As economic development director for the City of Pekin, Leigh Ann Matthews uses economic tools and resources to work with local businesses and recruit new businesses, services and projects in order to promote a higher quality of life for the city’s residents.
In her former role as executive director of the Pekin Main Street program, Matthews proved her leadership abilities and passion for improving the quality of downtown Pekin. She remains involved in the initiative as a board member, volunteer and TIF program administrator, and has increased volunteer hours and expanded events for businesses and families in Pekin by utilizing every available resource.
Always quick to tackle any project, Matthews has served the Kiwanis Club of Pekin for several years as secretary, vice president and Ways and Means chairman, and was recently named president of the organization.
She has attended a number of Kiwanis district and international conventions, and has worked diligently to begin a new evening Kiwanis Club to expand membership and service to the youth in Pekin. Her years of service and commitment to the organization’s mission earned Matthews a Distinguished Secretary Award from Kiwanis International.
In addition to her service and volunteer work with the Kiwanis Club, Matthews has served as a board member of the YWCA of Pekin and co-chair of its “Paint the Town Red” fundraising campaign. Her work and dedication helped Junior Achievement of Central Illinois earn awards for being one of the top-performing offices in the nation. She is also a team captain for Relay for Life and a volunteer for the Pekin Marigold Festival and Knights of Columbus.
Recognized for her community leadership, Matthews was one of the Pekin Daily Times’ 20 Under 40, and she is a graduate of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce Leadership School. iBi
