Mark Lorando

For my first 20-plus years as a newspaper reporter and editor in New Orleans, I thought of myself as a storyteller, not a public servant. Then Hurricane Katrina happened. The future of my city was suddenly in doubt. The stories my newsroom colleagues and I were telling mattered more than they ever had before. Shining a light on conditions in the city, dispelling damaging myths and misconceptions, giving a voice to isolated residents and celebrating the city’s soul and resilience…this was vital, urgent, existential work. 

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On Aug. 29, 2005, I became a public servant first, and a storyteller second. 

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I no longer work in a newsroom, but that remains true. As Director of Strategic Communications for Louisiana Economic Development, I’m responsible for telling the story of our state’s economic performance and potential to a variety of audiences – from CEOs and business relocation advisors to residents and elected officials. The goal is the same as it was in the newsroom: to be accurate, engaging, timely and present wherever people seek information. And once again, the stakes are high: If we can’t correct false narratives about our state, how can we expect companies – and our own residents – to build their futures here? 

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I’m fortunate that the leaders of the organizations I’ve worked for recognize that a college degree is just one way to acquire the skills necessary to craft and amplify important stories – and to lead teams that do the same. I’m a classic STAR (Skilled Through Alternative Routes). All of my training was and continues to be on-the-job. My “professors” were colleagues who mentored me, and bosses who challenged me. As I seek out new talent to help support our communications mission, I’ll make sure the door stays open for STAR storytellers who, like me, chose self-education over college graduation.

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