U.S. Economic Development Administration reposted this
Former U.S. Assistant Secretary, Economic Development Administration. Servant leader, social impact advocate and disruptor
A momentous day for our nation's economic progress! Congressional bipartisan efforts have led to the passing of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which includes the reauthorization of the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA). After 20 years of dedicated work towards reauthorization, the EDA has been equipped with modern tools and authorities to effectively continue to carry out its mission of providing crucial economic investments, technical assistance, and resources to stimulate economic growth in communities nationwide. Throughout my tenure as Assistant Secretary of EDA, achieving reauthorization stood as a paramount goal for me and the entire EDA team. It was a vision prominently displayed on my office whiteboard during my time at EDA. Numerous exceptional EDA staff members, colleagues at the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Economic Development Organizations warrant recognition for their unwavering dedication and support in accomplishing this milestone. Special gratitude goes to the leadership of Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), Senator Shelley Capito (R-WV), Representative Rick Larsen, and Representative Sam Graves for their collaborative efforts in securing this historic vote (97 Yea - 1 Nay). I firmly believe in the unique responsibility and unparallel role that government can and must play in improving the lives of its citizens. That is the responsibility EDA has always fulfilled with exceptional professionalism and commitment. Yesterday's vote was more than just an congressional action, it solidifies the outstanding and very needed work that EDA does in community, with partners and for the benefit of our Nation. As I listened to outgoing U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) deliver his farewell remarks, his words resonated: "All public service is a trust given in faith and accepted in honor." This is what the broader EDA community of stakeholders do every day. Thank you for those of you who were on this journey. Acknowledging the collective efforts of individuals like Angela Ewell-Madison, Ryan Smith, Ben Page, Susie Feliz, Nathan Ohle, Joe McKinney, Matthew Chase, Michael Matthews, Mirielle Burgoyne, Clarence Anthony, Tony Pipa; Mark Muro; Xavier de Souza Briggs; Alex Jacquez; Maryam Janani-Flores, Cristina Killingsworth; Dennis Alvord; Jeff Roberson; Mara Quintero Campbell, Daria Daniel, Becky Corby; Angela Martinez, Jon Cardinal, Bruce Katz, Don Graves, John Fernandez, Phillip Singerman, William A. Ramos, Christopher J. Epps, MBA, Sarah L. Samuel Marquez, Jonathan Lovitz, Craig Buerstatte, Alex Smith