Downtown Watertown Collective Names Raina Carter as First Downtown Director
- Steve Jurrens
- May 6
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Downtown Watertown Collective has announced the hiring of Raina Carter as the organization’s first-ever Downtown Director, marking a new chapter in coordinated efforts to strengthen and enhance the city’s historic downtown district.
The newly created position is the result of a collaborative partnership between downtown business owners, the Watertown Area Community Foundation, and the City of Watertown. The role is designed to unify stakeholders, support economic vitality, and expand programming and events that contribute to a thriving downtown experience.
Carter, a lifelong Watertown resident, brings both professional training and deep community roots to the position. She is a graduate of Watertown High School and holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality, Events, and Tourism Management from South Dakota State University. She is also continuing her education at Lake Area Technical College.
“Raina embodies everything this role was designed to represent — community connection, energy, and forward‑thinking leadership,” said Megan Olson, Chair of the Downtown Watertown Collective. “Her roots in Watertown, combined with her background in hospitality and events, make her uniquely positioned to help elevate the downtown experience. We are confident she will bring fresh ideas, strong collaboration, and a deep sense of pride to this role.”
As Downtown Director, Carter will work closely with businesses, organizations, and community partners to coordinate events, support local commerce, and help guide long‑term strategies for downtown development.
Carter said she is honored to step into the role.
“Watertown has always been home to me. I am incredibly honored for the opportunity to give back to a community that has given me so much,” she said. “I look forward to working alongside our downtown businesses, community partners, and residents to continue building a vibrant, welcoming, and thriving downtown.”
The Downtown Watertown Collective, together with the Watertown Area Community Foundation and the City of Watertown, says it remains committed to investing in the long‑term success of the district through collaboration, programming, and community engagement.
