Terri Castelaz/Daily News photo Mindy Meyers was selected as director of the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance in March, following the retirement of Lois Ellis.

IRON MOUNTAIN — Going into 2024, the Dickinson Area Economic Development Alliance moved through a leadership transition as Mindy Meyers was named the new executive director.

Meyers took over in March after the retirement of Lois Ellis, who started with the DAEDA in 2018.

In this role, Meyers serves as the administrative officer of the organization and is responsible to the board of directors for a full range of activities, such as organizational structure and procedures, communications, budget and finance, and programs. She also oversees the creation and implementation of the organization’s strategic economic and community development plans.

Before Ellis fully retired, Meyers spent eight weeks working with her to successfully transfer the ongoing work of the Alliance’s task force groups and active projects.

“There was a lot of overlap time to make it as seamless as possible,” Meyers said. “It was a wonderful opportunity to get to work with Lois and gain her insights from this position.”

Meyers was introduced to the Alliance investors and the existing network of resource partners. She even had the opportunity to make a trip to Lansing with Ellis.

“It has truly been a pleasure working with the community and businesses in the Dickinson area,” Ellis said. “Together, we have accomplished so much, and I look forward to seeing the area continue to develop under Mindy’s leadership.”

During her time as the program director for the Iron Mountain Downtown Development Authority, Meyers worked with Ellis on development projects within the downtown. That allowed her to learn more about the Alliance and its mission.

She believes her experience with the DDA has brought much into her new role, including collaborating with many of the same community members and volunteers.

“I’m excited to be able to work with these great members of the community again for the progress of the Dickinson County area,” she said.

Meyers also noted that she gained many different skills in her position with Radio Results Network, like how to effectively speak with people. “It was a wonderful experience,” she adds. “I learned more about myself as well.”

She expressed her appreciation for the support system within the DAEDA, from the executive community, board of directors to the Lake Superior Community Partnership.

“That is the one thing I really love about the job and I say it every chance I get,” Meyers said, adding those connections will help her follow in Ellis’ footsteps.

Chair of the Alliance Tony Edlebeck said he’s confident Meyers will work hard to continue the successful growth and development of the area.

“Mindy has demonstrated leadership in community development during her tenure as program director of the Iron Mountain DDA. That, paired with her knowledge of the local community and her enthusiasm for continued growth in the area, made her the ideal candidate,” Edlebeck said. “We are confident Mindy will work hard to continue the successful growth and development of the area.”

“With years of experience cultivating relationships within the Dickinson County community and beyond and a strong foundation in community advocacy, I am eager to contribute my skills and expertise to further the mission of The Alliance,” Meyers said.

She looks forward to continuing to build upon Ellis’ impactful work.

“I definitely feel I am in the position I should be in,” she said. “I am grateful for all those who advocated for me — I love this job.”