The Northeast Kingdom Collaborative is searching for a new director after Katherine Sims was elected to represent the Orleans-Caledonia district in the Vermont House of Representatives. Sims will begin her term in January.
The NEKC focuses on improving quality of life in the region through community-led economic development. The organization convenes residents, experts, and stakeholders to identify priorities and implement initiatives. In recent years, it launched leadership programs including the NEK Leads Summit and the NEK Womxn Lead Network.
Sims joined the NEKC in 2017 and was credited with expanding its regional impact. “Her skills as a facilitator, combined with an unrelenting passion for our corner of the state, have been invaluable,” said board chair Jody Fried.
During the pandemic, the NEKC created a regional resource directory and the NEK Recovery Plan, which targets broadband, housing, childcare, and small business support.
Board member Tom Lovett will serve as interim director starting January 1, with support from communications director Carey Crozier. The board plans to recruit a permanent director by April 1. “We are a catalyst for change then we step back,” Sims said of the collaborative’s role.
Photo: Gustavo Fring via Pexels. Photo is illustrative and not from the scene.
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