To say that Wendy Jones was excited to be named executive director of the Sedona Main Street Program may be a bit of an understatement.
“I was absolutely over-the-top thrilled,” she said. “I had been looking for something new so when I saw there was an opening, I was ecstatic.”
Jones started just in time to help out with the National Day of the Cowboy, one of SMSP’s biggest events. She received some on-the-job training for the event from outgoing executive director Holly Epright, who retired after 17 years.
“She [Epright] has some big shoes to fill but I’m confident I’ll be able to do that,” Jones said.
As the new executive director, Jones said she looks forward to continue working with the all parties involved on topics that are already on the table. SMSP works on many issues, most of which people are unaware of, she said. For example, the program helped to identify the need for crosswalks in the Uptown area, and was instrumental in making that happen.
“I look forward to using modern technology such as smart phones to bring a new level of customer service to the district, and monetize the experience for the business owners,” she said. “A lot has changed over the years. I believe new technology can benefit both the visitor and the merchant.”
Jones moved to Sedona full time a year ago, and lives in the Uptown area. She said she has a strong background in fundraising, nonprofits and marketing, which is why she felt this position suited her. Most recently she sat on the Board of Access 13, the local public access television station in Prescott. She worked with Prescott City Council and private entities and raised more than $10,000 for new equipment for the station.
“In addition, I was the event coordinator for Big Brother Big Sisters of Yapavai County,” Jones said. “Prior to that, I worked with the city of Oakland redeveloping the Joaquin Miller Park. I raised over $4 million for the project and then went on to raise the funding for a playground. As a result of my efforts, I was nominated for and won the Local Hero Award.”
The National Day of the Cowboy is one of SMSP’s five major annual events — the others being the St. Patrick’s Parade and Festival, The Paint Out, trick or treating on Halloween and the tree lighting with Santa.
“I would love to add some events to that list,” she said. “I also look forward to serving my district, by engaging the stakeholders involved and sharing ideas. I’ve already met with several of them and always welcome fresh ideas that we can add to list of things we’re already doing.”
