Rusk named CDAEDC executive director

The Coeur d'Alene Area Economic Development Corporation has selected Mysty Rusk as its next executive director, choosing an experienced nonprofit and community leader to guide the organization's economic development efforts across Kootenai County and the greater North Idaho region.

Rusk will begin her new role Aug. 17, succeeding the organization's leadership at a time when North Idaho continues to experience significant population growth, business investment, and workforce development opportunities.

"After an extensive search process, the Board of Directors is excited to welcome Mysty as our next Executive Director," CDAEDC Board Chair Brad Marshall said. "Mysty impressed us with her depth of experience, her collaborative approach to leadership, and her passion for helping communities grow and prosper. We are confident in her ability to help advance the economic vitality of Kootenai County and North Idaho by working with businesses, strengthening our partnerships, and engaging our investors."

The Coeur d'Alene Area Economic Development Corporation is a private, investor-supported organization focused on strengthening the regional economy through business recruitment, retention, and expansion; job creation; workforce partnerships; strategic planning; and collaboration among business, education, and public sector leaders.

Marshall said Rusk emerged from a competitive search process because of her leadership experience, financial expertise, and demonstrated ability to build strong partnerships that deliver measurable results.

The Board of Directors also expressed its sincere appreciation to Wally Jacobson, executive director of the Panhandle Area Council, for his exemplary service as interim executive director during the leadership transition.

"Wally stepped forward at a critical time and provided steady, thoughtful leadership that ensured the organization remained focused on its mission and continued serving our investors and the broader community," Marshall said. "His professionalism, dedication, and commitment to our community have been invaluable to our organization. On behalf of the Board, we extend our deepest gratitude for the remarkable job he has done leading the CDAEDC during this transition period."

Throughout her career, Rusk has led organizations through strategic planning, fundraising, organizational growth, and governance improvements. She has developed collaborative relationships across both the public and private sectors and was recognized during the selection process for her hands-on leadership style and commitment to helping organizations achieve long-term success.

Rusk said she is eager to begin working with the organization's investors, community partners, and business leaders to build on the region's economic momentum.

"I am honored and excited to join the CDAEDC and serve this incredible community," Rusk said. "North Idaho has tremendous strengths, talented people, and extraordinary opportunities ahead. I look forward to working alongside our members and community stakeholders to build on that momentum and help create a strong and vibrant future for the region."

As executive director, Rusk will oversee the organization's strategic direction, daily operations, investor relations, regional partnerships, and economic development initiatives. She will work closely with the CDAEDC Board of Directors, local governments, educational institutions, and the business community to support sustainable economic growth throughout North Idaho.