From the Crawford Partnership

Following an extensive search process, The Crawford Partnership is pleased to announce the selection and hiring of Makenna Laser as its next leader. Laser will assume her new duties on Monday, August 25. Current Interim Executive Director Greg Timberlake will remain with the organization for a short period to assist with the transition and orientation.

“With the assistance of Spherion Staffing & Recruiting, we completed an extensive review of more than 170 potential candidates, 29 of whom formally applied. The full Board of Directors interviewed two finalists and provided valuable feedback and perspective on each candidate. Both were highly qualified and brought different strengths to the role,” said Kim Winkle, President of The Partnership’s Board of Directors. “We believe Makenna has the leadership skillset, drive, and can-do attitude that will allow her to excel in this role, and we are pleased to welcome her to Crawford County.”

Laser comes to The Crawford Partnership from the Greater Sandusky Partnership, where she had served in several roles – most recently as Workforce Development Manager. Previously, she had served as Interim Director and Operations Manager for Firelands Forward, an organizational precursor to the Greater Sandusky Partnership. She is a native of Norwalk, OH, and currently lives with her husband and daughter in Bellevue, OH.

Laser has extensive community involvement, including roles with the Norwalk Area United Fund, the Erie County Community Foundation, the North Point ESC Regional Business Advisory Council, and the Ottawa County Business Advisory Council. She is a member of the 2023 class of Project Leadership Huron County, and received the Norwalk Area United Fund’s Emerging Leader Award in 2021.

“I’m honored to join the Crawford Partnership and build on the momentum already underway. This community has a clear vision for growth, and I’m eager to work alongside local leaders to bring that vision to life. I’ve seen how impactful economic and community development can be when it’s rooted in strong relationships, and I’m excited to bring my experience in workforce and strategic partnerships to Crawford County.”