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 Holland is the Director of Development and Planning for the Downtown Development Authority, where she oversees the organization's long-term planning, public space development, research and analysis, and policy initiatives. After having worked in both for-profit and government sectors, she realized her passion for downtown revitalization in her hometown and regularly liaises between public and private interests to carry out key initiatives for the district. Rachel holds a Master of Architecture from Tulane University.

As the Events Manager for Downtown Lafayette, Paige brings the heart of the city to life through vibrant and engaging events. From community staples like Downtown Alive! and the Rooftop Crawfish Boil to curated experiences like Fête & Feast and DLU Member Meetups, she oversees the planning, logistics, and creative direction behind it all. She recruits and manages volunteers and continually develops fresh ideas to energize Downtown’s events calendar.

With a background that spans everything from university presidents to Girl Scout troops, Paige thrives in diverse planning environments—and she loves every minute of it. She's driven by a passion for creating memorable experiences, strengthening community connections, and checking things off her to-do list. Known for her attention to detail and talent for turning visions into reality, Paige is dedicated to making every aspect of Downtown life an extraordinary affair.

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With over a decade of experience spanning hospitality, operations, events, and communications, JoElle brings a dynamic and deeply rooted commitment to community and culture. Her background includes operating businesses in the heart of Downtown Lafayette, where she gained firsthand insight into the opportunities and challenges of running vibrant, people-centered spaces.

Throughout her career, JoElle has led the building and training of high-performing management teams, championed inclusive workplace cultures, and executed impactful events that bring people together and energize downtown life. Her approach to leadership emphasizes empathy, clarity, and empowerment—creating environments where both businesses and individuals can thrive.

A passionate advocate for lifelong learning, JoElle believes in the power of continuing education—not just professionally, but personally. She encourages a balanced, holistic approach to success, valuing mental, physical, and emotional well-being as essential parts of the journey.

In her current role, she leads strategy, messaging and programming for Downtown Lafayette, helping to amplify the organization's mission and foster meaningful collaboration among members, partners, and stakeholders across the district.

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