Kathleen Abels Named New President of Putnam EDC
Real Estate In-Depth | July 12, 2019
CARMEL—The Putnam County Economic Development Corp. (EDC) announced on July 9 that Kathleen Dennehy Abels was named president of the agency. Abels began working at PEDC effective July 1.
Abels has decades of experience in public relations, customer service, marketing, construction and project management. She recently completed a career at New York State Electric & Gas, culminating as its Manager of Community Outreach and Development.
“Kathleen is the right leader for the Putnam County EDC,” said Richard Weiss, chairman of the board of the Putnam County Economic Development Corp.
“Her extensive experience, background and people-focused leadership style will build on the success of the Putnam County EDC. Her priorities will be to strengthen partnerships, develop strategic alliances and successfully execute the Putnam County EDC’s vision. As a former board member for more than five years, Kathleen has a solid understanding of available incentives and markets. She has strong core values and the unanimous support of our Board,” Weiss said.
“I am honored and excited to accept this position,” said Abels. “It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that delivers high quality service and innovative solutions for the residents of Putnam County. Putnam County is a great place to live, work and grow a business.”
A resident since childhood, Abels presently serves on the Board of Directors for the Town of Southeast Cultural Arts Coalition and Friends of Ladson Park. She actively supported the Old Town Hall Theatre project in Downtown Brewster and was the former Chair of the Town of Southeast Historic Sites Commission.
Abels received a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Mercy College and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Pace University.
The Putnam County Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)(6) Public-Private Corporation formed in 1996 to promote the economic vitality of Putnam County. It acts as a facilitator, bringing together businesses, government agencies and resources.