Huron County’s Emerging Star: Schnettler Honored with Dual MEDA Awards
In a historic first, Samantha Schnettler, Executive Director of the Huron County Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC), was honored with two statewide awards at the Michigan Economic Developers Association’s (MEDA) Annual Meeting in Holland, Michigan. MEDA has never before presented two awards to the same individual in a single year, underscoring the exceptional impact of Schnettler’s leadership and achievements.
Schnettler received the Birgit M. Klohs Fellowship, a competitive scholarship designed to support economic developers in furthering their education and professional growth. Out of nine statewide applicants, Schnettler was selected for her strong vision for development and professional excellence, supported by glowing recommendations from peers and leaders.
She was also named Michigan’s Emerging Star in Economic Development, an award reserved for professionals with less than ten years of experience who have already demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing their communities.
Leadership and Community Impact
Schnettler has quickly established herself as a dynamic force in economic development across Huron and Sanilac Counties, while providing additional support for regional efforts in Tuscola County. She has led HCEDC through its first staff transition in nearly 40 years, created and implemented the organization’s first documented operational procedures, and forged new partnerships that strengthen the region’s economic foundation.
Her work has touched nearly every aspect of community and economic growth from managing state and federal grants, to developing digital resources such as the Sanilac County Economic Development web presence, to spearheading blight removal and redevelopment efforts. Her leadership has brought resources and attention from state and federal agencies, including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Colleagues and board members offered heartfelt reflections on her contributions:
- “Working with Samantha has been amazing – she has pumped so much fresh air and energy into our organization! There is no such thing as status quo with Samantha,” said Kevin Soper, HCEDC Board Member. “Her effort has forged our group into something wholly different than we were two years ago. I can’t wait to see where we are next year.”
- “From the first day she was hired, she has shown professionalism, been a great communicator, is very focused, and knows what she wants to accomplish in her role,” said Mike Eisengruber, HCEDC Board Member. “It is a pleasure to be associated with someone with her expertise and drive, and I look forward to seeing great things happen for Huron County as we move forward.”
- Sanilac County Administrator Nathan Roskey emphasized her regional impact: “Samantha brings great communication skills and responsiveness to our residents, local leaders, and the business community. She has created an invaluable resource in Sanilac County EDC communications, which helps enhance marketing efforts. Her leadership has been vital in securing funding and managing state programs that improve our local communities.”
- Mackenzie Price, Executive Director of the Huron County Community Foundation, praised both Schnettler’s professional and volunteer work: “Samantha has already made a significant impact on our region, fully embracing the challenges and opportunities of leading economic development across a two-county service area. Her ability to foster partnerships has already begun to benefit our region. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this Emerging Star Award.”
A Personal Reflection
Reflecting on her historic dual honors, Schnettler said:
“I am deeply honored to receive these recognitions from my peers in economic development. The Birgit M. Klohs Fellowship and the Emerging Star Award represent not only my professional journey, but also the incredible collaboration happening across Huron and Sanilac Counties. I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside so many dedicated leaders and community members who are committed to building a stronger future for our region. For MEDA to present me with two awards in one year is incredibly humbling, and I see it as a reflection of the strength of the communities I serve. Huron and Sanilac Counties deserve the best, and I intend to give them the best.”
About the Michigan Economic Developers Association
The Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA) is a statewide organization dedicated to advancing economic development professionals through education, networking, and advocacy.
About the Huron County Economic Development Corporation
The Huron County Economic Development Corporation provides leadership, resources, and collaborative opportunities to strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life in Huron and Sanilac Counties. Through strategic partnerships, the EDC supports businesses, attracts investment, and advances community development.
