Jill Dabbs steps down as director of Downtown Springdale Alliance

BusinessNews BriefsNorthwest Arkansas

by Jeff Della Rosa ([email protected]) ago 0 views 

The Downtown Springdale Alliance (DSA) announced Thursday (Oct. 24) the departure of its executive director, Jill Dabbs, who has served the organization for six years.

The organization’s board of directors has appointed a transition committee of board members to fill the position. According to the job description, the position offers a salary of up to $110,000 based on experience and salary history.

“We’re searching for a dynamic leader with a passion for community development and a proven track record of collaboration and innovation,” said Dina Wood, president of the DSA board. “Jill and her team have laid an impressive foundation, and there are tremendous opportunities ahead.”

Under Dabbs’ leadership, she expanded community engagement, boosted local businesses, and created a welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors, according to a news release.

“Jill’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the revitalization of downtown Springdale,” said Springdale Mayor Doug Sprouse. “The momentum she created will continue to shape the future of our city.”

Before joining the DSA, Dabbs was mayor of Bryant in central Arkansas. She served two terms as mayor from 2011 to 2018 and lost her bid for a third term in November 2018 by 30 votes. Dabbs replaced Kelly Hale Syer, who was DSA executive director from May 2017 to late 2018.

“Jill has been hands-on in connecting Downtown Springdale Alliance’s efforts with the arts, cultural, educational, community and business leaders of downtown,” said Olivia Tyson. “We are enthusiastic about this next chapter and look forward to working with the future executive director.”

Link here for a job description for the executive director position.

The DSA was established in 2011 and evolved from Sprouse’s Downtown Development Task Force. The nonprofit works to revitalize and enhance the downtown area and partners with key stakeholders and community members to create a “vibrant, inclusive community hub,” the job description shows.