Heather’s focus is on aligning the communication strategy of Southwest Michigan First with the organization's mission and the current business and community environment.  In addition, she researches industry, regional and economic development trends in order to further Southwest Michigan First’s marketing efforts and to help the organization analyze potential opportunities.  Heather is responsible for the management of media communications, both locally and nationally, and the organization’s website. 

Heather is co-author of the recently published book, Community Capitalism:  Lessons from Kalamazoo and Beyond, which highlights Southwest Michigan First's economic development strategy.  She is also responsible for producing the organization's weekly television segment, Business First, which airs on Sunday mornings in West Michigan at 9:05 am during CBS Sunday Morning on NEWSCHANNEL3.

Heather graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Arts in History with honors. Prior to joining Southwest Michigan First, she worked for Accenture where she designed and developed training for the insurance, consumer products and retail industries. At Accenture, Heather also served as a human resource specialist responsible for the scheduling and professional development of consulting practice personnel.