February 3, 2010

From: Beth Walls, City Secretary, bwalls@levellandtexas.org

Contact: City Hall, 806.894.0113

Please See the attached news release from the International Economic Development Council.

Dave Quinn, Executive Director, Levelland Economic Development Corporation, Levelland Texas recently earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a national recognition that denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

The CEcD exam was administered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) on January 30 and 31 in Houston, TX at The Woodland’s Resort and Conference Center. Of the 32 economic developers who taking the exam, Mr. Quinn was one of only 10 to pass and receive their certification.

The CEcD designation recognizes qualified and dedicated practitioners in the economic development field and sets the standard of excellence within the profession. Candidates must pass a rigorous and comprehensive three-part, two-day examination, which tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency and judgment in the key areas of economic development, including business retention and expansion, marketing, finance, workforce development, community development, real estate, strategic planning, and management.

As highly competent economic development practitioners, Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders and community members to create leadership to build upon and maximize the economic development sector. Excellence in the economic development profession improves the well being, quality of life and opportunities for individuals, businesses and communities. There are currently more than 1,200 CEcDs in the United States.

The International Economic Development Council is the premiere organization for the economic development profession. Serving over 4,600 members, IEDC is the world’s largest professional membership organization providing a diversity of economic development services, including research and advisory services, conferences, professional development and legislative tracking. IEDC provides economic developers with the information and tools they need to build local economies and strives to draw upon and increase the collective expertise and influence of its diverse membership. IEDC also manages the Association of Defense Communities (ADC) which brings together public and private sector professionals involved with the redevelopment of closed military bases and privatization of military infrastructure.

Visit IEDC’s website at www.iedconline.org to learn more about membership, upcoming events and how IEDC can serve you.