Members’ Corner: Walter W. Woods
Name, Title, Organization:
Walter W. Woods, Coordinator for Outreach and Strategic Initiatives, University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Explain your background in economic development:
My role is a mixture of engagement and economic development. I seek opportunities that connect the university to entities outside of academia that aid, support, and promote the university’s mission of creating a more sustainable community.
What are your key priorities within your current position?
Promote Town & Gown connections, fostering the growth of community and institution. Serving and participating in organizations that provide opportunities for knowledge transfer and sharing. Engaging in conversations that support UMES’s mission of inclusivity and diversity. Serve as an informational conduit to local businesses and municipal leaders and promote economic growth opportunities.
What professional pressures keep you up at night?
Missed opportunities to engage within the community that could lead to advances in organizational presence.
What attributes are unique to your community?
A small rural town with a large university at its doorstep. Direct connection with international entities that promote growth and economic opportunity becoming a center of healthcare education excellence (Pharmacy, Physical therapy, and Veterinary medicine).
What are your locality’s top three “selling points” for future growth?
Land – large areas of untapped land are available that are underdeveloped. Opportunity – A community poised for change and growth; it just needs exposure.
If you could wave a magic wand, what would you want to work with MEDA on to move Maryland forward?
To educate small and minority business owners about funding and resources that are available to them. Helping to create education options that can be implemented on a small, individualized scale as a way to remove. To aid in creating solid business and development plans that will allow for organizational growth and sustainability.
Please include any personal background information that you’d like to share (Alma mater, Military Service, hobbies, etc):
Graduate of University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), Former Army Officer, Tennis Coach, Non-Profit Executive
