Remembering Skipper Post
Remembering Skipper Post. Raymond G. "Skipper" Post Jr., FAIA, a visionary architect and dedicated community leader, built an extraordinary legacy through his architectural achievements and civic engagement. He played a pivotal role in shaping Baton Rouge’s skyline and civic landscape, most notably through his involvement in master planning the Louisiana Capitol Complex and revitalizing downtown via the Plan Baton Rouge initiative. His firm contributed to over 1,000 master planning and architectural projects, including the LSU College of Coast and Environment, the Galvez State Office Building, phases of the River Center and the 19th Judicial District Courthouse. As a dedicated Rotarian, Skipper led the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge’s Centennial Sculpture project, "Sing the River", commemorating the city’s 100th anniversary.
Beyond architecture, Skipper served as a founding board member and president of the Arts and Humanities Council and president of the Louisiana Arts & Science Center. His leadership earned him the title of Businessperson of the Year from the Greater Baton Rouge Business Report in 2002. His influence also extended nationally; he served as the 72nd president of the American Institute of Architects in 1996 and later as Chancellor of the AIA College of Fellows. His mentorship and expertise were invaluable to fellow professionals, particularly through his extensive experience with downtown projects.
Boo Thomas, a prominent leader of Plan Baton Rouge and the Mid-City Redevelopment Alliance who knew Skipper Post well, reflected on his impact, stating, “In 1998, when the Plan Baton Rouge initiative began, Skipper Post was quick to offer his expertise and mentorship. His dedication to supporting fellow professionals was genuine and far-reaching. His extensive experience with downtown projects made him a trusted advisor to many, earning him a stellar reputation across Baton Rouge, Louisiana and beyond. Skipper’s legacy as an architect, community leader and mentor remains impactful and deeply appreciated by those who had the privilege of working with him.”
Whitney Hoffman Sayal, DDD executive director, is grateful for her mentorship from Skipper Post. She states, “Skipper has had an immense impact on Downtown Baton Rouge’s built environment and landscape. I was fortunate to have worked with him on the Rotary Centennial Sculpture ‘Sing the River’ project and learned a lot from him during the process – not just about construction and project management, but also about being a community leader. When I became the DDD Executive Director he would always send me a note of congratulations when he learned of any new developments happening downtown and was also available whenever I needed his advice. I will miss his mentorship and words of encouragement greatly.”
Skipper is remembered as a talented architect, visionary leader and generous mentor whose legacy will continue to shape Baton Rouge and beyond.
