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ARCHITECTURE

Cassie Ragan has become a principal in the firm of Holly and Smith Architects of Hammond. Ragan began her career with Holly and Smith in 1989 after graduating with a degree in architecture from LSU. She obtained her license to practice architecture, Interior Design, and became a member of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification in 1994. Ragan served as associate in charge of Interiors and project manager prior to this appointment.

Mark Beckers has also become a principal in the firm of Holly and Smith Architects. Beckers graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture in 1984 and began working at Holly and Smith Architects in 1990. He obtained his architecture license in 1990 and has been a project manager and an associate in charge of production with the firm.

EDUCATION

Sara Lynn Baird is now the interim dean of the LSU College of Music & Dramatic Arts. Baird is the college’s associate dean of Academic Affairs. She holds the Stephanie Landry Barineau professorship in choral studies, is president of the Southern Division of American Choral Directors Association and is on the national board for ACDA. She received her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University, her master’s from the Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati and her Ph.D. from Florida State.

Anthony G. Falterman of Napoleonville is a member of the Board of Supervisors for LSU. Gov. Kathleen Blanco appointed Falterman, who will represent the 3rd Congressional District. He is currently serving his third term as the district attorney for the 23rd Judicial District, encompassing Ascension, Assumption and St. James parishes.

FINANCIAL & INSURANCE

Robert T. Taylor has been elected as the CEO of the Louisiana Bankers Association. Taylor takes the position after 16 years as director of government relations with LBA and more than eight years as director of government relations with the Louisiana League of Savings Institutions.

Steven Dugal is the new managing director of Louisiana at Northwestern Mutual Financial Network. Now presiding over the entire state, Dugal will continue to be part of a network of specialists and be responsible for the sales and service operations of the company. He has been with the company since 1989 and will work at the Metairie office.