Sheldon Johnson to Serve as Wisconsin Economic Development Association Board Chair
The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) has selected Sheldon Johnson as the association’s next Chairman of the Board of Directors. Johnson currently serves as the Executive Director of the Northwest Regional Planning Commission. Johnson’s selection as WEDA’s Board Chair took place at the organization’s annual meeting on February 2, 2023, during the WEDA Governor’s Conference on Economic Development.
“I look forward to serving as WEDA Board Chair and representing our members and partners in economic development,” said Johnson. “Wisconsin’s success relies on a team of professionals dedicated to pursuing economic development opportunities and spurring growth at the community, county, and regional levels. WEDA members are an essential part of that team, and I am honored to be leading them in 2023.”
Johnson, a long-time WEDA Board member who previously served as the association’s treasurer and vice-board chair, has been with the Northwest Regional Planning Commission for over 28 years, including the last seven as executive director after serving as deputy director and senior planner. Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in urban studies from the University of Minnesota Duluth.
“WEDA is thrilled to have Sheldon serve as our Chairman of the Board for the upcoming year,” said WEDA President and CEO Mary Perry. “We will rely heavily on his strong leadership, experience, and unique perspective on rural economic development as we continue to work to promote economic growth and prosperity in every corner of the state.”
Johnson follows Donna Walker, who served as WEDA’s Board Chair for 2022. Walker will continue to serve on the WEDA Board as Immediate Past-Board Chair.
About WEDA
The Wisconsin Economic Development Association, founded in 1975, is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to growing Wisconsin’s economy. Driven by the needs of our 400-plus members, we represent the economic development interests of both the private and public sectors through advocacy, education, and leadership on statewide initiatives.
