OLDS — Tracy Gardner, general manager of the Olds Regional Exhibition (ORE) for the past four years, is leaving that organization to head up another one.
Gardner tells the Albertan she has accepted a job as executive director of the Central Alberta Economic Partnership (CAEP).
Her last day on the job at ORE is April 28. Her first day at CAEP is May 1.
“The (ORE) board and I remain committed to support a productive transition,” Gardner wrote in a text.
ORE is looking for a replacement for Gardner, its president, James Carpenter, said in a news release issued April 12.
Carpenter is also chair of the CAEP board of directors.
“This transition will be seamless while clients, guests and partners can be confident the ORE team will deliver the same level of customer service and engagement they predict and trust,” Carpenter said.
Gardner has served with the ORE for a total of 14 years.
In 2019, when former ORE GM Tami Gardner, Tracy’s mother, stepped down, Tracy assumed the position of GM, amalgamating that job with her former position as events manager.
The Gardner family has farmed in the Olds area for many years.
Gardner was asked if her new job will require her to move.
“I am rooted very deeply in Olds as I am an integral member of our family farming business,” she wrote. “I look forward to travelling and engaging in so many CAEP member communities.”
The news release said Gardner’s "dedication to agriculture, community and youth is steadfast and will remain a legacy with ORE through the many partnerships and programming that are showcased annually.”
“I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve ORE and actively participate in this tremendous community,” she said.
“My profound love of all youth and rural development, agriculture commerce and communication celebration are manifested by my dedication to ORE.”
In her text to the Albertan, Gardner said, “I am most proud of the continued social and economic impact ORE has in our community and greater region, specifically, showcasing events and programs that garner profile, reputation and results.”
