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Momentum West Announces Board Leadership Transition
28 Mar 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Organization Welcomes New Board Members, Recognizes Departing Leaders
EAU CLAIRE, WI — Momentum West announced several leadership transitions and new appointments to its Board of Directors as the organization continues its mission to advance regional economic development across West Central Wisconsin.
Momentum West extends its sincere thanks to Timm Sandstrom of RCU, who recently completed his service as Board Chair. During his tenure, Sandstrom provided strong leadership and guidance as the organization advanced regional collaboration and economic development initiatives.
Taking over the role of Board Chair is Nick Vivian of Eckberg Lammers. Vivian brings extensive experience and regional commitment that will help continue Momentum West’s efforts to support economic growth and opportunity throughout the region.
“I would like to thank Timm for his exceptional leadership over the past year as Board Chair. Momentum West is a stronger organization because of Timm’s commitment, and his dedication to advancing economic development across West Central Wisconsin is greatly appreciated by the entire Board. Western Wisconsin continues to see tremendous opportunity for growth and investment. Momentum West plays an important role in bringing together leaders from business, government, and our communities to identify opportunities, strengthen regional collaboration, and promote initiatives that support economic development throughout the region,” said Vivian. “I am honored to step into the role of Board Chair and look forward to working with the Board, staff, and our regional partners to continue building on this momentum and advancing opportunities that benefit communities across West Central Wisconsin.”
Momentum West also recognizes departing board members Brian Elwood of Xcel Energy, Sheila Nyberg of the Clark County Economic Development Corporation, and Bun Hanson of the Barron County Board. Their dedication and contributions have played an important role in strengthening the organization and advancing regional priorities.
Momentum West is pleased to welcome three new members to the board: Julie Thoney of Xcel Energy, Melissa Meschke of the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation, and Tim Ploetz of the Barron County Board. Their expertise and perspectives will further strengthen the organization’s regional partnerships and strategic initiatives.
“Momentum West is fortunate to have such dedicated leaders representing organizations and communities across the region,” said Steve Jahn, Executive Director of Momentum West. “We are grateful for the service of our outgoing board members and excited to welcome new leadership as we continue advancing economic opportunity across West Central Wisconsin.”
MOMENTUM WEST is a regional economic development organization serving Barron, Clark, Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pierce, Pepin, Polk, Rusk, and St. Croix counties. By providing technical assistance and spearheading talent attraction and development initiatives, Momentum West is drawing attention to West Central Wisconsin and driving regional growth. Learn more at https://www.momentumwest.org.
For more information, contact:
Steve Jahn
Executive Director
steve@momentumwest.org
(715) 874-4673
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