The continued success of the North Carolina Economic Development Association depends largely on the time and talent members provide through our standing committees. The members of these committees have an opportunity to support NCEDA’s important efforts and achieve professional and personal growth by serving in the areas that interest them.
NCEDA needs and appreciates the work of active and involved members, and serving on a committee is a great way to provide that support. We encourage you to identify the area that interests you most and contact the chair of that committee to learn how you can become involved.
Conference Planning Committees (Fall, Spring & Annual Conferences)
These committees set the conference theme, shape program content, and collaborate with the NCEDA management team on planning and logistics. Members identify session topics, recommend speakers, and help ensure an engaging attendee experience. They meet through their respective conference dates.
- 2026 Fall Conference Committee (Co-Chairs: Julie Pruett and David Ramsey) – Meets every other week via Zoom beginning in early August.
- 2027 Spring Conference Committee (Co-Chairs: Ben Kinney and Blake Moyer) – Meets every other week via Zoom beginning in December.
- 2027 Annual Conference Committee (Chair: Clark Duncan) – Meets every other week via Zoom beginning in late March.
Advancement and Engagement Committee
Co-Chairs: André Lennon and James Carter
This committee promotes engagement, collaboration, and opportunity across the Association, Foundation, and economic development profession. Members meet quarterly via Zoom to identify outreach opportunities, recommend initiatives, and support a welcoming, connected membership experience.
Emerging Executives Committee *
Chair: James Carter / Vice Chair: Emily Martin
This committee plans the annual Emerging Executives Forum, coordinates the Career Trek and community service projects, and oversees the Mentorship Program in partnership with the Professional Development Committee. Members meet virtually every other month.
* Must be under 40 or have fewer than five years of experience in economic development.
Legislative Committee
Chair: Trey Cash / Vice-Chair: Leigh Cockram
This committee leads our legislative and advocacy efforts, including legislative priorities, calls to action, Legislative Day, and outreach initiatives. Members meet several times a year via Zoom, with one in-person meeting held in December.
Marketing and Membership Committee
Chair: Marvin Price / Vice Chair: Jenn Bosser
This committee develops marketing strategies to enhance our visibility while leading member recruitment, retention, and engagement efforts. Responsibilities include promoting member benefits, supporting outreach initiatives, and helping facilitate New Member Orientation sessions. Members meet virtually every other month during the program year.
Professional Development Committee
Chair: Nate Groover / Vice Chair: Dan Warrick
This committee guides NCEDA’s educational programming, including webinars and the Practitioners Workshop. Members also oversee the awards program, collaborate on the Mentorship Program, and work with the NCEDA Foundation to select scholarship recipients. The committee meets virtually every other month during the program year.
