Joint IDA Selects New Associate Director

WYTHEVILLE—The Joint Industrial Development Authority of Wythe County, Wytheville, and Rural Retreat is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has selected Kimberly Simmons as the authority’s new associate director.

Ms. Simmons received her Bachelor of Science degree Summa Cum Laude in mathematics with a concentration in statistics from Radford University. A native of Wythe County, she is currently a resident of Pulaski. Prior to joining the Joint IDA, Ms. Simmons was Program Manager for Virginia Economic Bridge, Inc., located in Radford. At VEB she was integrally involved in marketing, business recruitment, and workforce assessment, among other activities. She has also worked with New River Community College in the past.

Ms. Simmons will fill the position previously held by Patrick Burton, who last year returned to the New River Planning District Commission, where he had been employed prior to joining the Joint IDA. The associate director takes lead responsibility for the Joint IDA’s existing industry program as well as performing research and support roles for the authority’s recruitment efforts. Joint IDA Chair Linda DiYorio said,

“The Joint IDA Board is extremely pleased to have Kimber Simmons join our staff. She brings a depth of experience and knowledge of working with organizations and agencies throughout the Commonwealth that will greatly benefit our efforts of job creation. We look forward to working with her.”

“I am excited for the opportunity to work with the dedicated staff and Board of Directors of the Joint IDA. Wythe County has always been dear to my heart, and I look forward to doing my part to assist with the area’s continued growth,” Ms. Simmons said.