New executive directors bring fresh perspectives to community organizations | Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service
Matthew Wisla
September 2, 2015
Corey Zetts, newly appointed executive director of Menomonee Valley Partners, discusses neighborhood issues at a recent input session. (Photo by Matthew Wisla)
In recent months, several prominent community-focused organizations have undergone leadership transitions. A change at the top creates the opportunity for new leaders to assess the organization’s direction, as well as the programs and initiatives affecting residents of the neighborhoods they serve.
The Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service surveyed four recently appointed executive directors: Laura Bray, LISC Milwaukee; Kristi Luzar, Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin (UEDA); Will Sebern, Layton Boulevard West Neighbors; and Corey Zetts, Menomonee Valley Partners. Edited versions of their comments and responses are below.
Asked about the challenges facing their organizations, two leaders mentioned migrating to new business models — Menomonee Valley Partners is focusing more on workforce development issues than in the past, and UEDA is emphasizing service contracts versus grant funding. Each new executive director discussed the importance of partnerships.
Laura Bray, Executive Director, LISC Milwaukee
Kristi Luzar, Executive Director, Urban Economic Development Association of Wisconsin
What is one thing you’d like to see local elected officials do to help residents in central city neighborhoods?
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We are coming to the end of a very violent summer in Milwaukee.  What can organizations like yours do to help address the situation?
Will Sebern, Executive Director, Layton Boulevard West Neighbors
Regardless of whether they were promoted from within, or if they were stepping into a new organization, each of the new executive directors prioritizes listening to the community.
Corey Zetts, Executive Director, Menomonee Valley Partners