Bowen resigns economic development job

Van Wert independent/economic development information

In a meeting with stakeholders Friday, Ohio State University Extension Educator and Economic Development Director Nancy Bowen announced her resignation, effective February 1, 2012.

Bowen is accepting the position of field specialist-community economics with the Ohio State University Extension. The position was created to work primarily on state-level economic development issues.

“I am very grateful for the opportunity to have served the Van Wert community for almost 13 years”, Bowen said. “Van Wert has many outstanding assets, the most prevalent of which is the people.

“The people really care about the future of Van Wert and demonstrate this through their commitment of time towards community economic development,” Bowen added.

She also noted that, although her new office will be in Lima, she would continue to live in Van Wert. Bowen will not, however, be directly involved in local economic development activities.

The local economic director said she was optimistic good things would happen in Van Wert County.

“I expect great things to continue to happen, especially with the Super Site and business development projects currently underway,” she noted. “The hard work invested by all involved will pay off.”

A national search will begin immediately by the Ohio State University Extension to fill Bowen’s position, with interviews conducted by a local advisory selection committee.