The Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) has named Heather McDowell as its new executive director, effective September 2025. McDowell brings nearly 20 years of experience in economic development, workforce innovation, and public-private partnerships across Oklahoma. Most recently, as director of economic development at Port Muskogee, she helped secure major investments that positioned the city as Oklahoma’s top-ranked community for announced capital projects. “We are thrilled to welcome Heather McDowell to the EEDA,” said Kathy Wallis, EEDA board chairman. “She stood out in our nationwide search for her expertise, proven track record, and enthusiasm for both Edmond’s history and its potential.” Her career also includes leadership roles at the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), the Bixby Chamber of Commerce, and the Tulsa Regional Chamber, where she developed programs supporting small business growth, STEM innovation, and regional competitiveness. McDowell holds credentials from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management and the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute. “I’m honored to step into this role and look forward to building upon the momentum and success already established in Edmond,” McDowell said. “I’m excited to work alongside our Board, city leaders, UCO, and community stakeholders to continue driving purposeful growth and expanding opportunities.” Jennifer Springer, who served as interim director during the search, will remain in a consulting role to assist with the leadership transition and implementation of EEDA’s strategic plan.
The Edmond Economic Development Authority (EEDA) has named Heather McDowell as its new executive director, effective September 2025.
McDowell brings nearly 20 years of experience in economic development, workforce innovation, and public-private partnerships across Oklahoma. Most recently, as director of economic development at Port Muskogee, she helped secure major investments that positioned the city as Oklahoma’s top-ranked community for announced capital projects.
“We are thrilled to welcome Heather McDowell to the EEDA,” said Kathy Wallis, EEDA board chairman. “She stood out in our nationwide search for her expertise, proven track record, and enthusiasm for both Edmond’s history and its potential.”
Her career also includes leadership roles at the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), the Bixby Chamber of Commerce, and the Tulsa Regional Chamber, where she developed programs supporting small business growth, STEM innovation, and regional competitiveness. McDowell holds credentials from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management and the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.
“I’m honored to step into this role and look forward to building upon the momentum and success already established in Edmond,” McDowell said. “I’m excited to work alongside our Board, city leaders, UCO, and community stakeholders to continue driving purposeful growth and expanding opportunities.”
Jennifer Springer, who served as interim director during the search, will remain in a consulting role to assist with the leadership transition and implementation of EEDA’s strategic plan.
