ITHACA, N.Y., June 30, 2026 – Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) appointed three new members to the Board of Directors at its quarterly meeting in June. John Huhtala (Tompkins Community Bank) and Justin Runke (Centralus Health) join as 3-year appointments, and Scott Doyle, AICP (Ithaca College) fills an annual appointment vacated by Tim Downs, who left the institution earlier this month. A full board list can be found at IthacaAreaED.org/about-iaed.
“It is a privilege to serve as Chair of this dynamic, 32-member board representing a wide array of our local economy. I welcome the newest board members and look forward to collaborating with them to support IAED’s mission of building a thriving, prosperous Tompkins County,” said Jodi Lee Denman, Board Chairperson.
Huhtala joined Tompkins in 2025 and serves as President of the Central New York Market. He is a seasoned industry professional with nearly three decades in commercial banking, sales, and relationship management. Runke is Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel for the Cayuga Health System, having served there as a corporate healthcare attorney for 5 years and Harris Beach PLLC for 20 years prior. Doyle joined Ithaca College as Director of Energy Management and Sustainability in 2022 after 15 years with the Tompkins County Department of Planning and Sustainability. All three are involved locally and across the region as volunteers.
“Committed, engaged leaders from our many communities and sectors are essential to IAED’s business. These three board members join an outstanding team of their peers, who along with partners and staff are making a true economic impact,” added Kurt Foreman, IAED’s President.
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About Ithaca Area Economic Development
Ithaca Area Economic Development is a private non-profit economic development organization serving Ithaca and Tompkins County. It is New York State’s premier Accredited Economic Development Organization, one of about 75 across North America. Since 1964, Ithaca Area Economic Development has worked to grow, retain, and attract companies that provide high-quality employment opportunities and strives to create a supportive environment for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Scott Doyle
John Huhtala
Justin Runke
