Business beat

Have an item for Business Beat? Send it to businessbeat@ spokesman.com.

Architecture

NAC|Architecture has hired Lauren Scranton as an education thought leader. In this role, Scranton will help architects and educators connect to design innovative learning environments. She has five years of experience working in higher education. Previously, Scranton served as a communications/social media intern at the Stanford Graduate School of Education.

Education

Kim Zentz has been named director of Washington State University’s engineering and technology management program. Previously, Zentz was the chief executive officer of the Innovate Washington Foundation. She has held several leadership positions in the utilities, alternative energy technology, economic development and transportation industries.

Finance

Abby Nuszkiewicz has joined Inland Northwest Bank as the assistant branch manager of the Coeur d’Alene branch. Previously, Nuszkiewicz was with Idaho Independent Bank.

Thrivent Financial has named Bruce Schmitt as a top partner with the organization and he will be recognized at the national conference in April. Schmitt was recognized for his performance in hiring and retaining financial representatives, as well as his work in sales growth and attracting new members.

Marketing

Kootenai County Fairgrounds has hired Ty Thomas as a marketing and resource development manager and Alexcia Jordan as an assistant fair manager and event coordinator. Thomas has experience in consumer marketing, advertising, business management, event coordinating and public relations. Jordan has experience in fundraising, volunteer recruitment and large scale event coordinating. She has served on the Pro-West Rodeo Board since 2008.

Miscellaneous

Randy Cameron, chief operating officer of Baker Construction & Development, received the Key to the City from Mayor David Condon. Cameron has been a member of the Spokane Park Board since 2008 and recently completed his third consecutive term as president.

Cafe Rio Mexican Grill has opened a location at 4911 S. Regal St. For more information, call (509) 319-3430.

Tracie Zanol has opened an Anytime Fitness location at 1804 W. Francis Ave. For more information, call (509) 624-4444.

Nonprofit

Juan Fernandez has joined Christ Clinic and Christ Kitchen as the development director. Previously, Fernandez served as an associate pastor at Spokane First Church of the Nazarene. Fernandez also has experience in the fields of broadcasting, finance and creative arts.

Real estate

John Timme, Tom Brodrick and Joshua Orth have joined Exit Real Estate North as agents.

Gayle Terry, Darren Kentner and Taylor Kennedy have joined Windermere Real Estate’s Manito office as brokers.