( BLACK PR WIRE)( February 24, 2009) NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- CastleOak Securities, L.P., a leading minority-owned investment bank, announced today that co-founding partner and General Counsel, Nathaniel H. Christian, has been appointed to the board of directors of the National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP). 

David R. Jones, President and Chief Executive Officer, CastleOak, commented, NASP is an extraordinary group and I think Nat’s appointment speaks volumes about his tireless efforts and dedication to furthering the organization’s mission. 

NASP is a trade association focused on issues that affect minorities and women who work in the financial services industry. Mr. Christian, who is also a member of CastleOaks recently formed TARP team, is currently a member of NASP's legislative committee. NASP’s legislative committee has been diligently working with the federal government as it seeks to address issues affecting the financial industry and broader economy. 

I am so thankful to my colleagues at NASP. They have given me an incredible opportunity to serve our constituencies at this pivotal time in the history of the financial services industry, said Mr. Christian. While we have already made major strides, we must continue to make it clear that we as an industry and as a nation are at our best, our most efficient, our most effective, when we realize that our diversity is one of our unique strengths. 

I am so pleased to announce Nat’s appointment. His qualities as a business leader and more importantly as a person are exactly what this organization needs, said Mark Willis, Chair of NASP’s Board of Directors. 

About NASP
The National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP) is a non-profit association of professionals in the securities industry. NASP brings together the nation’s minorities and women who have achieved recognition in the industry as brokers, asset managers, public finance consultants, investment bankers, bond counsel, commercial bank underwriters, investors, plan sponsors and other finance professionals. Founded in 1985, NASP is based in Washington, D.C. with nine chapters in major financial centers throughout the United States. 

About CastleOak Securities, L.P.
CastleOak Securities, L.P. is a leading minority-owned investment bank with an extensive suite of financial services including equity sales and trading, fixed income sales and trading, and financial advisory services. The firm offers clients expertise in primary and secondary market transactions, advice on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, valuations and general strategic assessments. Based in New York, with regional offices in Chicago and Atlanta, CastleOak is managed by a team of seasoned investment bankers who provide innovative, client-driven solutions that leverage their extensive professional experience, strong institutional relationships and keen market insight.
For more information, please visit www.castleoaklp.com.