Albion EDC Introduces Recent Hires, Scales its Team for Increased Impact

For Immediate Release
November 13, 2024

Media Contacts:
Shelby Carter, Account Manager
LKF Marketing
mediareleases@lkfmarketing.com
269.585.4163

Virgie Ammerman, President & CEO
Albion Economic Development Corporation
vammerman@albionedc.org
517.781.4535

Albion EDC Introduces Recent Hires, Scales its Team for Increased Impact

ALBION, Mich.— The Albion Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) is proud to announce the addition of several professionals to its team. These new hires bring a broad range of experience and backgrounds to the organization, enhancing AEDC's capacity to drive economic growth and community development for everyone in the greater Albion community.

“Since June 2024, we have carefully crafted an eclectic yet cohesive team here at the Albion Economic
Development Corporation. I am excited to introduce these talented and passionate individuals,” said AEDC President and CEO Virgie Ammerman.

“Our organization’s dedication to fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life in Albion is a
reflection of the people on our team who are making connections, uncovering resources, and building
momentum. This team is well positioned to achieve our strategic initiatives, build additional partnerships, and provide transformative programs to support businesses, create jobs, and empower the local community,” she added.

Newly filled roles and employees include:

• Grant Writer & Project Analyst – Margaret Avery, MPA – Originally from the Albion/Homer area, Avery brings a rich background in managing statewide political campaigns and nonprofit advocacy programs, a passion for social change, and a deep commitment to eliminating systemic injustices. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and women, gender, and sexuality; and an MPA in public policy analysis, advocacy, and evaluation. Avery is excited to use her skills to support AEDC’s mission to improve the local economic landscape equitably.
• Housing Solutions Advocate – Pastor Tim Kurtz – A lifelong resident of Albion, Kurtz has dedicated himself to philanthropic work for decades. In his role at AEDC, he primarily focuses on addressing homelessness and draws on his experiences including establishing The Walk for Warmth, the Jackson Affordable Housing Corporation, and Project HOME. He has also served as a senior pastor for over 30 years.
• Business Coach – Dichondra R. Johnson, MBA, MPA – Johnson brings over 30 years of experience in economic and workforce development. With a bachelor’s degree in arts administration and marketing, an MBA in marketing and global business, an MPA in state and local government administration, and as an alumnus of the Michigan Political Leadership Program, she has led initiatives across Michigan in employment, veterans’ affairs, and education strategy development. Her commitment to mentoring and community service aligns with AEDC's goals of sustainable economic growth and leadership development. She is also pursuing a Ph.D. in business and is an active community volunteer.
• Executive Assistant/Board Liaison – Jennifer Swanson – Having worked as a legal secretary for the State of Michigan and as a Deputy County Clerk for the 12th District Court, Swanson brings expertise in legal and public service to AEDC. Originally from Albion and now a resident of Jackson, her dedication to helping her community understand and navigate Michigan laws will help the organization navigate challenges and identify opportunities effectively.
• Grants & Program Administrator – Amber Kidder – With a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and forensic psychology and previous roles as a juvenile probation officer, community outreach specialist and coordinator, and children’s case manager, Kidder brings community advocacy and intervention experience to AEDC. Her background will help the organization prioritize needs and deploy opportunities that benefit individuals and the community as a whole.

Interns from Albion College also joined the AEDC team, including:

• Build Albion Fellow – Ta'Liyah Austin – Austin will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in business this spring. In addition to her studies, she is an entrepreneur, running her own hair and make-up businesses. After graduation, Austin plans to pursue real estate and open businesses locally to invest in the community and help inspire the next generation. In her community service and work with AEDC, Austin strives to set a positive example for youth and invest in her hometown.
• Build Albion Fellow – Atiyah Artis – Artis is a junior studying communications and expects to graduate in spring 2026. She is passionate about community engagement and has actively contributed to initiatives aimed at improving quality of life in Albion. Through her fellowship, Artis plans to continue making a meaningful impact by leveraging her communication skills and experiences to support AEDC’s mission.
• Albion College AmeriCorps Intern – Camila Tapia – Originally from Texas, Tapia is a junior majoring in economics and minoring in data analytics and expects to graduate in spring 2026. Her passion for addressing income inequality and economic segregation is a driving force in her work. At AEDC, she is responsible for executing grants through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s Community Development Block Grant Housing Improving Local Livability (CHILL) Program, which helps homeowners repair and insure their homes. Camila is committed to using her role to foster economic growth and create healthier, more connected communities.

“Individually and collaboratively, this team is on track to make big changes in greater Albion,” Ammerman said. “Please welcome them and join us in our efforts to stabilize and strengthen our community.”

For more information about Albion Economic Development Corporation, its new hires, and to support the
organization’s efforts, visit albionedc.org or call 517.629.3926.

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About Albion Economic Development Corporation:

AEDC is a publicly and grant-funded organization that works to attract and develop commercial and industrial businesses for sustainability and longevity by utilizing private and public grants, along with real estate transactions. With its entrepreneurial spirit, AEDC focuses on industrial, housing, commercial, community, workforce, and funding initiatives within the Albion regional area. AEDC seeks to cultivate a more economically prosperous future and a unified, equitable community.