New Director of Economic Development

Lynchburg City Manager Kimball Payne announced the appointment of Marjette L. Glass as the Director of the City's Department of Economic Development. Glass replaces former director Mary Jane Russell who retired July 30.

Glass has served as the Business Relations Manager in the Department of Economic Development since 2005. She has previous experience in telecommunications, banking, and insurance. She is a graduate of Mary Baldwin College, Leadership Lynchburg, and the Lynchburg Citizens' Academy and is participating in the International Economic Development Council Certification Curriculum. Glass is an active volunteer in a number of civic organizations including the United Way of Central Virginia, CASA, Jefferson Choral Society, Lynch's Landing and Rotary. Lynchburg Living Magazine named her Best Civic Leader in 2004.

Glass's responsibilities include providing staff assistance to the Lynchburg Industrial Development Authority, managing the Authority's two industrial parks, business recruitment and retention, Enterprise Zone administration, participation in regional economic development initiatives, and partnering with other City organizations in downtown revitalization and other redevelopment activities. Particular areas of focus include workforce development and existing business outreach and assistance.

Payne stated, "I am pleased to have a person of Marjette's experience, energy, and enthusiasm in this position. She has already established a broad network of contacts in the business community and enjoys its support."

"I'm excited about the opportunity to continue and to expand upon the initiatives begun by the former director in our efforts to bolster Lynchburg's economic strength," said Glass.