Two MEDA Members Earn Certified Economic Developer Designation

By Sandy Dubay | Jun 29, 2021

BALTIMORE (June 29, 2021) – Earlier this month, Rosa Cruz, CEcD, Vice President of Communications at the Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation (AAEDC), and Tamar Osterman, CEcD, Senior Business Development Representative at the Maryland Department of Commerce, both earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD). This is a national recognition that denotes a mastery of skills in economic development, professional attainment, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. Cruz and Osterman are both members of the Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA).

“MEDA congratulates Rosa and Tamar on their marvelous achievement of becoming Certified Economic Developers,” said Trish Heidenreich, CEcD. “We are tremendously proud of both of these hardworking women, and we’re thrilled to add two more CEcDs to our association,” said Jamie Williams, CEcD. Heidenreich and Williams are the MEDA Professional Development Committee Co-Chairs.

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) delivers courses and administered the CEcD exam in mid-June. To learn more about certification, visit www.IEDConline.com.

The CEcD designation recognizes qualified and dedicated practitioners in the economic development field and sets the standard of excellence within the profession. Candidates must pass a rigorous and comprehensive examination, which has three parts and spans two days. The exam tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency, and judgment in the following key areas of economic development:

  • business retention and expansion
  • finance & credit analysis
  • marketing and attraction
  • strategic planning
  • entrepreneurial & small business development
  • managing economic development organizations
  • neighborhood development strategies
  • real estate development & reuse
  • technology-led economic development
  • workforce development strategies
  • foreign direct investment & exporting

As highly competent economic development professionals, Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders, and community members to lead and maximize the economic development sector. Excellence in the economic development profession improves the well-being, quality of life, and opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities. There are currently over 1,100 active CEcDs in the United States.

MEDA Members can learn more about the MEDA Professional Development Committee and steps towards earning CEcD certification by visiting www.MEDAmd.com/professional-development.

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.

MEDA’s membership includes economic development practitioners employed by government, businesses, and chamber of commerce and other professionals with interest in the economy of Maryland. Through its regular meetings, special programs and projects, MEDA 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.

Leave a Reply