FTDD Announces Key Leadership Appointments

Jayne Morrell, Director of Finance

Misty Willison, Special Projects and Communications Manager

Lisa Evans, WIOA Program Director

Anna Price, Executive Assistant and Human Resources Director

The First Tennessee Development District is pleased to announce several important leadership appointments that strengthen the organization’s capacity to serve communities across Northeast Tennessee.

Jayne Morrell – Director of Finance

FTDD is proud to announce the appointment of Jayne Morrell as Finance Director. Jayne joined FTDD in 2021 as Fiscal Manager for the Area Agency on Aging and Disability, where she has provided invaluable expertise and leadership. She has extensive experience in finance and a strong record of service to the organization.

In her new capacity as Finance Director, she will oversee all financial operations of the District. Her responsibilities include preparing, or directing the preparation of, financial reports and related records, including disbursements, revenue control, accounting records, and reports to grantors, the Executive Director, and the Board of Directors. She will also lead year-end closings and the preparation of accompanying financial statements.

Misty Willison – Special Projects and Communications Manager

FTDD is also pleased to announce that Misty Willison has been promoted to Special Projects and Communications Manager. Misty has been a valued member of the FTDD team since 2018. In her new role, she will oversee the District’s online and print communications and manage the functions of the FTDD Foundation, the nonprofit 501(c)(3) arm of the Development District established to pursue private fundraising and grant opportunities that expand services for Northeast Tennesseans in need.

She will also continue to serve as the District’s Historic Preservation Planner and report infrastructure needs annually to the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations.

Lisa Evans – WIOA Program Director

FTDD is proud to announce the promotion of Lisa Evans to WIOA Program Director. Lisa has worked in workforce development for more than 20 years, bringing extensive knowledge and experience to her new role. FTDD assumed both fiscal and board staff responsibilities for the region’s Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) programs and the Northeast Tennessee Local Workforce Development Board in 2022. Lisa’s experience was a valuable resource during this transition.

As Program Director, Lisa will continue to lead efforts to strengthen the region’s workforce development system. FTDD remains committed to building and sustaining a system that promotes economic development, meets employer needs, and adapts to the changing demands of the labor market.

Anna Price – Executive Assistant & Human Resources Director

FTDD further recognizes Anna Price in her dual role as Executive Assistant and Human Resources Director. As Executive Assistant, Anna provides high-level administrative support to the Executive Director, including preparing and disseminating reports to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee, facilitating communications with district members, coordinating meetings and conferences, and monitoring organizational issues while recommending policy or procedural improvements.

In her capacity as Human Resources Director, she is responsible for overseeing all HR functions for the District. She also ensures compliance with labor laws, oversees continuing education on HR practices and policies, and serves as the District’s OSHA Compliance Officer.

These organizational changes reflect the District’s ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation, and service to the communities it is proud to serve.

For more information about this and other District News, please contact Misty Willison, mwillison@ftdd.org