Longtime Downtown Springfield Association director to step down

Rusty Worley is stepping down from his role as executive director of the Downtown Springfield Association after nearly two decades.

Worley told Springfield Business Journal this afternoon that he would work through the end of the nonprofit DSA's fiscal year on June 30.

"I've had a long tenure here and been able to be a part of working with dozens of small businesses and some iconic community events," he said. "After 19 and a half years, it's an opportunity to look for other things."

Worley, 55, said it was his decision to step down from the position, and he does not plan to retire.

"I'll be looking for other opportunities," he said. "It'll be a chance to spend a little more time with my family."

A DSA news release announcing Worley's resignation cited his support of events like Artsfest and Cider Days, as well as his support of small businesses through partnerships such as the city of Springfield and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

DSA board President Brian Mattson called Worley "a tireless advocate for downtown Springfield."

"His passion for making downtown a place to live, work and play is obvious," Mattson said in the release. "We all see him at the events and meetings, but behind the scenes, Rusty is busy running a staff, connecting with city officials and even cleaning up litter on the streets.”

Mattson said via email that the board is currently "strategizing for what the process looks like to find the next leader at DSA."

"No date has been determined yet for whomever fills that role," he said.