Crawford Partnership’s Interim Executive Director Announces Departure

From the Crawford Partnership

The current Interim Executive Director of the Crawford Partnership, Sarah Herrle, has announced her departure from the Crawford County Partnership for Education and Economic Development (Crawford Partnership) effective February 19.   Herrle stepped into the interim role in August following the departure of the organization’s previous leader, and after more than five years at The Partnership is stepping down to accept a position at a non-profit organization closer to her home.

“Over the years that Sarah has served Crawford County at the Partnership, she has constantly demonstrated a high level of professionalism and conscientious effort,” said Cindy Wood, Board Chair of The Crawford Partnership.  “She stepped up when we needed an interim leader for the organization, and she has led the organization with great energy and care while in that role. We will miss her contributions and strong work ethic, and we wish her well in her future endeavors.”

Herrle accepted the role of Economic Development Director and Interim Executive Director upon the departure of David Zak, who left the organization to lead the Ohio Economic Development Association. Prior to Zak, Gary Frankhouse led the organization for seven years after succeeding Dave Williamson, the organization’s founding director.

Herrle began her tenure at the Partnership as a Marketing and Project Coordinator, providing support across all three areas of development: economic, community, and workforce. She played a pivotal role in the countywide leadership program, CU Lead, serving as a key supporter and ultimately facilitating the program during her final two years. Transitioning into an economic development role, she helped drive business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts, connecting businesses with vital resources and programs. Details of these and other Partnership initiatives may be found at www.crawfordpartnership.org.

A search committee comprised of members of The Partnership’s Executive Committee has initiated efforts to identify and recruit an interim Executive Director in order to maintain the organization’s momentum while conducting a nationwide search for its next economic development director and executive director.

“I have enjoyed serving Crawford County over the past five and a half years, stated Herrle. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to connect with businesses, provide them with programs and resources, and facilitate CU Lead. With these experiences, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know and work alongside our remarkable local leaders. This organization and the community it serves will always hold a special place in my heart, and I know its best days are ahead.”


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