With a background in law, public service, and real estate development, Kevin leads a talented Downtown Lafayette team that focuses on the urban design, place management, development, and programming that drive Downtown Lafayette’s economic and cultural vibrancy. Since Kevin arrived as CEO in early 2024, Downtown Lafayette has launched several key projects including a new Downtown Ambassador program and the establishment of a new 501(c)3 entity to help broaden Downtown Lafayette’s programmatic and fundraising capacity.

Kevin previously served as Executive Director of the Lafayette Public Trust Financing Authority (LPTFA), coordinating redevelopment and housing initiatives throughout the City of Lafayette, including the redevelopment of a historic downtown warehouse into the headquarters for a large technology firm and a new multi-family project downtown.

Kevin has been the chief operating officer of a large real estate development firm and has served as Public Works Director and Chief Development Officer for Lafayette Consolidated Government. Prior to obtaining his law degree from LSU Law School, Kevin was a journalist covering politics and government in Acadiana.

Kevin is married to Heather Blanchard, who is the President & CEO of the United Way of Acadiana. They have three daughters.

Jessica’s role at Downtown Lafayette Unlimited is to oversee DLU’s day-to-day operations and implement DLU’s mission, vision and strategic plan to promote downtown as an economic driver, cultural epicenter and key element of the region’s quality of life. She also serves in fundraising strategy, nurtures relationships in the organization’s 200 members along with its donors, partners and broader community.

Jessica is a results-driven professional who uses creativity and strategy to accomplish the DLU mission. She is passionate about creating spaces and programming for all walks of life so that Downtown can be enjoyed by all. Prior to her role at DLU, Jessica served on the DLU Board of Directors for three years.

In her professional career, Jessica has worked in management, marketing, and operations roles. She is a current member of the Lafayette Re-entry Coalition and is a graduate of Leadership Lafayette class XXXII.

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Rachel’s role at DDA is to facilitate Downtown real estate development and investment and serve as a liaison for private industry with Lafayette City-Parish government. Her background in architecture, experience with development codes, and involvement in development at all stages—from planning to construction—gives her a unique perspective when working with strategic partners.

Rachel also serves on the board of directors for Lafayette Habitat for Humanity and is actively involved in both One Acadiana’s Urban Revitalization and Development Committee and the Acadiana Housing Alliance.

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As Downtown’s Events Manager, Paige’s role is to bring Downtown Lafayette events to life. She is responsible for planning and producing your favorite events like Downtown Alive!, our Rooftop Crawfish Boil, Speaker Series, DLU Member Meetups, and more. She manages logistics, recruits and oversees event volunteers, and creates new and exciting events to bring to Downtown. Paige has experience in several event planning markets – from University Presidents to Girl Scouts, she loves it all!

Paige earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of New Orleans. She’s motivated by creating unforgettable experiences, improving her community, and crossing things off her to-do lists. With a commitment to excellence and a talent for turning visions into reality, Paige is dedicated to making every aspect of Downtown life an extraordinary affair.

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