Tri-State Development (TSD), a leading regional economic and community development organization housed at Culver-Stockton College, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its membership to include six new counties in Southeast Iowa. The counties of Appanoose, Keokuk, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, and Wayne are now proud members of the Tri-State Development region. Iowa South’s president Deann DeGroot stated, “Iowa South is excited to join Tri-State Development, paving the way for a brighter future and stronger regional growth through collaboration.”
This significant addition brings a combined population of 67,248 residents and spans over 3,000 square miles. These counties will greatly contribute to the collective voice of the region, strengthening our mission to foster economic growth and enhance the quality of life for all community members.
“We are excited to welcome Appanoose, Keokuk, Lucas, Mahaska, Monroe, and Wayne counties to the Tri-State Development family,” said Leslie Sieck, executive director of Tri-State Development. “Their inclusion marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to promote regional partnerships among our rural counties and implement strategies that drive investment and improve living standards across our region.”
With this expansion, Tri-State Development now serves a total of 42 counties in 3 states, covering 22,415 square miles and supporting a combined population of 740,000. “Our organization remains committed to developing initiatives that encourage sustainable growth, attract new businesses, and provide residents with enhanced
opportunities for economic prosperity”, added Sieck.
Tri-State Development’s mission is rooted in the belief that regional collaboration is key to unlocking the full potential of our communities. By pooling resources, sharing expertise, working together towards common goals, and speaking with one voice to state and federal officials, rural regions can create a more vibrant and resilient regional economy. “Iowa South is a cooperative collection of community stakeholders focused on expanding the regional economy. Joining Tri-State Development embraces our mission. Regional partners in economic development are essential because they bring diverse resources, perspectives, and expertise, fostering innovation and sustainable growth that benefits the entire region,” said DeGroot.
As it continues to grow, Tri-State Development remains dedicated to advocating for the needs and interests of all its member communities. TSD looks forward to the positive impact this expansion will have on the region and the new possibilities it will create in the collective future.
For more information about Tri-State Development and its initiatives, please visit culver.edu/tsd or contact Leslie Sieck at lsieck@culver.edu
For more information about Iowa South, please contact Deann DeGroot at ddegroot@mahaskachamber.org.
About Tri-State Development:
Tri-State Development, a program of Culver-Stockton College, is a regional economic and community development organization focused on research and
fostering partnerships, strategies, and initiatives that promote investment and enhance the quality of life across the region. With a commitment to sustainable growth and regional collaboration, Tri-State Development serves 42 counties spanning 22,415 square miles with a combined population of over 740,000 residents.
Culver-Stockton College has over 170 years of experience in educating students in the liberal arts academic tradition. Located in Canton, Missouri, the campus overlooks the Mississippi River and is located at the center of the Tri-State Development 42-county region.
Contact the Marketing & Public Relations Office, at pr@culver.edu or 573-288-6000 ext. 6728 for more information.
NOTE: A number that appears immediately after a person’s name (i.e. Jane Doe ’18) is a reference to the year that person earned their bachelor’s degree from Culver-Stockton.