LEONARD GRAY / L’Observateur / July 19, 2000

LAPLACE – With barely a missed beat, Port of South Louisiana Executive Director accepted the resignation of Deputy Director Don Hays and hired Hays’ successor, former port commissioner Henry Sullivan Jr. of LaPlace.Hays’ plans include the establishment of his own economic development firm, based on his work experience with the state Department of Economic Development.

“I’ve wanted to do this for a long time,” Hays said. “It’s something Iwanted to pursue.”Hays will continue working with the port through the end of July, side by side with Sullivan, who is working half-days until he assumes the deputy director role Aug. 1.Accardo noted, “I had gotten some indication Don was moving on, and I’ve known Henry a long time.”Sullivan served two terms as port commissioner, representing St. John theBaptist Parish, from 1988 to 1996. During that tenure he served twice ascommission president and once as treasurer.

Sullivan is a lifelong St. John Parish resident and recently retired afterserving as Shell Chemical’s procurement and material team leader. He wasemployed with Shell for 32 years.

Recalling that Hays spent 17 years in the Far East recruiting business for Louisiana with the state government, Accardo added, “It’s good he has a future career he seems to enjoy. Don is leaving with a hopeful future.”Accardo commented of Sullivan, “I believe his previous experience at the port, his experience in managing employees and in managing budgets at Shell will serve him well in his capacity as deputy director.”

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