Wichlin named Director of Community Development & Business Finance

Christina Wichlin has been named the new Director of Community Development & Business Finance. This follows a strategic reorganization with the renaming of the District's Economic & Community Development (ECD) department to Community Development & Business Finance. Christina brings over eight years of experience in community development and holds degrees from Florida Gulf Coast University and The University of Alabama. Her vision and leadership will guide the department into its next chapter of growth and innovation. Wichlin said, “I am honored to lead our department into a new era of collaboration and strengthening our community relationships.”

Organizational Updates:

· Aubrey Light has been named Financial Coordinator. In this role, she will manage all grant billing and bring her extensive background in government, public health, procurement, and private industry to strengthen the department’s financial operations. Her experience in compliance management and financial oversight will enhance both efficiency and accountability.

· Lisa Jones has been promoted to Loan Corporation Coordinator. Lisa, who has been with FTDD since 2020, brings 30 years of accounting experience. She has assisted the grant-writing staff in securing millions in state and federal grants and supports the small business loan program. In her new role, Lisa will lead loan servicing operations and oversee the growth of FTDD’s affiliated loan entity. She holds a B.S. in Organizational Management and an MBA from Tusculum University.

The Community Development & Business Finance team also includes experienced professionals dedicated to supporting communities throughout the region:

· Lance Lowery, Community Development Manager – Lance has been with FTDD since 2013, assisting communities in securing and managing millions in state and federal grants. His expertise spans infrastructure, parks, and downtown revitalization projects, with a strong focus on regulatory compliance and successful implementation.

· Geneva King, Community Development Coordinator – Geneva joined FTDD from the private sector, where she worked in sales, marketing, and logistics at Kintronic Labs. She holds a B.A. in International Affairs from Gordon College and brings a diverse, globally informed skill set to her work supporting regional development initiatives.

FTDD remains steadfast in its mission to foster strong partnerships, advance infrastructure, and promote sustainable economic growth across Northeast Tennessee. These organizational changes reflect FTDD’s continued commitment to excellence in service and innovation for the communities it serves.

For more information about this and other District News, please contact Mark Stevans, mstevans@ftdd.org.