Economic Development Academy Certifies Latest Cohort of Developers for North Carolina
East Carolina University’s Economic Development Academy has certified a new cohort of professionals as North Carolina economic developers at the close of the 2025–2026 session. The university’s program continues to provide both experienced practitioners and those new to the field with relevant training and a pathway to a recognized professional credential.
Earning the certification equips participants with practical tools and a competitive advantage, strengthening local economies and foster long-term community prosperity across North Carolina.
To earn certification, participants complete an introductory course through the UNC School of Government, followed by six specialized courses delivered through ECU, culminating in a capstone project. Candidates undergo a formal review process prior to receiving certification.
The 2026 certification recipients include:
- Ray Jordan, Director, Sampson County Economic Development
- Johnnie Taylor, City Manager, City of Lexington
- Derrick McArthur, Economic Development Manger, City of Fayetteville
- Julie Graham, Existing Industry Director, North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region
- Tiffany Henry, Director of Economic Development, Jackson County Economic Development
- Mary Jane Lyonnais, Project Manager, Upper Coastal Plain Council of Governments
- Michael Matthews, Assistant County Manager, Edgecombe County
- Nick Farmerie, Assistant County Manager/ Community Development Director, Ashe County
- Nancy Johnston, Executive Director, Piedmont Triad Office, NC Biotechnology Center
- Emily Yeager, Director of the Crisp Small Business Resource Center, East Carolina University
- Julie Kruse-John, VP of Operations & Public Affairs, Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce
- Bryan Eatmon, Existing Industry Specialist, Person County Economic Development
The certification program is a partnership between ECU’s Division of Research, Economic Development and Engagement and the Office of Continuing and Professional Education, and the North Carolina Economic Development Association (NCEDA). Begun in 2018, the academy reflects the university’s commitment to regional transformation and economic growth with a curriculum tailored to the unique opportunities facing North Carolina communities.
The newly certified developers were recognized during the annual NCEDA conference, held Wilmington and June 17-19th.
Instruction and mentorship for the program are provided by ECU faculty alongside partners from the University of North Carolina Wilmington and industry experts.
Participants complete a total of 84 contact hours covering key areas such as business retention and expansion, industry recruitment, innovation and entrepreneurship, data and analytics, organizational management, legal frameworks, and related topics essential to modern economic development practice.
The academy is open to economic development professionals, elected officials, business leaders, and others interested in advancing economic growth in North Carolina.