New executive director settles in at Naturally Lewis

LOWVILLE, N.Y. — The new executive director of Naturally Lewis, Inc. has been on the job for more than a month, leading the Lewis County–based nonprofit economic-development organization. Joanne Witt officially started work on Monday, Aug. 4, succeeding Brittany Davis in the role. Before joining Naturally Lewis, Witt most recently served as director of the STARBASE Fort Drum Academy for the past three years, according to her LinkedIn profile. “I am thrilled to be joining the Naturally Lewis Team as the Executive Director and serving our community in this new role,” Witt said in the Naturally Lewis announcement. This transition follows the planned departure of Davis. She is now working as a consultant and facilitator for Focus Consulting in Carthage, according to her LinkedIn profile. Naturally Lewis says it is grateful for her years of dedication, leadership, and vision for “impactful and intentional” economic development. Davis worked for the organization for more than nine years, The Naturally Lewis board of directors led an “extensive and competitive” hiring process to identify the organization’s next executive director. The position’s responsibilities include organizational leadership and strategic planning, staff leadership and development, economic and business development, community engagement and partnerships, and financial and operations management. “Naturally Lewis, Inc. is proud to announce Joanne Witt as the Executive Director of our organization,” Mike Jackson, board chairman, said. “With a strong background in education and youth development, Joanne brings a fresh perspective to the work of community and economic development. Her passion for empowering people and building connections will be an incredible asset as we continue to grow and serve Lewis County.” Witt also previously worked in positions at Jefferson-Lewis BOCES, St. Lawrence Lewis BOCES, and Watertown City School District, per her LinkedIn. Naturally Lewis, based in Lowville, says it focuses on business development and support services, tourism development, property, and site development, and sustaining economic development in its communities.