New director named for FEDC

FOSTORIA — Gregory R. Allen, the recently retired executive vice president of Fostoria's branch of WesBanco — previously Premier Bank and First Federal Bank -- has been appointed executive director of the Fostoria Economic Development Corporation and the Fostoria Learning Center, the agencies' board of directors has announced.Allen takes a 37-year career in banking, with a focus on investment, business growth and community partnerships — into his new position.Allen replaces FEDC President and Fostoria Learning Center Director Renee Smith, who said she is "transitioning out of my current role at the end of the year."A news release from the FEDC/Fostoria Learning Center said that in addition to his banking career, Allen has worked on the board of directors and in key leadership positions with FEDC, Defiance County Economic Development, the Findlay-Hancock County Alliance, Allen County Visionaries and Greater Fort Wayne, Inc."We are excited to welcome Greg into this leadership role," said Tom Reineke, chairman of the FEDC/learning center board. "His proven expertise in finance, community development and organizational leadership will be instrumental in advancing the missions of both FEDC and the Fostoria Learning Cener."Allen received a bachelor of science degree in business administration from Bowling Green State University and is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Graduate School of Banking. He was also a member of the Ohio Army National Guard during the Persian Gulf War."I am honored to step into the role of executive director for the Fostoria Economic Development Corporation and the Fostoria Learning Center," Allen was quoted as saying in the news release. "My wife, Susan, and I lived in Fostoria in the mid-1990s, where we built lasting friendships and developed a deep appreciation for this community. I look forward to using my experience and my abilities to give back to Fostoria and to work collaboratively toward an even brighter future."I would also like to recognize Renee Smith for her outstanding leadership as president. She leaves behind strong, financially sound organizations, and I wish her continued success in her future endeavors."