FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, December 8, 2017
CONTACT: Kari Blom, kari@madisonworks.com, (605)256-0797
MADISON, S.D. – The Lake Area Improvement Corporation is searching for a new executive director. Former director Julie Gross left her post at the end of November to accept an appointment as State Director of the USDA Rural Development in South Dakota.
“Julie was a valuable asset to the LAIC, Madison and Lake County,” said LAIC President Paul Schultz. “As a lifelong resident of the area, her commitment to and passion for seeing our community succeed ran deep, and we couldn’t be more grateful for her service.”
Gross began her role as executive director in 2012. Before that, she served as executive director of the Greater Madison Area Chamber of Commerce.
During her time with the LAIC, Gross successfully conducted a capital campaign garnering over $1 million to be used for economic development in Lake County. Under her leadership, the community experienced business expansion, housing growth, new and enhanced partnerships and an efficiently run organization.
She also launched a community English as a Second Language program three years ago which continues to grow. In addition, she oversaw the construction and sale of the LAIC’s first spec building in the Lakeview Industrial Park and the start of a second spec building. She also served on a number of boards and committees in the community.
“Julie has a great understanding of what it takes to make rural communities thrive,” added Schultz.
Gross remains committed to the Madison community as she and her husband Allan continue to reside on their farm just north of town. She affirmed her commitment at the Forward Madison Investor Social held just before her departure from the LAIC.
“In my new role, I will continue working hard for Madison and for South Dakota, just in a different capacity,” said Gross. “USDA has many partners in Madison including the LAIC, REED, Sioux Valley Energy and Heartland.”
The LAIC is currently seeking a new executive director. Applications can be submitted through December 11 to the LAIC Office in Madison. A complete job description can be found on the LAIC’s jobs website at www.madisonworks.com - jobs.
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