Anna Nelson Appointed as Economic Development Executive Director for Williston North Dakota

The Williston City Commission has officially appointed Anna Nelson as the new Executive Director of Williston Economic Development. The announcement came on Tuesday, August 13th, during the city commission meeting, with Nelson set to begin her role on September 9th, 2024.

Nelson, 34, succeeds Shawn Wenko, who has been the Executive Director since 2014 before his promotion to City Administrator in May 2023. The search for Wenko’s successor began in January 2024, with Nelson emerging as the top candidate after a thorough selection process.

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“The City of Williston conducted an extensive search that yielded several qualified candidates. In the end, Anna stood out as the next one we felt could move the office in the right direction,” said Wenko. “The definition of economic development has significantly changed over the years, focusing not only on the primary sector but also on quality of life, childcare, and small business. Anna’s experiences and connections during her time with the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce are the perfect fit.”

Nelson has served as the President of the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce for the past two years, bringing a wealth of experience to her new role. Her diverse background includes work as a television anchor and producer and experience in the fashion industry as a lead sales representative and apparel buyer. Despite her varied career, Nelson’s roots are firmly planted in North Dakota, where she spent her formative years in Rolla before moving to Williston in 2021.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new position, Nelson said, “This community quickly stole my heart with its warm, friendly people, small-town feel, and vibrant economy. I am grateful to continue serving the community and its businesses while helping to ensure the economic landscape fosters continued growth in Williston and the surrounding region.”

Congratulations, Anna, from all of us at Townsquare Media - Williston!