Debbie Kelly, President & CEO
Debbie Kelly is the President & CEO at the City of Albion’s Economic Development Corporation. Debbie previously served as the Vice President at Accelerate Jackson County, Inc. (AJC) and formerly, The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc. (EG).
Debbie has 27 years of experience in economic development. Her background includes serving in the United States Air Force, as well as providing administration and marketing positions in the not-for-profit sector in Jackson County, Michigan.
Debbie holds a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree and is pursuing her Economic Development Certification with the International Economic Development Council. She also serves as Secretary on the Summit Township Zoning Board of Appeals. Debbie is married to Bob, and they have a son – Karsen, who is a junior at the College of Music at Michigan State University.
Margaret Avery, MPA, Grant Writer & Project Analyst
Margaret Avery, MPA, was raised in the Albion/Homer area and returned to the area to serve as AEDC’s Grant Writer & Project Analyst in June 2024.
Prior to joining the organization, Margaret worked in a variety of fields including managing both statewide political campaigns and nonprofit advocacy programs. With experience as an advocate for the community in multiple facets, Margaret’s passion lies within working to eliminate systemic injustices by improving the social, political, and economic landscape one day at a time.
Margaret attended Kellogg Community College and Grand Valley State University and has earned a bachelor’s degree in political science, women, gender, and sexuality and a Master of Public Administration in public policy analysis, advocacy, and evaluation.
Amber Kidder, Grants & Program Administrator
Amber Kidder joined the AEDC in October 2024 as the Grants & Program Administrator.
She was raised in Litchfield and graduated from Trine University with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and forensic psychology.
Kidder is also a qualified intellectual disability professional (QIDP) and children's mental health professional (CMHP) who previously served as a juvenile probation officer, community outreach specialist and coordinator, and children's case manager for the Branch County Mental Health Authority.
She has experience working with individuals and communities to advocate for and address unmet needs through applied behavior analysis, community relations, and event coordination.
In her free time, Kidder serves as a volunteer firefighter and enjoys spending time with her dogs, and being outside year-round, especially hiking and snowmobiling.
Reagan Konkle, Marketing & Operations Coordinator
Reagan Konkle is a lifelong Albion resident and a graduate of Michigan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a Minor in Quantitative Data Analytics.
His professional background includes administrative support roles at Oaklawn Hospital and Flagstar Bank, giving him a strong understanding of data, operations, and the people behind them.
A self-taught web developer, Reagan leads the maintenance and ongoing development of the organization’s website and social media platforms, helping strengthen Albion’s online presence.
Joining the AEDC in March 2025, Reagan is proud to contribute to the growth and revitalization of the community that shaped him. Outside of work, he enjoys following the Detroit Pistons, cooking for friends, and discovering new music.
Sarah Kohler, Administrative Assistant Intern
Sarah Kohler joined the AEDC in August of 2025 as an Administrative Assistant Intern.
She was raised in South Lyon and currently attends Albion College, studying Economics and Public Policy, with a concentration in Business Management and Public Service. She is also a Certified Ethical Hacker and has a research background in Urban Development.
Prior to working at the AEDC, she founded and served as the Director of the Albion Athlete Advocacy Board, providing resources and support for collegiate athletes at Albion College.
In her free time she substitute teaches K-12, coaches gymnastics, and loves to knit.
Brenna Staley, AmeriCorps Intern
Brenna Staley is an AmeriCorps member, serving a 300-hour term of service with her site placement being AEDC. Brenna has previously served a term of service with AmeriCorps and was placed in the Planning Department at the City of Albion.
Brenna is a senior at Albion College where she studies economics & management and environmental studies. Brenna’s involvements on campus include the women’s tennis team, the Ford Institute for Public Service, Alpha Chi Omega, and Panhellenic Council. After graduating in May 2026, Brenna hopes to pursue a career in economic development or urban planning.
Brenna is from North Muskegon, Michigan. In her free time, Brenna enjoys traveling, going to the beach, and playing pickle ball with her friends.