EMILY MEISNER, LA PLATA COUNTY EDA RECEIVES ‘ROOKIE OF THE YEAR’ FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OF COLORADO
Top people, places and projects in economic development honored at annual awards dinner and ceremony.
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO (Oct. 21, 2021) – Emily Meisner was awarded ‘Rookie of the Year’ award for 2021. The honor was presented at EDCC’s annual EDIE Awards Ceremony held in conjunction with its annual Drive|Lead|Succeed Conference held in Steamboat Springs, Colorado last week.
“I am both humbled and honored to receive the Rookie of the Year award,” stated Meisner. “I look forward to many more years of Economic Development work.”
Since 1989, EDCC has recognized nearly 200 members, volunteers, communities, companies, and legislators for their outstanding achievement in economic development in the State of Colorado. This year, EDCC celebrated the achievements of 10 individuals, communities, partners, and legislators.
Emily was selected this year for the ‘Rookie of the Year’ award for her outstanding achievements in the following activities:
- A self-taught, action-oriented individual, Emily coordinated with multiple organizations to enact an emergency response and recovery effort for area businesses. Emily facilitated a bulk program that gave businesses access to the coveted personal protective equipment at reduced prices and in some cases free.
- Emily implemented and managed the COVID-19 Five-star program for her community
- Additionally, Emily manages the Bond to Business program. A bond initiative that infused the Durango School District with more than $90M in funding for capital projects and improvements. Part of the promise to the community included engagement and support of local businesses and vendors in the bond projects. As an effort to uphold that promise, 9-R has partnered with the La Plata County Economic Development Alliance (LPCEDA) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to launch a local engagement and support program, called 9-R Bond to Business. This ‘never-been-done-before’ program has employed local contractors, keeping as much of the dollars spent, local.
“This year’s winners represent the forefront of economic development achievement and premier talent that contribute to the overall health and vibrancy of our Colorado’s communities,” said 2021 EDCC Board Chair and Region 9 Economic Development District of Southwest Colorado, Executive Director, Laura Lewis Marchino. “We are so proud to recognize and showcase these individuals and organizations, that improve the quality of life for our citizens.”
Each of these winners, give a glimpse into what our professionals and stakeholders – here in Colorado – are doing, in keeping Colorado’s economy moving forward. More than ever, the value and importance of sustainable economic development, needs to be shined upon as we power the great economic comeback. EDCC is honored to represent these winners and their important work and achievements.