.
Throughout his professional career, Rusovich spearheaded a number of initiatives that impact the international trade industry in Louisiana. Upon graduating from Tulane University, Rusovich joined Transoceanic Shipping Company in 1981, where he established his visionary leadership through tactics which include devising and implementing the company’s strategy to “go global,” launching 25 international offices with a primary focus on the energy and emerging market. Mr. Rusovich subsequently launched Transoceanic Development, a firm dedicated to global transportation and humanitarian logistics.
“Greg Rusovich stands alone in Greater New Orleans and Louisiana for his tenacious dedication and demonstrable results for international trade in New Orleans and the State,” said Michael Hecht, president and CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. “From Greg’s leadership of the Louisiana Board of International Commerce, to his support of the merger of the World Trade Center and GNO, Inc., to his catalytic role in landing British Airways, the first direct flight to Europe since 1984, Greg has been the tireless vanguard for international exchange and diplomacy. This award is a well-deserved recognition of Greg’s work and legacy.”
Rusovich has been active in supporting an environment where trade and foreign direct investment can thrive. He has dedicated his civic efforts toward post-Katrina New Orleans reform and recovery issues with a focus on global trade, economic development, criminal justice, and tourism. In that capacity, he serves as Chairman, Louisiana Board of International Commerce (appointed by both former Governor Bobby Jindal and Governor John Bel Edwards) and was also appointed by Governor Jindal to the Board of Commissioners of the Port of New Orleans having served as a Commissioner and Chairman. Further, Rusovich has served as the past Chair of Greater New Orleans Inc., Business Council of New Orleans, and New Orleans and Company, is the Honorary Consul to Serbia and currently serves as the Chairman for the Metropolitan Crime Commission. In April 2022, Rusovich spearheaded efforts that resulted in a successful partnership between the World Trade Center New Orleans and Greater New Orleans, Inc., ensuring the long-term success of the World Trade Center.
“Through his dedication and support for building a strong ecosystem where trade can thrive, Greg has left an indelible mark on Louisiana’s economy. Greg’s commitment to Louisiana has ensured that trade and foreign direct investment remain a pillar of our state’s economy,” said Harrison Crabtree, director of the World Trade Center New Orleans. “Greg is a true reflection of what this award represents, and I am proud to recognize him for his decades of accomplishments.”
Rusovich has been recognized nationally for his devotion to supporting a stronger Louisiana. In New Orleans’ Tricentennial year, he was one of “300 for 300,” being one of 300 people who “have made New Orleans New Orleans” during its entire history. Additional recognitions include the Boy Scouts of America Distinguished Citizen Award, Lifetime Membership Award from the World Trade Club in 2004, Propeller Club Maritime Man of the Year 2010, 2010 recipient of City Business’ Driving Forces, and he was inducted into the Junior Achievement Hall of Fame in 2011.
”A huge congratulations to Greg Rusovich on being the 2024 recipient of the Gene Schreiber Award. Day in and day out, Greg embodies the spirit and mission of the World Trade Center of New Orleans.” said Kristi App, WTCNO board chair. “From growing his family-owned shipping company into a global powerhouse to his tireless work with the Louisiana Board of International Commerce to his passion for pushing a coordinated and strategic vision for trade and port infrastructure development in the State of Louisiana to his numerous Rusovich Family Foundation charitable endeavors, I can not think of anyone more deserving of this award than Greg Rusovich. He is a true titan in the maritime industry yet remains a humble servant in pushing for a better Louisiana.
The World Trade Center New Orleans, will recognize Greg’s achievements at an award reception on May 8 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Windsor Court, for tickets and more information, click here.
