Available Board Seats for 2026 & Process

Jul 12, 2025 | Board & Committees

The following positions are available for selection by the Nominating Committee for the Board of Directors of the Ohio Economic Development Association (OEDA) for a two-year term, beginning on January 1, 2026. The bylaws also allow for several chair-appointed positions. (Read bylaws. See entire board.)

>> Click here to apply.

1. Area Directors

4 seats open for 2026 – “One such director elected from each of the seven (7) designated areas of the State of Ohio.” Traditionally, this has meant Local Economic Development Organization (LEDO) representatives, but the bylaws do not mandate that. Two-year terms. All current Area Directors are eligible to run again (we do not have term limits).

  • Area Director – Southwest. David Fehr’s term ends.
  • Area Director – East. Stephanie Gilchrist’s term ends.
  • Area Director – Central. Brittany Misner’s term ends.
  • Area Director – Northwest. Thomas Winston term ends.

2. At-Large Directors

3 seats open for 2026 – Two-Year terms. All current At-Large directors are able to run again (we do not have term limits).

  • At-Large Director – Anthony Cadle’s term ends.
  • At-Large Director – Nathan Cahall’s term ends.
  • At-Large Director – Max Upton’s term ends.

3. Requirements

Requirements include the candidate support the mission of OEDA, works in Ohio, has past involvement with OEDA or has indicated interest, is employed at an ED organization or in support activities, and is an OEDA member in good standing.

4. Selection Criteria

In addition, the Nominating Committee will evaluate the candidates based on skills and experience they bring; diversity (geographic, community, organizational, personal); ability to devote time and control schedule to ensure attendance; economic development experience; leadership experience; character, reputation, and ability to collaborate; past OEDA contributions; and OEDA leadership potential.

5. Process

The application process will open on Monday, July 14, 2025 and remain open until Friday, August 22, 2025 (close of business). The Nominating Committee will review and score applications and then meet and discuss, evaluate and finalize the slate of candidates for 2026 by the end of September. The slate will then be submitted to the membership for potential approval at the Oct. 17 annual membership meeting.

>> Click here to apply.

If you have any questions, please call or email David Zak at 419.912.1150 or dzak@ohioeda.com.