VCEDC Announces New Board Chair

Friday , Dec 12, 2025

Vilas County Economic Development Corporation
Announces New Board Chair

Nicolet College President Kate Ferrel Elected to Lead VCEDC Board

The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation (VCEDC) is pleased to announce the election of Kate Ferrel, President of Nicolet College, as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. The announcement was made at the VCEDC Annual Meeting on Friday, December 12, 2025. Ferrel succeeds Jim Tuckwell, who is retiring from the board after eight years of dedicated leadership and service. Ferrel will begin as VCEDC Board Chair on January 1, 2026. 

Kate Ferrel, a leader in higher education and community engagement, brings a wealth of experience and a visionary outlook to the VCEDC. As President of Nicolet College, she has spearheaded initiatives that foster workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community partnerships throughout Vilas County and the Northwoods region.

“I am honored to step into this role and continue the important work of strengthening economic opportunities in Vilas County,” said Ferrel. “We are grateful for Jim’s steadfast leadership and commitment during the past eight years. He leaves a tremendous legacy of progress and collaboration that sets a high standard for the future.”

During his tenure as Board Chair, Tuckwell made significant contributions to the organization’s mission, developing the VCEDC’s strategic initiatives, advancing high-speed broadband expansion, and fostering partnerships with local governments to guide community development projects. The VCEDC extends its sincere appreciation to Tuckwell for his passion and leadership in shaping a strong, resilient and diverse local economy.

As Board Chair, Ferrel will work closely with the VCEDC Executive Director and Board of Directors, business leaders, local government, and community organizations to drive strategic initiatives and support economic growth across Vilas County. Her appointment signals the VCEDC’s ongoing commitment to the synergies between education and entrepreneurship, innovation, and a thriving business environment for all residents and visitors.

Ferrel joined Nicolet College in 2014 to become the Dean of Students. Ferrel’s economic development experience includes her service as a director on Centergy – Central Wisconsin Economic Development Board, participation in economic development and educational study tours to Germany, China, Ireland, and Finland, and fifteen years of service at Mid-State Technical College in a variety of roles including Workforce and Economic Development. Prior to entering higher education, she worked for 10 years in private industry and for non-profits in marketing and public relations positions. 

Ferrel has a Master of Science degree in Leadership from Nova Southeastern University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Public Relations from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She also completed advanced coursework at UW-Madison in Educational Administration and studied abroad at Harlaxton College in Grantham, England, while a student at UW-Eau Claire.

The Vilas County Economic Development Corporation, a 501c3 non-profit, has a mission to build a strong, resilient and diverse Northwood economy. For more information or to donate visit www.vilascountyedc.org  

---