Partnership CEO Jay Byers Graduates From Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – Greater Des Moines Partnership CEO Jay Byers graduated from the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute today at the Oklahoma University (OU) Economic Development Institute (EDI) Spring session held in San Antonio, Texas.
OU EDI is an intensive week long, three-tier program which provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for the economic development professional. OU EDI Dean Peter Abramo said, “As the premier organization dedicated to training economic development professionals, I am very pleased with this year’s graduates. They represent some of the finest economic development practitioners in the U.S. working to support their local communities. My congratulations to them.”
OU EDI classes focus on three major core areas including: Business Retention and Expansion, Real Estate and Finance, as well as areas of concentration in Marketing, Strategic Planning, Entrepreneurship and Managing Economic Development Organizations. Students complete 117 hours of instruction with curriculum selected from more than fifty seminars, workshops and discussion groups.
Beginning in 1962, OU EDI is celebrating its 54th year of service to the economic development community. Fully accredited by the International Economic Development Council, the program has trained over 4,000 graduates and remains the world’s leading economic development teacher.
“Greater Des Moines is the fastest-growing metro in the Midwest and continues to experience vibrant economic growth," said Jay Byers. "The best practices learned and takeaways from OU EDI will be helpful in our ongoing collective efforts to maximize the momentum in Des Moines."
About the Greater Des Moines Partnership
The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the economic and community development organization that serves Greater Des Moines (DSM), Iowa. Together with 23 Affiliate Chambers of Commerce and more than 6,000 regional business members, The Partnership drives economic growth with one voice, one mission and as one region. Through innovation, strategic planning and global collaboration, The Partnership grows opportunity, helps create jobs and promotes Des Moines as the best place to build a business, a career and a future.