Haley Makela Elected to Wisconsin Economic Development Association Board of Directors
The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) has elected Haley Makela to its Board of
Directors. Makela currently serves as Entrepreneur Resource Coordinator for the Ashland Area Development Corporation. The Board election took place last week at WEDA’s Governor’s Conference on Economic Development, which was held in Milwaukee, WI.
“I’m excited to join the WEDA Board and represent Northern Wisconsin. Our area has so much potential, and I’m happy to have an opportunity to be a voice for the businesses and communities that make it special,” said Makela. “I look forward to working with our partners throughout Wisconsin to support economic growth and create more opportunities for the entrepreneurs and businesses that call the Chequamegon Bay area home.”
Makela, who began working for the Ashland Area Development Corporation in June 2023 to drive business growth and success in the region, has a diverse background in academia and banking. She previously served as a visiting assistant professor at Finlandia University and has held multiple positions in the banking industry. Makela is a Finlandia University graduate and holds a master’s degree in management from Briar Cliff University.
“WEDA is excited to have Haley join our board of directors. We welcome her leadership and innovative approach to economic development,” said Kathryn Berger, interim WEDA President and CEO. “Our members value Haley’s expertise and are confident in her ability to help WEDA advance economic growth and prosperity across Wisconsin.”
