The Area Development Foundation (ADF) has announced the promotion of Julia Suggs to Vice President, effective June 2, 2025. Suggs previously held the position of Economic Development Manager at ADF, where she spearheaded initiatives to enhance Knox County's workforce and business environment. With a background in manufacturing and an MBA in Logistics from Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Suggs has utilized her expertise to support key industries in the county.
Suggs chairs the countywide WorkDev group, facilitating collaboration between schools and employers, benefiting over 1,000 students with career programming. She has also advanced ADF’s business retention and expansion efforts using data tools and resources. Additionally, she leads the Knox County Business Advisory Council to align education with workforce needs and was recognized as the 2023 Economic Development Rookie of the Year by the Ohio Economic Development Association.
Sam Filkins, President of ADF, said, "Julia has been a huge asset to the Area Development Foundation, and this promotion reflects the real impact she’s already had as well as our confidence in her leadership going forward." He praised her energy, insight, and innovative solutions that address community needs.
In response to her new role, Suggs expressed her commitment to Knox County: "It’s a privilege to continue serving Knox County in this new capacity. I care deeply about this community and am committed to working with our partners to strengthen the local economy."
For further details on ADF's initiatives, visit knoxadf.com.
