Lori Huguley Honor

April 30, 2010

Lori Huguley, Economic Development Project Manager for the City of Opelika, Alabama, recently earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD), a national recognition that denotes a mastery of principal skills in economic development, professional attainment and a commitment to personal and professional growth. 

The CEcD exam was administered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) on April 17 and 18 in Alexandria, VA at The Westin Alexandria. 

With 5 years of economic development experience, Ms. Huguley has contributed to the success of Opelika Economic Development by recruiting new industry and supporting the existing businesses in Opelika. Al Cook, Director of the Opelika Economic Development Department and also a CEcD said, “This designation solidifies Lori’s development as an Economic Development Professional. I’m proud of her for her commitment and dedication to attain this much sought after certification.” 

Mayor Gary Fuller concurs with Al Cook’s remarks and ads, “I’m very proud of Lori and this significant achievement.  Al has an exceptional staff that he personally picked, and Lori is an outstanding example of his effort.  Lori has done, and continues to do, an extraordinary job for our City!”

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 three-part, two-day examination, which tests a practitioner’s knowledge, proficiency and judgment in the key areas of economic development, including business retention and expansion, marketing, finance, workforce development, community development, real estate, strategic planning, and management.

As highly competent economic development practitioners, Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders and community members to create leadership to build upon 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 more than 1,200 CEcDs in the United States.

The International Economic Development Council is the premiere organization for the Economic Development profession.  Serving over 4,600 members, IEDC is the world’s largest professional membership organization providing a diversity of economic development services, including research and advisory services, conferences, professional development and legislative tracking.  IEDC provides economic developers with the information and tools they need to build local economies and strives to draw upon and increase the collective expertise and influence of its diverse membership.  IEDC also manages the Association of Defense Communities (ADC) which brings together public and private sector professionals involved with the redevelopment of closed military bases and privatization of military infrastructure.

Visit IEDC’s website at www.iedconline.org to learn more about membership, upcoming events and how IEDC can serve you.