12/23/2024
Program aims to enrich the area
Make My Move: Attracting talent, building community, revitalizing Jacksonville
By Lance Perkins
The Source Newspaper
The Jacksonville Regional Economic Development Corporation’s (JREDC) Make My Move program is transforming Jacksonville into a beacon for talent and innovation.
This initiative, a key component of the JREDC’s Talent Attraction Campaign, aims to draw skilled professionals from across the United States to strengthen the regional workforce and enrich the community.
By leveraging Jacksonville’s strategic location within several hundred miles of major urban centers like Chicago, Indianapolis, Kansas City and St. Louis, the program highlights the city’s accessibility and appeal for both living and working.
Participants selected for the Make My Move program possess diverse technical and non-technical expertise, making them valuable assets to area employers. They also bring a shared enthusiasm for community involvement, an essential component of the program’s vision. By engaging in civic life, volunteering, and supporting local initiatives, these individuals will contribute professionally and emerge as leaders within the community.
A thoughtfully designed relocation package supports these new residents. Offering both cash and non-cash components, the package fosters their seamless integration into Jacksonville’s social and professional networks. From the moment they arrive, participants are encouraged to connect with the city’s dynamic culture and vibrant neighborhoods, ensuring they become deeply rooted in their new home.
Kai Schnitker, JREDC Chairman, and president and CEO of First National Bank of Arenzville, praised the program as part of Jacksonville’s revitalization efforts, “The Make My Move program supports a bold, forward-thinking approach to building the region’s future. By attracting talented professionals from around the country, we’re not only strengthening our economy but also cultivating a thriving community for generations to come.”
This initiative aligns perfectly with the city’s redevelopment efforts. These new residents will not only contribute to Jacksonville’s economic success but also bring fresh perspectives and resources to the city’s revitalization projects. From supporting local businesses to participating in urban renewal efforts, their involvement will drive progress and innovation.
Numerous community leaders have contributed to ensuring the program was fully prepared for implementation. By embracing talent-based growth as a cornerstone of Jacksonville’s redevelopment, the Make My Move program is an excellent example of how collaboration and community commitment can foster sustainable success.
Jacksonville’s location, affordability and rich Midwestern culture make it an ideal choice for professionals and families looking to thrive. Its proximity to major cities allows residents to enjoy a small-town lifestyle without sacrificing access to urban amenities, career opportunities, and cultural experiences.
This year, five exceptional recipients were chosen for the Make My Move program. In the next sections, we’ll introduce these individuals, explore their professional backgrounds, and learn about their plans for contributing to Jacksonville’s bright future. Their stories underscore the transformative impact of this initiative and highlight how Jacksonville is becoming a hub for innovation, collaboration, and community spirit.
CADE LIEHR
Cade Liehr is a talented mechanical engineer who earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, specializing in Manufacturing Processes through his completion of coursework in Control Systems, Thermodynamics, and Design for Manufacturing. His diverse industry experience spans manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and heavy equipment, with a focus on improving processes, ensuring safety, and enhancing efficiency.
Liehr recently began working for Reynolds Consumer Products as a Process Engineer, where he focuses on enhancing production line efficiency and safety while collaborating with operators to implement innovative solutions. His earlier professional experiences include internships at Cummins Inc. and Caterpillar Inc., where he honed his skills in process development, system optimization, and safety protocol implementation. These roles equipped him with the versatility and technical expertise needed to excel in dynamic industrial environments.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Liehr has held leadership roles as treasurer of Triangle Fraternity and captain of his high school baseball team. He also enjoys mentoring young athletes as a youth soccer coach.
Now settled in Jacksonville, Liehr values its close-knit community and rural charm while appreciating its proximity to urban amenities. He looks forward to making a positive impact locally, both professionally and as an active community member.
ELENA CHRYSOSTOMOU, PH.D.
Dr. Elena Chrysostomou is a distinguished molecular and cellular biologist and neuroscientist with a decade of expertise in inner ear development and hearing research. She earned her Ph.D. in Developmental Neuroscience from University College London, where her groundbreaking research on Notch signaling dynamics illuminated the pathway during inner ear development.
