Elissa Hansen
Elissa Hansen, a sitting member of the Duluth City Council who has worked for more than a decade in business, community, economic, and organizational development across central and northeast Minnesota, has been appointed president and CEO of the Northspan Group in Duluth.
She replaces Randy Lasky, who is retiring.
According to a press release from Northspan, Hansen spends her time advancing businesses’ and communities’ capabilities, and has previous experience with the Brainerd Lakes Area Development Corporation, Area Partnership for Economic Expansion (APEX), and most recently, Steam Creative Consulting.
She is currently chair of the Northern Lights Express Passenger Rail Alliance, and a commissioner on the Duluth Economic Development Authority. She participates in the Aim High Network, which connects inspiring women entrepreneurs and community leaders in the region to build influence, leadership, wealth and opportunity.
Hansen grew up in central Minnesota. She received her undergraduate and master’s degrees from Northern Arizona University. After living and working across the country, she chose to make Duluth her home.
She is a certified Economic Development Finance Professional with the National Development Council and a graduate of both the Leadership Duluth and Blandin Community Leadership programs. Hansen has also been honored as one of the Duluth News Tribune’s
20 under 40,” which celebrates professionals who are making a positive impact and working for change in the region.
Mike Larson of Cascade Vacation Rentals in Lutsen currently serves as vice chair of the Northspan board of directors. A meet and greet was held for Hansen on July 13 in the Nelson Suite at Lutsen Resort.
Hansen’s appointment is important to Cook County, said Cook County Chamber Director Jim Boyd, because Northspan has been and will continue to be a good friend to Cook County and a key player in county economic development.
“It was Northspan, for example, that led the far-reaching Go Team planning effort in 2012-13. The Go Team, under Randy Lasky’s guidance, created a powerful development agenda that still guides much of what is happening in Cook County,” Boyd said.
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