New Faces at the MDA

The Missoula Downtown Association has hired two new employees, and both are Montana natives and recent graduates of The University of Montana.

Jenny Mueller began her position as program director on July 9, and she will primarily be responsible for membership recruitment and retention, event planning and production, and communications outreach. A graduate of Billings Central High School, Mueller earned a B.S. in Hospitality Management from Northern Arizona University and received an M.A. in Linguistics from UM in 2011. Her work experience in national retail, food and beverage, the Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau, Montana State University facilities management and Adventure Life will serve her well at the MDA.

Julie Walsh began her post as the MDA’s administrative
assistant on May 21. She is the MDA’s frontline manager, receiving all incoming visits, phone calls and emails. She is primarily responsible for leasing Caras Park, managing the Downtown Boulevard Banner program and the Downtown Gift Card program among other things. Walsh just earned a B.A. in Psychology from UM and is a graduate of Billings West High School. Walsh previously interned at Zootown Arts Community Center, the Gallagher Foundation, YWCA Missoula and spent the last two summers at the Glacier Institute in Glacier National Park.

“We are delighted to have new energy, experienced individuals, and youthful perspectives to help drive this organization to new levels,” said Linda McCarthy, MDA Executive Director. “Both Julie and Jenny bring a variety of experience and energy that will help the MDA improve its programming, continue to grow in membership and membership services, and accomplish the goals set forth by the board of directors.”

Mueller and Walsh join McCarthy, Marketing & Events Director Colin Hickey and Bookkeeper Robert Giblin as the MDA’s staff of five dedicated to “promoting, supporting and enhancing the vitality of Downtown Missoula for the betterment of the community.”

The MDA produces 35 community events and 30 membership events each year, supports over 400 Downtown businesses through marketing, gift card sales, bus passes for member employees, advocacy, communications, and implementation of the Downtown Master Plan among other things.

The Missoula Downtown Association was established in 1975 and is run by a 23-member Board of Directors, elected by the membership. For more information on the MDA and its programs, visit www.missouladowntown.com or stop by the office at 218 East Main Street. Business hours are Monday through Friday 8am-5pm.

Jenny Mueller – Program Director

Julie Walsh – Administrative Assistant