Jack Russell, President and CEO of the OneZone Chamber of Commerce, has graduated from the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.
Russell
OU EDI is an intensive 117-hour certificate program which provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for the economic development professional. Mark James, Dean, said, “OU EDI is the premier organization dedicated to training economic development professionals. These graduates represent some of the finest economic development practitioners in the U.S. working to support their local communities.”
OU EDI classes focus on three major core areas including: Business Retention and Expansion, Real Estate, and Credit Analysis, as well as areas of concentration in Workforce Development, Marketing, Strategic Planning, Entrepreneurship, Community & Neighborhood Development, and Managing Economic Development Organizations. Students typically take one to two years to complete the program through a series of intensive in-person or online courses.
“A few years ago, I felt it was important to invest my time and energy around furthering my education in Economic Development, especially when it comes to the work across our county,” Russell said. “I believe the many hours I have put in will only enhance our organization’s ability to support our community and membership.”
OU EDI began in 1962 and is celebrating its 59th year of service to the economic development community. Fully accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the program has certified nearly 6,000 professionals and remains the world’s leading economic development teacher.