Organizational Update
The Rochester Downtown Alliance (RDA) Board of Directors would like to share that Executive Director, Jenna Bowman, will be stepping away from her role on Thursday, July 19, 2018. Bowman has accepted the newly created Communications & Engagement Manager position with the City of Rochester.
She was hired in May 2014 following a three-month search process. During her time with the RDA, Bowman championed and provided leadership on several different initiatives and projects. These have included the brand refresh, the creation of two new events, the introduction of passive programming, a quarterly print newsletter, the PlaceMakers Prototyping Festival, and a focus on data collection and reporting. In addition, during Bowman’s tenure the organizational budget grew by approximately 50 percent, a reserves fund was established, and the team grew to a full-time staff of five.
RDA Board of Directors Chair Al Mannino shared, “The RDA Board of Directors would like to thank Jenna for the dedication, service, and inspiring leadership she has provided over the past four years. She will continue to be an asset to Downtown - and to the entire community - in her new role with the City of Rochester.”
When asked about the transition Bowman shared, “I am incredibly proud of where the RDA is today. It has truly been an honor to serve as the Executive Director these past four years. The stakeholders and our community partners are what truly make Downtown Rochester unique and vibrant. While it is never easy to step away from work you are committed to and are passionate about, I know that there is both a strong internal team and Board of Directors to welcome in a new leader. I look forward to remaining active in the Rochester community and witnessing the continued growth and success of the RDA.”
The RDA Board of Directors will share more about an interim plan and an Executive Director search in the coming days.