Trust and Fiduciary Services
Alfred Liggans Jr.
Alfred Liggans Jr.
alfredliggans@gulfbank.com | (504) 841-2846
Alfred has over 48 years of experience in the Trust and Employee Benefits industry. He began his career at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2002 and has since played a vital role in the success and growth of the institution.
As manager of the Trust Department, Alfred is responsible for overseeing administration, operations, and business development functions. With a focus on Institutional Trust, he specializes in plan design, implementation, and administration, as well as the investment options that impact these plans. Alfred's extensive expertise enables him to guide individuals in making prudent decisions for their financial and retirement future.
Alfred earned his B.A. Degree from Alcorn State University and holds a Series 6 License, along with a Life, Health, and Variable Annuity License. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honored with the Trust Department Top Retail Business Partner Award in both 2021 and 2022. Over the past two decades, Alfred has spearheaded the growth of the Trust Department, successfully increasing Trust assets from $50M to an impressive $955M to-date.
Prior to his tenure at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co., Alfred served as Manager of Employee Benefits, Plan Administrator, and Retirement Plan Trustee for a prominent local transportation company. He also held the position of Retirement Administrator and Institutional Trust Sales Representative at Hibernia Bank, where he achieved recognition as the "Top Business Development" producer for two consecutive years.
Alfred stays active in the New Orleans community on many levels. He currently serves as a board member of the New Orleans Chamber and previously held the position of President at the New Orleans Association of Employee Benefit Planners (AEBP). In 2009, he graduated from the Bryan Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum. Alfred is a member of the Good Providers Social Club and is a member of the Rho Phi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
In his free time, Alfred enjoys playing golf, tending to his garden, and going fishing. He also cherishes quality time spent grilling with loved ones during the weekends.
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SVP, Trust Manager
Cheryl Braud
Cheryl Braud
cherylbraud@gulfbank.com | (504) 841-2856
Cheryl is a banking professional with a career spanning over 29 years, 24 of which have been dedicated to trust administration, personal trust, and trust operations. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2005 and has since made significant contributions to the organization.
As part of her role, Cheryl holds responsibility for the administration of Personal trust relationships and actively engages in Personal Trust business development. She is passionate about helping clients maintain their desired quality of life, as permitted by the Trust Document. Cheryl specializes in working with personal trust clients facing unique circumstances, including special needs children or adults, individuals struggling with addiction who require assistance managing finances, and elderly clients in need of household oversight and bill payment. Through her work, Cheryl finds fulfillment in enhancing people's living situations, providing them with security, comfort, and happiness.
Cheryl's expertise and dedication have not gone unnoticed. She is a graduate of the Southern Trust School, further enhancing her knowledge and skill set in the field. In 2019, Cheryl was for the Money Makers Award, a recognition by City Business that celebrates professionals for their financial achievements and community impact. City Business published an article highlighting Cheryl's exceptional service and the positive influence she has had on individuals within the community. Moreover, Cheryl was also named the Top Retail Business Partner for Trust in both 2018 and 2019.
Cheryl remains deeply involved in the New Orleans community as well. She actively serves on the St. Mary Magdalen Finance Board and Fair Committee. Additionally, Cheryl is a member of the Kenner Business Association and the New Orleans Estate Planning Council. Currently, she serves as the chair for fundraising efforts in Krewes for Karnival's First Responders. Cheryl has also participated in the Krewe of King Arthur and the Mystic Order of Phoenix.
In her free time, Cheryl takes pleasure in attending events such as Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, and Saints Games. She enjoys antiquing and opportunities to entertain friends and family. She also likes a good beach vacation.
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VP, Trust Officer
Suzanne Hebert
Suzanne Hebert
suzannehebert@gulfbank.com | (504) 841-2885
Suzanne is an experienced professional with over 23 years of experience in personal trust administration. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2007, bringing her extensive expertise to the organization.
Suzanne is responsible for administering personal trust client relationships, as well as managing Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Her attention to detail and in-depth knowledge of trust administration ensure that clients' needs are met with the utmost care and professionalism.
