Destination Weekend | New Orleans
Thursday, March 4 - Sunday, March 7, 2027
Join President & Morton L. Mandel Presidential Chair Eric W. Kaler and Mrs. Karen F. Kaler for a weekend of exploration, connection, and discovery in the heart of New Orleans.
***schedule is subject to change***
Thursday, March 4
Welcome Reception
Kick-off Destination Weekend by reconnecting with fellow alumni, meeting university leadership, and enjoying an evening of New Orleans hospitality.
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Omni Royal Orleans Terrace
Friday, March 5
Meet the Posse Foundation
The Posse Foundation identifies, recruits, and trains individuals with extraordinary leadership potential who go on to receive full-tuition scholarships to attend Case Western Reserve University. Join us for breakfast and a moderated discussion between Mrs. Karen F. Kaler and Sherdren Burnside, Director of the Posse Foundation.
This activity includes breakfast.
8:00 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. | Omni Royal Orleans Rib Room
Explore Mardi Gras World
Mardi Gras World not only gives you an authentic Mardi Gras experience year-round, but also takes you deeper into the work behind making Mardi Gras. Whether you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time or you’ve been on the parade route since before you were able to say “throw me something mister,” the Mardi Gras World tour is something you can’t miss.
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. | Mardi Gras World
Tour the National World War II Museum
The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that all generations can understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn.
Mrs. Karen F. Kaler will be facilitating a discussion with Jeremy Collins, Senior Director of Programs at The National WWII Museum. Following the discussion will be a performance by the Victory Belles.
This activity includes lunch.
12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. | National WWII Museum
Evening on Your Own
Enjoy an evening at your leisure. Discover New Orleans' celebrated dining scene, live music, and vibrant nightlife.
Saturday, March 6
Sex, Slavery and Second Lines: A Brief History of the Crescent City
Join us again in the Rib Room as Mrs. Karen F. Kaler discusses the spiritual side of New Orleans with Dr. Noël M. Voltz, Assistant Professor of History at Case Western University. Dr. Voltz specializes in African American, Early American, and African Diaspora Histories and is also a recent recipient of the Carl F. Wittke Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching.
Breakfast is included in this activity.
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Omni Royal Orleans Rib Room
Self-Guided Afternoon
After breakfast you will have a few hours to explore New Orleans at your own leisure. If you sign up for an adventure, please make sure you are back at the host hotel, Omni Royal Orleans, by 2:00 p.m. to ensure an on-time departure for each activity.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Spend the day discovering New Orleans and the surrounding region through a selection of curated experiences. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, film, culture, or the natural beauty of Louisiana, there's an adventure waiting for you!
2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Advance selection required.
- World War II Museum
The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that all generations can understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn.
- Swamp Tour
Explore the natural beauty of Louisiana on a guided swamp tour through the region's iconic wetlands. Discover the area's unique ecosystem, native wildlife and fascinating history while experiencing the beauty of the bayou firsthand.
- Hollywood South Walking Tour
Discover New Orleans through the lens of Hollywood on a guided tour of the city's most iconic film locations. From the Mississippi River and historic Canal Street movie palaces to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and the French Quarter, explore the settings of beloved films while learning about New Orleans' rich cinematic history and thriving film industry.
Meet your guide!
- French Quarter Walking Tour
Explore the history and culture of New Orleans on a guided walking tour through the iconic French Quarter. Discover historic landmarks, architectural treasures and charming Creole courtyards while uncovering the city's fascinating stories of colonial life, piracy, slavery, commerce and Creole culture. From Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral to the French Market and Pirate's Alley, experience the rich history that shaped the Crescent City.
Meet your guide!
- New Orleans School of Cooking
Watch, learn, and eat your way through New Orleans in this entertaining cooking demonstration! Enjoy a full, freshly prepared New Orleans lunch included with your class as our larger than life local chefs share cooking secrets, fascinating history, and colorful stories.
- TBD TOUR
Farewell Reception
We've made it to the end of our journey through New Orleans. We welcome you BACK to Mardi Gras world where Mrs. Karen F. Kaler and Daniel Goldmark will discuss the vibrant history of jazz music and then we'll indulge in food, drinks, and even more merriment than Thursday night.
7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.