A Vermilion County icon has passed. Vicki Haugen who has lead economic development in Vermilion County for almost four decades died on Tuesday evening, February 11th.
In a career that spanned 38-years, Haugen led both the Economic Development Corporation from 1986 to 2002, and the Vermilion Advantage from 2002 to present day.
In that time as President and CEO; Haugen was responsible for the implementation and oversight of economic development activities, business services and workforce development for Vermilion County, Illinois.
When asked about her project work, Haugen said “every project whether it was a local retention, expansion OR new location – has been special because of the impact it has had on local lives and our county as a whole.”
Haugen was asked about her favorite memories of advocating for our community, she mentioned Blue Cross Blue Shield, which was the first new location win for the EDC back in 1985. The Krupp projects which have resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in local investment by international companies. Logistics giants, McLane and Auto Zone, along with the high tech facilities of Alcoa and FiberTec are projects that stood out for Haugen.
Most recently, Haugen was instrumental in the work done with the Carle expansion in Danville and the state line casino project planned for next year.
Haugen has received local, state, national and international recognition for her leadership in both economic and workforce development.
Haugen is survived by her husband Wayne and her ever loyal companion Patches. She was 62-years old.