Suzanne's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science Degree from Southeastern Louisiana University. Additionally, she received her degree from the Cannon Trust School, furthering her knowledge in personal trust management.
Prior to Gulf Coast Bank and Trust, Suzanne worked at Regions Bank where she was recognized as an Outstanding Employee that embodies the Values of the Company in 2006. During a merger with AmSouth, she, along with 7 others, were selected out of 100’s of employees from both companies to represent the brand of a new company.
As a New Orleans native, Suzanne is committed to her local community. She served as an Executive Board member of the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton School at Divine Mercy Parish and participated as a member of the Parents Coordination Committee for Brother Martin High School as well as the Archbishop Chapelle Parents Club. Suzanne received the Volunteer of the Year Award from St Elizabeth Ann Seton School Parent Association in 2018. She has previously served as a Girl Scout Leader as well, nurturing young minds and fostering personal growth. Additionally, she has been a member of the New Orleans Estate Planning Council.
Presently, Suzanne serves on the executive board as treasurer-elect of the Kenner Business Association. Suzanne also serves on the executive board as treasurer of the New Orleans Saints Cheerleader Alumni Association. Both organizations raise money and facilitate volunteer opportunities in the New Orleans community
During her free time, Suzanne enjoys watching LSU and Saints Games, reading, photography and especially family time with her husband and children. She also appreciates relaxing on the beach.
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VP, Trust Officer
Michelle Ryals
Michelle Ryals
michelleryals@gulfbank.com | 504-544-6388
Michelle is an experienced professional with over 37 years of experience in the financial industry. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2025, bringing her extensive expertise to the organization.
Michelle is the Business Development Officer responsible for managing Business Retirement Plans with emphasis on Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution Plans to include 401k, 403b, 457, Pension, ESOP, NQDC, Cash Balance, etc. Her attention to detail and in-depth advanced knowledge of the business retirement industry, compliance, ERISA/DOL regulations will ensure clients' needs are met with the utmost care and professionalism. Michelle will develop business relationships with our clients while managing our clients’ plans, provide consultative annual reviews and education for their participants.
Michelle is an Alumni of the University of New Orleans; Mechanical Engineering, Math, Science, and Art. She was a member of the Delta Zeta Chapter.
Prior to Gulf Coast Bank and Trust, Michelle’s experience in the financial industry is vast across all facets of banking with most of her career specifically working with business clients from Business Lending to Treasury Management Officer. In 2018, she moved full circle to advancing into the Business Retirement Industry as a 401k Sales Management Specialist, Executive Director of Sales, Marketing and Relationship Manager. Michelle has worked closely with ASPAA ERISA Attorneys during the most recent adoption of regulation Secure Act 2.0. Michelle’s experience working for and partnering with TPAs, record keepers, custodian banks, and actuaries is instrumental in meeting our client’s needs and developing lasting relationships in the retirement industry. Michelle has been awarded and recognized for her sales and community efforts over the years as well as being recognized as A Woman with Influence.
As a Greater New Orleans native, Michelle is committed to her local community. She has volunteered her time at many charitable events over the years. She supports the youth across the metropolitan area and has volunteered her time to the seniors in her community.
In her free time, Michelle loves spending time and building traditions with her family, participating in meaningful experiences, and is a world traveler. Michelle is a member of the Krewe of Iris and the Krewe of Centurions. She has a passion for dance, fitness, cooking, design, art, and travel.
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AVP, Trust Officer
Nicholas Lonergan
Nicholas Lonergan
nicholaslonergan@gulfbank.com | (504) 412-2006
Nicholas is a banking professional who started his journey at Gulf Coast Bank in 2023. With a solid foundation in life insurance and employee benefits, Nicholas brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as Trust Administrator.
In his capacity, Nicholas is responsible for customizing qualified retirement plan designs and implementation procedures, benefit payments, as well as tax reporting.
Beyond the paperwork, Nicholas is committed to the well-being of employees, conducting on-site enrollment and education sessions to empower individuals with the knowledge to make sound financial decisions. Nicholas' background in employee benefit solutions positions him as a trusted guide for other employees.
