Personnel

  • Connie Ova


    Chief Executive Officer

    Connie OvaConnie is responsible for formulation and implementation of strategies leading to development of primary sector industries to the region, and retention/expansion of existing primary sector businesses. Connie began employment with JSDC as Training and Projects Coordinator and accepted the position of CEO in November of 2003. She has been instrumental in developing partnerships among many community entities. She assisted with coordination of SE ND Manufacturers Roundtable, packaged several business expansions and startups, and developed relationships with several firms considering location in Jamestown. Connie has a BS Degree in Business Administration/Management. She previously worked for the James Valley Vocational Center as Program Coordinator for Adult Farm Business Management. Connie is married and has one son. She enjoys hunting, fishing, boating and gardening.

    Email Connie Ova: connie@growingjamestown.com

  • DeAnn Brunner


    Business Development Coordinator

    DeAnn BrunnerAs the Business Development Coordinator DeAnn will focus most of her time on retention and expansion of local business through coordinating the Business Retention and Expansion program for the JSDC. DeAnn will also assist new start-ups by helping with site location, developing incentive packages, and building relationships. She will assist Connie on the development and implementation of strategies that will lead to growth and retention to the Jamestown/Stutsman area. DeAnn has a BA Degree in Communications and Business Administration/Management from Jamestown College. She is working towards becoming a certified economic developer. DeAnn is married and has two children. She enjoys the great outdoors and loves to garden.

    Email DeAnn Brunner: deann@growingjamestown.com

  • Holly Miller


    Marketing/ Workforce Developer

    Holly MillerHolly handles marketing and administrative detail for all JSDC projects, and coordinates and facilitates JSDC meetings. She assists Connie and DeAnn in business/jobs development, strategic planning, and the implementation of the JSCD strategic plan. Holly also manages the Regional Workforce Roundtable and focuses on workforce development. Holly has owned/operated and sold three businesses, including Jamestown’s Waggin’ Tails Doggy Daycare & Hotel. She is the mother of two children, and enjoys local outdoor activities.

    Email Holly Miller: holly@growingjamestown.com

  • Leah Olmstead


    JSDC Intern

    Leah OlmsteadLeah will be instrumental in helping the JSDC with their new and ongoing projects.She will have her hand in almost every aspect of the JSDC. Leah is a senior at Jamestown College, majoring in English with a minor in Creative Writing. Leah is originally from Fargo, North Dakota. In her spare time she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, and scrapbooking.