Dean Schouest | Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center

Michael “Mike” Fakier | TGMC Board Chairman
December 18, 2019
Michael “Big Mike” Fési, Sr. | Pipeline Construction & Maintenance, Inc.
December 18, 2019
Michael “Mike” Fakier | TGMC Board Chairman
December 18, 2019
Michael “Big Mike” Fési, Sr. | Pipeline Construction & Maintenance, Inc.
December 18, 2019

The Houma-Terrebonne Civic Center is one of the places locally where life happens – a place where people gather to enjoy concerts, sporting events and other entertainment options. The man behind all of that is Dean Schouest, the director of the multi-faceted facility. Since taking over in that role, Schouest said he’s enjoyed working to grow the variety of events offered at the Civic Center – aiming to have various events that all locals can enjoy throughout the course of the year.

What path did you take that led you to where you are today?


“It started with a path of creating and promoting local benefits, functions and festivals on a volunteer level.”

What is the biggest challenge you have faced over the years and how did you meet it?

“The biggest challenge as Director of the Civic Center has been educating the community on the diversity of the facility and creating the regular support of events.”


How do you see your company changing in the next five years, and how do you see yourself creating that change?

“Change going forward will hopefully be focused on more state and national events coming to Houma, such as conventions, sporting events and festivals.”

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?


“Treat everyone equally! You will learn more by listening than you ever will by talking!”

What has been your greatest accomplishment?

“My greatest accomplishment is my children; my efforts with my community is so they have something great here that hasn’t lost our history and culture.”


Who has been your greatest influencer on your path to success?

“My greatest influencer was my dad, Gerald Schouest, who passed away in 2016. He believed in our parish and wanted the best for it in all aspects. I feel like I have taken his love for Terrebonne Parish and used it to build our community with my job here at the Civic Center with events and festivals that build teamwork among us all.”

How are you going to impact the Bayou Region in 2020?


“Our impact in 2020 will be strong. We have state events such as La. Fire Chief Convention, La. Chiefs of Police Convention and much more. We have Harlem Globetrotters returning in March along with Bull Riding and Boat Show in January. We will continue to host local events such as volleyball tournaments that bring 40 out of town teams and spectators as well. We have our Craft Show that we host twice a year, which is considered the largest indoor craft show in the tri-parish area. We are kicking off Mardi Gras in 2020 with a new 12th Night Royal Court Presentation. We will also have our annual Wedding Expo and Kids Day and will be bringing back the NOBT “The Nutcracker” as an annual kickoff to Christmas. We have added to our list of a festival and fundraisers to include MacDonell Children’s Services, Junior Auxiliary of Houma and Rougarou Festival.”

How do you start your workday?

“My workday always starts with deep meditation and thought! Some of my greatest ideas come from quiet focus time.”


Outside of work, what is something you are passionate about?

“Simply put, I am truly passionate about our community and our local culture and want to see it remain yet grow to larger levels to share with others.” •