What's Happening?
The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Kelly Vickers as its new executive director. The decision was made at a special meeting held on September 25, following a rigorous and competitive
search process. Summers County Commissioner Ted Kula chaired the recruitment committee, which also included Raleigh County’s Heather Ouimette, Nicholas County Commissioner Craig Chapman, Summers County’s Larry Meador, and Fayette County’s Heather Johnson. Fayette County Commissioner and NRGRDA Board Chair Allison Rae Taylor served as an ex officio member and presented Vickers' candidacy to the board for a vote. Vickers was selected for her outstanding qualifications and inspiring leadership style, according to Kula. She currently serves as the chief financial officer and compliance manager for the West Virginia Solid Waste Management Board, where she provides executive financial and operational leadership across the state, working with various public authorities, boards, county commissions, state agencies, elected officials, and community stakeholders.
Why It's Important?
This appointment is significant for the economic development of the New River Gorge region in West Virginia. Kelly Vickers brings nearly two decades of public-sector executive experience in the state, encompassing strategic leadership, financial and organizational management, grants, compliance, board governance, public administration, and stakeholder engagement. Her background as an advisor to boards, executive leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders positions her to effectively lead the NRGRDA's mission. The NRGRDA plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth and opportunity within its four-county service area. Vickers' expertise is expected to enhance the authority's programs and partnerships, potentially leading to increased investment, job creation, and overall prosperity for the region. Her leadership could streamline development initiatives and improve collaboration among various local and state entities, ultimately benefiting residents and businesses in the New River Gorge.
What's Next?
Kelly Vickers will assume her new role as Executive Director of the NRGRDA, where she is expected to leverage her extensive experience to advance the organization's goals. Her immediate focus will likely involve familiarizing herself with ongoing projects and developing strategies to expand the NRGRDA's reach and impact. The board anticipates that Vickers will grow existing programs and forge new partnerships, leading to a lasting and unprecedented positive impact on the four-county region. Stakeholders, including local government officials, businesses, and community groups, will be looking to Vickers for leadership in addressing regional economic challenges and capitalizing on development opportunities. Her academic pursuits, including a second master's degree in business administration, suggest a commitment to continuous improvement and strategic thinking, which will be vital in her new leadership position.
Beyond the Headlines
The selection of Kelly Vickers underscores a broader trend in regional development authorities prioritizing experienced and highly qualified leadership to navigate complex economic landscapes. Her background in financial and compliance management, coupled with her advisory roles, suggests an emphasis on transparent and accountable governance within the NRGRDA. This appointment could serve as a model for other regional development bodies seeking to enhance their effectiveness through strong, experienced leadership. Furthermore, Vickers' deep roots in West Virginia and her commitment to public service indicate a potential for community-centric development approaches, ensuring that economic growth benefits a wide range of local stakeholders. Her leadership may also influence the strategic direction of regional planning, potentially integrating sustainable practices and innovative solutions into the New River Gorge's economic future.
