DDA + DLU Staff

Anita Begnaud is an action-oriented, results-driven leader who is passionate about building an authentic, diverse, and welcoming downtown district that serves as the economic and cultural engine for the City of Lafayette and Acadiana Region.

As the leader of the DDA and its partner 501c6 non-profit, DLU, Anita spearheads efforts to aid and encourage private development of the district, as well as promote and coordinate public development. Working with downtown stakeholders, developers, government representatives, and community leaders, Anita champions advocacy for a stronger and more dynamic Downtown Lafayette.

Prior to her role as CEO of DDA/DLU, Anita served as Senior Vice President of Communications and Governmental Affairs for One Acadiana, the region’s economic development organization and Lafayette’s Chamber of Commerce. She currently serves on the board of directors for the SLCC Foundation and Ellevate Louisiana. Anita has been recognized as a Woman Who Means Business, 20 Under 40 honoree, and graduate of both Leadership Institute of Acadiana and Leadership Louisiana. She also is actively involved in One Acadiana’s urban revitalization and development committee work.

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.

Gabrielle’s passion for marketing and expertise with targeted audiences made her the perfect candidate as DLU’s Digital and Social Media Coordinator. She manages all of Downtown Lafayette’s social media platforms, creates digital marketing content, and assists with developing different marketing campaigns. She has experience in several marketing genres, including product promotions, service advertisements, revitalization campaigns, and captivating storytelling. Gabrielle spends much of her time browsing the web to keep up with all the latest trends, but when she’s not online, you can find her outdoors hiking or enjoying live music at festivals! She is motivated by others’ creativity and strives to think outside the box in hopes that others are inspired by the content she creates. “There is something special about helping others find their voice, and it is the most rewarding part about what I get to do,” says Gabrielle.