Mike Maraist, a prominent figure in Lafayette and owner of Le Triomphe Golf & Country Club in Broussard, passed away. Throughout his career, Maraist achieved success in various industries and made significant contributions to both the business and academic communities in the region.
One of Maraist’s most notable donations was his $2.5 million gift to the Moody College of Business at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, which led to the creation of the Maraist Financial Services Lab in 2018. This lab featured state-of-the-art facilities and equipment to support students’ learning in finance and business.
Maraist graduated from UL in 1971 and had a strong connection to the university, with three generations of his family having attended UL. His banking career began at a young age when he was named president of Acadiana Bank in Eunice at only 24 years old, becoming the youngest bank president in the country. Despite challenges in the industry during the 1980s, Maraist successfully transitioned to the oilfield service sector.
In addition to his business ventures, Maraist held real estate properties in Texas and New Mexico, with Le Triomphe Golf & Country Club being one of his most recognizable local investments. Under his ownership, the club underwent significant renovations and has been a prominent site for the Chitimacha Louisiana Open.
Mike Maraist will be remembered as a compassionate and caring individual who had a positive impact on the community. Councilman John Guilbeau described him as a “downright super person” who made significant contributions to business, education, and sports in Lafayette that will leave a lasting legacy.
