Mlekush and Rasmussen Appointed to Pan-American Life Board

John J. Kelly, chairman of the Board of New Orleans-based Pan- American Life Insurance Company, announced the appointments of Kenneth C. Mlekush and Nicholas R. Rasmussen to the company’s Board.

Both have extensive financial services experience, including senior executive positions with prominent life insurance companies. They are filling two existing vacancies on the Board.

“As the challenges and opportunities in our industry continue to expand, it’s critical that Pan-American include on our Board the deep experience and insurance expertise of these proven leaders,” said José Suquet, president and CEO of Pan-American Life. “Mr. Mlekush and Mr. Rasmussen are accomplished professionals who have worked in our industry for many years leading preeminent companies. We are fortunate to have them serve on our Board.”

Kenneth C. Mlekush most recently served as vice-chairman of Jefferson-Pilot Corporation, one of the nation’s largest shareholder-owned life insurance companies, providing financial services through a network of 2,300 independent professionals. He previously served as president of Jefferson- Pilot’s Life Companies and held other senior management positions at the company.

Mlekush began his insurance career in 1961 as an agent. Prior to joining Jefferson-Pilot, he served as president and chief operating officer of Southland Life; as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Sun Life of America; and, as president and chief executive officer of Columbia National Corporation.

Nicholas R. Rasmussen served as executive vice president and chief financial officer of American General Corporation until his retirement in 2002. Headquartered in Houston, Texas since its founding in 1926, American General, which was acquired by American International Group in 2001, was one of the nation’s largest diversified financial services organizations and a leader in retirement services, life insurance, and consumer loans.

During his 28 years with American General, Rasmussen held numerous executive and senior management positions, including chief financial officer, chief investment officer, head of mergers and acquisitions, and treasurer.

Before joining American General he was a nuclear consultant and also served as a nuclear engineering officer on a submarine in the United States Navy.