Brittany Cretchain Named Inaugural 64 Parish Passport Directory Honoree

Opelousas, Louisiana - St. Landry Economic Development is proud to announce that Brittany Cretchain has been selected as an Inaugural 64 Parish Passport Directory Honoree, recognizing her contributions to economic development, community leadership, and service in St. Landry Parish.

Cretchain will be recognized alongside other honorees during the 4th Annual Louisiana Leads Luncheon and Awards on Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center. The luncheon is hosted by the Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation and presented by JPMorgan Chase. The event will bring together business, community, philanthropic, and civic leaders from across Louisiana to celebrate leadership, economic development, and individuals helping move all 64 parishes forward.

Born and raised in Opelousas and a lifelong resident of St. Landry Parish, Cretchain is proud to contribute professionally to the growth and development of the parish she calls home. St. Landry Parish encompasses 12 municipalities, and her work in economic development supports initiatives that impact businesses, communities, and residents throughout the parish.

Cretchain began her career in economic development in 2023 as an Economic Development Specialist with St. Landry Economic Development. In February 2026, she expanded her responsibilities when she was appointed Downtown Revitalization Project Specialist for the Opelousas Downtown Development District. She continues to serve in both roles, supporting parish wide economic development efforts while also contributing to downtown revitalization initiatives designed to strengthen the economic vitality and long-term future of Downtown Opelousas.

“I’m incredibly proud to contribute to my home parish,” said Cretchain. “Being born and raised in Opelousas, being a resident of St. Landry Parish, and now having the opportunity to do work that contributes to the growth and future of the parish is something I do not take for granted. It is meaningful to be able to serve the community that helped shape me.”

Cretchain’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional responsibilities. She serves as a St. Landry Chamber of Commerce Ambassador and is a member of the Opelousas Noon Rotary Club, GFWC Opelousas Woman’s Club, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She was also an inaugural panelist for the Chamber’s Women Who Lead Luncheon, where she shared her perspective on leadership, professional growth, and the importance of women contributing their voices and talents to the communities they serve.

Cretchain holds a bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication with a concentration in Broadcasting and a Master of Public Administration. She is also a contributing author of The HBCU Experience: The Southern University System, 3rd Edition, an Amazon best-selling publication celebrating the history, legacy, and experiences of the Southern University System.

Lena F. Charles, Chair of the Opelousas Downtown Development District Board, said Cretchain’s recognition reflects her commitment to the community and the work she continues to do.

“Brittany represents the kind of emerging professional and community leader who understands that meaningful economic development begins with people and a genuine commitment to place. She brings energy, professionalism, creativity, and a strong desire to see St. Landry Parish and Downtown Opelousas continue to grow. We are proud to have her contributing to this work and excited to see the impact she will continue to make in our community and throughout Louisiana.”

The 64 Parish Passport Directory celebrates individuals making meaningful contributions throughout Louisiana’s 64 parishes and highlights leaders whose work is helping strengthen communities and create opportunities across the state.

For Cretchain, economic development is ultimately about people, possibility, and creating communities where future generations can live, work, and thrive.

Media Contact:

St. Landry Economic Development
5367 I-49 S. Service Road
Opelousas, Louisiana
brittanyc@stlandryed.com