Members’ Corner: Jonathan Boniface

 

Name, Title, Organization:

Jonathan Boniface, Director of Research and Program Development, Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation

Explain your background in economic development:

Since joining the team at AAEDC in 2019, I have served as the Research Manager and now I am the Director of Research and Program Development. Recently, I served on Anne Arundel County’s School Adequate Public Facilities Workgroup providing insight from the economic development perspective. I previously served for many years on various boards, including my local chamber of commerce.

What are your key priorities within your current position?

In my current position, I handle research and data reporting through many publications, surveys, and reports. I also assist in program creation and process development.

Does one particular project spark your excitement? If so, describe it below.

There are many projects that spark my excitement, but the most outward facing project I have been excited about was the revamping of the AAEDC Economic Indicators publication from a 2-page data sheet into an 8-page booklet with a custom section highlighting various data topics and/or county information.

What professional pressures keep you up at night?

The pressures of ensuring my data reporting is timely and accurate, as well as balancing my time between my profession and family.

What attributes are unique to your community?

Proximity to a major international airport, the state capital, Fort Meade, the Port of Baltimore, two major cities, rural countryside, and the Chesapeake Bay make Anne Arundel County unique. It is truly a place like no other.

What are your locality’s top three “selling points” for future growth?

1. Proximity to BWI, Fort Meade, DC, Baltimore, and the City of Annapolis.

2. Our focus on redevelopment and revitalization.

3. Our residents…as our County’s slogan states, it is “The Best Place for All”.

If you could wave a magic wand, what would you want to work with MEDA on to move Maryland forward?

Redevelopment and revitalization of distressed areas.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with MEDA and your fellow members?

I am looking forward to networking and educational opportunities through MEDA.

Please include any personal background information that you’d like to share (Alma mater, Military Service, hobbies, etc):

I am a graduate of Frostburg State University and my hobbies include photography, graphic design, and skiing.