Pettyjohn wins Saskatchewan's Economic Development Professional of the Year

Royce Pettyjohn, Main Street Program Coordinator for the Town of Maple Creek, and Chair of the Board of Directors for the Cypress Hills Destination Area was named Economic Development Professional of the Year, at the recently held Saskatchewan Economic Development Association (SEDA) Awards of Excellence in Saskatoon.

Nominated for the award by Carey Baker, Director of Economic Development for the Town of Unity, Baker says a recent trip to Maple Creek as part of the First Impressions Program really illustrated for him the work that Pettyjohn has been doing over the last few years.

"I've always heard of the many good things being done in the Maple Creek and the Cypress Hills area," says Baker. "I've known Royce for several years as a peer and proponent in tourism and economic development, and have respected him and appreciated his contributions to grow and improve our communities and province. But It wasn't until my recent visit and comprehensive touring of Maple Creek that I could truly appreciate the scale of work and success that has occurred over the past number of years."

"While these successes cannot be attributed to one individual," continues Baker. "I had many discussions with individuals and businesses in Maple Creek, and the influence of Royce upon the Region was very clear. Individuals like Royce do what they do because of their passion and beliefs, many, many times without recognition. In this instance, I am very pleased to have been able to assist to get him the recognition he deserves, a very important recognition and respect that can only come from his peers from across the Province that understand the contributions and sacrifices he has likely made. A very worthy recipient of the Saskatchewan Economic Development Association Economic Development Professional Award."

Having long been a huge proponent of individuals and organizations working collaboratively together to create economic development opportunities, while accepting the award at SEDA's 2014 Creating Intersections for Growth Conference, Pettyjohn took the time to acknowledge those that have worked with him to develop the region over the past years.

"I am truly honoured," said Pettyjohn. "This award is the result of the great people with whom I have the pleasure to work. Everyone from the Main Street Program Committee, to the Town of Maple Creek, the Cypress Hills Destination Area, the Communities in Bloom Steering Committee and the S.W. Sask Oldtimer's Museum Board of Directors. It is passionate and dedicated volunteers who truly make community development possible."