Rachel joined NWCCOG in 1999 and served as member services and communications coordinator for three years. She re-joined NWCCOG in 2008 as economic development director. She is responsible for overall management of the Economic Development District whose mission is to carry out programs and activities that serve to enhance the economic conditions and quality of life in our region. Rachel has a bachelor’s degree in economics and an M.B.A. from the State University of New York at Buffalo (SUNY Buffalo). She earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) in December 2018, which is a designation granted by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). She was born and raised in Buffalo, N.Y. and has lived in Summit County for the last 30 years. She raised twin boys in Summit County, who are now 22 and seniors in college. She enjoys xc and uphill skiing, cycling, reading, and being outdoors.