October 10, 2024
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WEV CEO Kathy Odell to retire at month’s end

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Kathy Odell, the CEO of Women’s Economic Ventures, speaks at an event in downtown Santa Barbara on Sept. 22, 2021. (File photo)

Women’s Economic Ventures CEO Kathy Odell, who has held the position for the past five years, will be retiring effective May 1.

Announced on April 2, Odell will be transitioning to the role of CEO Emerita while Nicki Parr, who has also been with WEV since 2019, most recently in the role of chief operating officer, will take over as interim CEO.

“WEV is a strong and enduring participant in our communities,” Odell said in a press release.

“And while I may be stepping away from day-to-day involvement, my dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs and driving economic prosperity remains steadfast.”

Under Odell’s leadership, WEV has “achieved significant milestones and made lasting contributions to the lives of thousands of women and small business entrepreneurs within our community,” according to the press release.

In the last five years, WEV has provided essential training and resources, technical support and funding to women entrepreneurs, advocated for gender equality in the business world and helped women get their start in the business space.

“The last five years have been some of the most rewarding of my career,” Odell said.

“But now, it is time for me to embrace the next chapter of my journey.”

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