Cyrena Weeks
Cyrena Weeks is a community and economic development leader currently serving as Executive Director of the Tri-County Regional Development Council, which serves McKenzie, Williams, and Divide counties in North Dakota. She joined the council four years ago as a Community Engagement Coordinator and stepped into the Executive Director role following the retirement of the previous director. In her current position, Cyrena leads regional development initiatives, builds cross-county partnerships, and works closely with local governments, organizations, and stakeholders to advance sustainable community and economic outcomes. Guided by her personal philosophy to “Always choose joy,” she brings a collaborative and people-centered approach to leadership.
Cyrena’s professional focus centers on connecting people and organizations to strengthen communities and drive economic growth. She emphasizes listening to local stakeholders and convening county and community partners to align priorities and advance shared goals. With nearly 15 years of experience in grant writing and related development work, she has supported a wide range of initiatives that enhance infrastructure, workforce development, and community programs. In addition, she opened and directs the Bio Girls site in Williston and serves as a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) advisor, further supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Her career includes approximately ten years with the Department of Commerce, where she worked in workforce and economic development. After returning to her hometown of Williston, Cyrena served in leadership and development roles at Trinity Christian School, held children’s and executive pastoral leadership roles in ministry, and later transitioned back into regional economic development. She earned an Associate degree earlier in her career and later completed a Bachelor of Business Administration from Grand Canyon University. She also recently completed certification as a business advisor through the Small Business Development Center, strengthening her ability to support business growth and community development initiatives.
• Grand Canyon University - BSBA
• Williston State College - AAS
• Ambassador of the Year – Williston Area Chamber of Commerce
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the influence of strong mentors, meaningful community involvement, and a commitment to empowering others. One of my most influential mentors, Doug Black, helped shape my leadership style and strengthened my skills in fundraising and organizational development, which have been foundational throughout my career. I am also deeply committed to mentoring young women through Bio Girls, a program I helped bring to Williston after learning about it through a Chamber of Commerce newsletter. As the volunteer director of the Williston site for the past five years, I have focused on expanding the program’s reach and impact, with a goal of serving more girls across North Dakota and helping them build confidence, leadership skills, and resilience.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be passionate about connecting people. Be willing to listen and value bringing people together and hearing what they want to bring to the area.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are faith, service, integrity, and community. My involvement with Freedom Church in Williston has shaped my commitment to servant leadership, compassion, and investing in people. I believe in leading with authenticity, listening with empathy, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Whether in my professional role or personal life, I strive to build meaningful relationships, uplift others, and approach every opportunity with purpose, gratitude, and a commitment to positive impact.