A long-time member of the Lehigh Valley Economic Development Corporation team whose work touched nearly all aspects of LVEDC’s mission is retiring. 

Program Manager Stephanie Wean is stepping down on Feb. 7 after more than a decade of service. She started in 2014, following nearly two decades in community banking.

As Program Manager, Wean’s wide-ranging role included providing administrative and program support to the Industrial Development Authorities in both Lehigh and Northampton counties, the Lehigh Valley Economic Investment Corp. (LVEIC), the Lehigh Valley Partnership, LVEDC’s Board of Directors, and the Industrial Training and Education Consortium of the Lehigh Valley, an apprenticeship program for advanced manufacturing.

She was responsible for the administration of the Keystone Opportunity Zone and served as administrator for the United States Foreign Trade Zone #272, which allows companies in the Lehigh Valley to become more competitive in the global marketplace by taking advantage of tax abatements and other incentives. Wean assisted with business outreach and economic development finance projects and investor relations. She worked with the marketing team in planning LVEDC events, raising historic sponsorships for events

“People may not be familiar with Steph, but she is one of the unsung superstars that make LVEDC a great economic development organization,” said Don Cunningham, President and CEO of LVEDC. “I am thrilled for Steph, but her retirement is a loss for LVEDC. She’s one of the finest people and best professionals I’ve ever worked with. We all will miss her.”

“It’s hard to say goodbye to someone who has been such an essential part of our team the past 10 years. Her reliability, eagerness, willingness to contribute, in ways big and small, and the special way she would lighten the mood when needed, made all the difference,” said Jaime Whalen, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff at LVEDC. “I have benefited greatly by having her by my side, and I will miss her more than words can say. We are thrilled for her as she embarks on this new chapter, spending more time with family, the beach, golfing, bowling, baking, and all the things that bring her the joy she deserves!”

Wean’s previous roles at LVEDC were Finance Administrator and Program Administrator.

“LVEDC plays an important role in building the partnerships and strategies that have made the Lehigh Valley such an exciting place,” Wean said. “I was blessed to be part of such a dedicated, talented, and fun team that has really made an impact.”