Christi Bell receives Designation of Certified Economic Developer from the International Economic Development Council

Christi Bell, director of the University of Alaska Center for Economic Development, 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 March 19 and 20 in Alexandria, VA. With more than 17 years of economic development experience in Alaska, Bell has been responsible for economic and financial analysis, community planning, business development counseling and entrepreneurship capacity building across Alaska.

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 judgement in the key areas of economic development, including workforce development, community development, business retention and expansion, marketing, finance, real estate development, strategic planning and management.

As highly competent economic development practitioners, Certified Economic Developers work with public officials, business leaders, institutes of higher learning 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 approximately 1,200 CEcDs in the United States with this designation. Bell is the first Alaska-based and trained economic development practitioner to receive this designation.

Visit IEDC's website at www.iedconline.org to learn more.