MEDA Board Member Lands on Development Counsellors International “40 under 40” List
BALTIMORE, Md.- Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA), Professional Development Chair Heather Gramm, CEcD, has been honored with the “40 under 40” award by Development Counsellors International (DCI). The award winners were announced on Jan. 26 at the Economic Development Council Leadership Summit in Palm Beach, Fla.
The award recognizes the economic development profession’s influential movers and shakers. A committee of five members evaluated and selected the winners based on their contributions to the economic development industry.
“I’m honored to be among those recognized as rising stars in the field of economic development. I’m passionate about the work we do in this field, and about making Maryland a better place. It’s humbling to be recognized by my colleagues, and a privilege to work with so many dedicated professionals at DBED and across the state,” said Gramm.
In her role on the MEDA board, Gramm mentors new professionals who are seeking certification within the field and collaborates with others on the professional development committee on courses that are offered in Maryland, including the Basic Economic Development Course.
“Heather has always been committed to the career of economic development. She serves her fellow colleagues by bringing quality professional development opportunities to Maryland through her involvement with the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA). She is one of the brightest young leaders in this line of work and an influential member of our association,” said Larry Twele, CEcD, president of MEDA.
Aside from her work with MEDA, Gramm is currently employed with the Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED) as the Director of Regional Growth and Retention. Gramm and seven other team members work together to support job creation and business retention in the state. The department works to expand Maryland’s growth by making resource connections. All the while, connecting in-state businesses to state and federal resources.
“We are incredibly proud of Heather’s recognition as one of the rising stars of economic development,” said DBED Secretary Mike Gill. “Heather has a tremendous depth and breadth of knowledge from her years working directly with companies on attraction and retention projects, and we are fortunate to have her on our DBED team.”
Prior to her work for DBED, she served the City of Frederick for eleven years as an economic development specialist and a business development specialist. She has conducted market research and data analysis as well as public relations and advertising for the City.
“Heather is a driving force behind the Professional Development Committee at MEDA. She’s not only a problem solver, but she is excellent at bringing people together to work toward common goals. She is very deserving of this leadership award,” said Pam Ruff, executive director of MEDA.
About MEDA
MEDA is a nonprofit organization of economic development professionals. Established in 1961, MEDA members promote the economic well being of Maryland by working to improve the state’s business climate and the professionalism of those in the field of economic development.
The MEDA membership includes economic development practitioners employed by government, business, chambers of commerce and other professionals with an interest in the economy of Maryland. Through its regular meetings, special programs and projects, members address such diverse issues as local planning, workforce, transportation, international trade, tourism and finance.
MEDA members work diligently transforming lives by creating opportunities, inspiring innovation and enriching communities in Maryland. To learn more about MEDA, visit www.medamd.com.
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