Her career includes prestigious postdoctoral fellowships at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland, focusing on the roles of Notch signaling in supporting cell development and maintenance. Chrysostomou further advanced hearing research as a research scientist at the Salk Institute and a Staff Research Associate at UC San Diego, exploring drug treatments for age-related and noise-induced hearing loss.
Chrysostomou’s contributions to auditory science are widely recognized. She has authored numerous publications in high-impact journals and delivered presentations at international conferences. Known for her leadership and mentorship, she excels in collaborative projects and fostering the next generation of scientists.
Now joining Turner Scientific as a Study Director and Senior Scientist, Chrysostomou brings her expertise to preclinical auditory research and drug development. Drawn to Jacksonville for its small-town charm and vibrant community, she looks forward to continuing her impactful scientific work while embracing the welcoming atmosphere of her new home.
EMMA REUSCHEL, PH.D.
Dr. Emma Reuschel is a distinguished immunologist specializing in vaccine development and immunotherapy, with a career devoted to advancing public health. She holds a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry from Illinois College. Her expertise in immunological assays and data analysis has significantly contributed to the development of vaccines for infectious diseases, as well as cancer immunotherapies.
Currently a Senior Scientist in Immunology and Biomarkers at Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Reuschel analyzes clinical trial data, manages projects with external collaborators, and supports regulatory submissions. Her dedication to excellence has earned her recognition through numerous high-impact publications and invitations to present at prestigious scientific conferences. Additionally, she is a committed mentor, fostering the growth of aspiring scientists and researchers.
Originally from West Central Illinois, Reuschel is excited to return to her roots after 17 years in Philadelphia. She looks forward to reconnecting with her family, which includes her parents, siblings, and nieces and nephews.
Reuschel cherishes the opportunity to attend the celebrations, soccer games, and other events she has missed while living away. Having fond memories of her time at Illinois College, she is eager to contribute to the vibrant and growing Jacksonville community, inspired by recent developments like The Vault’s axe throwing and escape room. Reuschel is thrilled to witness and support the region’s continued growth and innovation while bringing her scientific expertise back home.
LANCE PERKINS, MBA
Lance Perkins is an accomplished marketing strategist with over two decades of experience driving organizational growth, market expansion, and brand innovation across diverse industries. As a dynamic leader with a proven ability to craft and implement marketing initiatives, Perkins has consistently delivered measurable results in roles ranging from global corporate leadership to entrepreneurial consulting.
Perkins’ career highlights include leading strategic marketing teams at renowned healthcare organizations such as Johnson & Johnson, CR Bard and Zimmer Biomet. He has overseen groundbreaking initiatives, including rebranding corporate identities, launching innovative medical devices, and streamlining processes to drive efficiency and profitability. His expertise extends to business intelligence, strategy, communications and talent development, which he has applied across roles with increasing responsibility.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Perkins is deeply passionate about historic preservation. Drawn to Jacksonville’s rich history and tranquil lifestyle, he is eager to restore a historic home, integrating his love for both architecture and design.
Perkins holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Florida and a BBA in Marketing from St. Bonaventure University. A former expatriate in the Netherlands, he brings a global perspective to his work and is conversant in Spanish and Dutch. His enthusiasm for Jacksonville reflects his commitment to creating a balanced lifestyle while embracing the area’s unique character.
NATHAN REED
Nathan Reed is an accomplished engineer with over a decade of experience in research and development, high-volume manufacturing, and process optimization. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical and Biological Engineering from Colorado State University and an earlier degree in Automotive and Diesel Technology from Universal Technical Institute. Renowned for his innovative problem-solving skills and ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, Reed has consistently delivered significant efficiency improvements throughout his career.
Reed recently relocated from Utah to Jacksonville, where he serves as a Senior R&D Engineer at Reynolds Consumer Products. In this role, he focuses on developing and implementing new technologies to optimize the manufacturing processes at the Food Storage Bag plant, contributing to the company’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
Accompanied by his wife, Katie, and their 2.5-year-old son, Wilder, Nathan Reed chose Jacksonville for its slower pace of life, family-friendly atmosphere, and historical charm. The move reflects his desire to raise his family in a close-knit community while continuing to pursue his professional passions. Reed is excited to contribute his expertise to the region’s industrial growth and looks forward to building strong connections within the Jacksonville community.