Wooster, Ohio, June 10, 2021 – The Wayne Economic Development Council (WEDC) is pleased to announce Maribeth Burns has been appointed as president of the WEDC by its board of directors. Burns will replace John Crum, former CEO of Seaman Corp. who had been serving as interim president during the search for a permanent replacement.
Burns, a resident of Wayne County, has more than 30 years of leadership experience with The J.M. Smucker Co. in communications, government relations, and community relations and has been actively involved in numerous Wayne County organizations and initiatives throughout her career.
“We are excited to appoint Maribeth as president and are looking forward to the contributions she will provide to the WEDC as we leverage her vast experience and strong leadership capabilities. She will be of great value in further building on our mission to promote and facilitate business retention and strategic business growth in Wayne County. As a former WEDC Board member, she fully understands the importance of the WEDC and the positive impact the organization can have on Wayne County,” said Don Noble II, WEDC Board Chair.
Andrew Dix, Past WEDC Chairman of the Board added, “Coming off an unprecedented year, we are fortunate that Wayne County is well-positioned for continued growth, and we are confident Maribeth will expand the WEDC’s impact as a significant force for economic development in Northeast Ohio. She has been a tireless advocate in Wayne County for many years and has valuable experience working in many communities throughout the U.S. during her career.”
“Wayne County has been my home for many years, and I am thrilled by the opportunity to lead the WEDC and to continue having a positive impact here,” said Maribeth Burns. “I look forward to collaborating with our partners to ensure we are focused on strengthening and retaining existing businesses, working hard to attract new quality businesses, and delivering high-quality professional economic development services.”
Burns, a graduate of Ashland University, has been involved in Wayne County serving on the Boards of The Wayne County Community Foundation, The Orrville Area Boys and Girls Club, Aultman Orrville, the Aultman Health Foundation, Heartland Education Community, Inc., and OrrViews. Burns previously served on the Boards of the WEDC and the Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce. Burns was recently named as the 2020 recipient of the Paul Powell Citizen of the Year award by The Orrville Area Chamber of Commerce honoring her service and contributions to the community.
About The Wayne Economic Development Council: Founded in 1989, The Wayne Economic Development Council is a public-private partnership dedicated to the economic development of Wayne County and Northeast Ohio. In serving the interests of the local community, the WEDC's primary role is to stimulate new capital investment and job growth through business expansion and attraction initiatives.
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