Staff

Full-time staff Wayne Schell Message from the President President and Chief Executive Officer wschell@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 106 Wayne has practiced economic development in California for over 3 decades. It only takes a couple of minutes in conversation with Wayne to see he has a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as an enthusiastic drive to help economic developers be successful in their pursuit of creating prosperous, sustainable communities. It is no wonder that he has lead the CALED team for over 15 years and is one of the founders of the association. Gurbax Sahota Chief Operating Officer for CALED & Executive Director for the CA Academy For Economic Development gsahota@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 105 Gurbax learned first hand the value of economic development when she interned at CALED many years ago. The experience of working with the economic development community compelled her to come back to CALED some years later and help promote awareness of what economic development is and why it is important. She is devoted to helping others reach their goals through effective communications and outreach programs. Her primary aim is to help CALED members by making sure our programs and services meet their needs. Paula Connors Executive Director, California Enterprise Development Authority (CEDA) pconnors@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 102 Paula's experience in local economic development spans over 20 years. Her extensive background in economic development financing and passion for helping members makes her the prefect person to run CEDA, a joint powers authority formed specifically to undertake economic development financing. If you are in need of financing for your manufacturers or just looking for information on what programs can assist you, Paula is the one to talk to. My Kristy Nong Office Manager mknong@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 103 Kristy Nong is a fairly recent addition to the CALED staff. As Office Manager, she is responsible for general administration including bookkeeping, membership support and maintaining the CALED office. She has a strong, outgoing personality and a passion for working with others. If you have questions regarding registration for events, payments, or general information about membership, contact Kristy. Part-time Staff Rachael Alexander Executive Assistant ralexander@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 100 Rachael is studying hard to be a teacher and brings that same energy to supporting the CALED Team in responding to members. She is also the driving force behind CALED's job opportunities postings. If you need general assistance or have questions about posting a job opportunity, Rachael can help you. Lynn La Research & Communications Associate lla@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 104 As a Research and Communications Associate, Lynn is responsible for researching recent economic development news in California, as well as keeping an eye on relevant legislative issues that may affect local economies. She also helps expand CALED’s web-based communications, making it easier for members to stay well informed and access relevant and timely information on economic development issues. Pernell Sullivan Research Associate, CEDA psullivan@caled.org 916-448-8252 ext. 101 Pernell joined the CALED team in the fall of 2007 from CA EPA's Air Resource Board. He assists Paula Connors by conducting research and providing support for the recently established financing authority, CEDA (California Enterprise Development Authority). He is currently pursuing a degree in Finance and Risk Management with a minor in Marketing and is enthusiastic about graduating soon. Contract Support Bill Davis Technical Assistance & Professional Advisory Service Kay Reynolds California Tools for Business Success Program kreynolds@toolsforbusiness.info 209 296-8225 Carolyn Usinger California Tools for Business Success Program cusinger@toolsforbusiness.info 866 429-1527