Kelly Wawsczyk has been serving central Michigan for over 20 years. In March, the former White Cloud High School graduate was named the new Executive Director of the Mecosta County Development Corporation.
“My goal is to build trusting relationships with the businesses and individuals in the county,” Wawscyzk said on her new position. “I am here for the people and industries to grow Mecosta County.”
Not only is she going through a change, but the group as whole is also undergoing a unique shift. With the help of Wawsczyk, the Development Corporation has begun a partnership with The Right Place: another development organization devoted to promoting economic growth in the greater Grand Rapids area.
“The Right Place is a regional economic development organization funded through investments from the private and public sectors,” Wawsczyk said. “They have made it possible to provide region wide resources that were not available prior.”
Wawsczyk previously held a project coordinator assistant position with the Headway Coalition in Newaygo County, where she would “assist the actions teams in collecting data and building community support.”
Prior, she helped build a marketing program with the Legends Ranch and served in public health with District Health Department 10 for over 12 years. Wawsczyk studied her skills of marketing, sales, health and wellness, and administration through Penn Foster College and Career School.
Whether its inside or outside the office, there is one important focus to Kelly: building relationships.
“I thrive off community interaction while providing support as needed. I enjoy bringing my personal circle together to help make lasting memories while building stronger connections.”
Wawsczyk has also worked in community volunteer roles with many nationwide organizations like the American Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America, United Way, and the Special Olympics Polar Plunge. She also has served with many local organizations like Newaygo County Tourism Council, Newago County Emergency Preparedness, and the Merrill Township Planning Commission.
Outside of the office, Wawsczyk enjoys spending time out in nature. This includes participating in a ladies hiking and paddling group, named “Girls Gone Wilderness.” She also enjoys spending time with her family, which incorporates ignoring a common concept other fellow Michiganders follow in the spring.
“My husband Derek and I have never taken our kids to Florida for Spring Break. The memories they remember are growing up camping along the Muskegon River and hiking the trails in our area. Mecosta County has so many natural beauties to experience.”
If there is one thing Wawsczyk would like the community to know, it’s that she is committed to making this area the best it can be.
“This is my home. I want to see it grow and thrive for our future generations to come. Mecosta County is on fire and there is so many great things happening.”
