Meet The Team: Dawn Hjelseth
Who’s excited for another introduction?! We are happy to formally introduce Dawn Hjelseth - River City Company’s Vice President of Marketing & Communications!
With a love for fun and adventure, Dawn is no stranger to using that passion in program development. Before coming to River City, she worked with Chattanooga nonprofit green|spaces and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Chattanooga to create sustainable programs & outreach efforts to connect community members to resources. She’s now the leader of the team that helps plan your favorite events such as Rock the Riverfront or Reindeer on the Riverfront - though her job’s not always easy, she makes it look like it is! Dawn works hard to ensure that the Chattanooga community feels connected to who River City is, what we do and our purpose in serving our area.
We asked her a few questions to learn more about who she is in and out of the office! Enjoy!
What is your role here at River City?
As Vice President of Marketing and Communication, I have the unique role of supporting all departments within River City Company. Informing residents and visitors of all the amazing events, restaurants, shops and attractions in downtown is a top priority especially after COVID-19. My department also has the pleasure of engaging with other downtown programming partners along with curating our own downtown events to welcome and create a space for all to explore the unique culture, entertainment and experiences in Downtown.
What is your favorite project you’ve been a part of here at River City Co?
Rock the Riverfront was an incredible project to launch and execute. Developed directly from community comments during the ONE Riverfront planning process, Rock the Riverfront was made for and produced with the support of amazing local Chattanoogans. From lantern workshops with neighborhood groups to featuring local musicians, vendors and artists, tens of thousands came together for the simple pleasure of playing together and enjoying our amazing outdoor spaces.
What’s your favorite place to grab dinner in Chattanooga?
It depends on the time of year – You’ll find me at Champy’s for crawfish almost every weekend when they are in season. Our other regular spots include Taco Mamacita, Basecamp, and Easy Bistro.
What is a hidden talent or a hobby you have?
Again, it depends on the time of year! My husband and I love to forage for mushrooms in the spring. In the summer, you’ll find us on the river paddling on the weekends and in the fall, I’m knee deep in grapes making wine.
We hope you have been enjoying these blogs and feel more connected to our team. We hope to see you at our upcoming events!
Happy Holidays!
Lauryn Allman & Madison McMahon
Communications & Marketing Interns