Before joining Gulf Coast Bank, Nicholas honed his skills as an independent life insurance agent with New York Life, gaining two years of valuable experience. Academically, Nicholas pursued his passion for business administration, studying for two years at Louisiana State University.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Nicholas enjoys a balanced life. He spends his free time playing golf and basketball, and cherishing quality time with the newest addition to his family, Nora, while also spending weekends improving his home.
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VA Trust Administrator
Nicole Kennedy
Nicole Kennedy
nicolekennedy@gulfbank.com | (504) 841-2859
Nicole is a banking professional with a career spanning 17 years, specializing in trust operations. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2006 as a Trust Operations Assistant transitioned to her position Trust Operations Manager in January 2013.
In her role, Nicole oversees the day-to-day operations of the Trust Accounting System. She manages various critical tasks, including the daily reconciliation of major client Trust-related Demand Deposit Accounts (DDAs), filing state and federal tax returns, and maintaining and balancing Trust Suspense Accounts. Nicole's attention to detail and organizational skills enables her to excel in balancing and organizing complex data, providing invaluable support to the Trust department.
Nicole stays involved in the community through volunteer efforts such as Habitat for Humanity, often accompanied by her daughter. Additionally, Nicole dedicates her time to assisting less fortunate families with school supplies and Christmas gifts through her involvement with the Knights of Columbus in Mandeville, LA.
During her free time, Nicole cherishes time with her family and friends and enjoys vacationing on the beach.
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VP, Operations Manager
Brandy Moss
Brandy Moss
brandymoss@gulfbank.com | (504) 582-7788
Brandy is a banking professional with over 18 years of experience. She joined Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. in 2021 and has previous experience in Retail Operations.
In 2022, Brandy transitioned to the Trust team, where she plays a pivotal role in serving the Trust Department Administrators and their affiliate Investment Partners. As part of her responsibilities, she assists the Operations Manager in the day-to-day operations of the Trust Accounting System and report reconciliation. Brandy's attention to detail, coupled with her extensive banking background, greatly supports the smooth functioning of crucial Trust operations.
Brandy's attended University of New Orleans. Prior to joining Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co., she held the position of operations manager at the Gulf Coast Veterans Branch, focusing on retail banking. During her seven years with First NBC Bank, Brandy served as an assistant branch manager and a branch manager, followed by her three years as an assistant branch manager at Hancock Whitney Bank.
As a New Orleans native, Brandy actively engages in community involvement. She is a member of the Parent Club at Lake Castle Elementary School, contributing her time and effort to various school fundraisers throughout the year. Brandy also volunteers for charitable initiatives such as Coats for Kids and Toys for Tots.
In her free time, Brandy spends quality time with her family and friends, and enjoys cooking and gardening.
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Trust Officer
Dalton Glapion
Dalton Glapion
daltonglapion@gulfbank.com | 504-556-5810
Dalton Glapion is a dedicated financial professional with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for trust investment management and trust services. Since entering the financial industry in 2018, he has gained valuable experience at Ariel Investments, Morgan Stanley, and Tru Wealth Advisors. His background is in trust services, and wealth management. Dalton’s experience allows him to provide insightful guidance to clients while continuously seeking innovative ways to improve client services and products.
As a Trust Associate, Dalton is focused on building strong relationships, understanding clients’ financial goals, and contributing to the success of trust and estate planning strategies. While still defining his role in the field, he remains committed to professional growth and expanding his expertise within the trust and investment sectors.
Dalton is a proud graduate of St. Augustine High School and earned his business degree from the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith. Beyond his professional pursuits, he is deeply engaged in community leadership, with a particular focus on increasing financial literacy among young people. He believes in empowering the next generation with the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve financial independence and long-term success.
His entrepreneurial mindset drives him to seek opportunities to grow businesses, optimize financial strategies, and enhance trust and investment opportunities for individuals and organizations. Whether through direct financial services or strategic business development, he is always looking for ways to innovate and create lasting value.
In his personal time, Dalton enjoys spending quality time with his family, cooking, and continuously expanding his knowledge in various fields. He believes that lifelong learning is essential to both personal and professional growth, and he embraces every opportunity to refine his skills and broaden his expertise.
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Trust Associate