Ashley Richardson, Director of Strategy and Communications for Charleston County Economic Development, graduated from the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute on April 29, 2021, at the OU EDI Spring session.
OU EDI is an intensive 117-hour certificate program that provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for the economic development professional.
OU EDI Dean Mark James said, “OU EDI is the premier organization dedicated to training economic development professionals. These graduates represent some of the finest economic development practitioners in the U.S. working to support their local communities. My congratulations to them.”
Charleston County Economic Development Executive Director Steve Dykes commended Richardson in her efforts, stating, “continuing education ensures a high standard of professional service and quality here in Charleston County. We want our community to know that we are always seeking to enhance our knowledge base and competency to encourage Charleston County’s growth and vibrancy.”
OU EDI classes focus on three major core areas including: Business Retention and Expansion, Real Estate, and Credit Analysis, as well as areas of concentration in Marketing, Strategic Planning, Entrepreneurship, and Managing Economic Development Organizations. Students typically take 1-2 years to complete the program through a series on intensive in-person or online courses.
Beginning in 1962, OU EDI is celebrating its 59th year of service to the economic development community. Fully accredited by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the program has trained nearly 6,000 professionals and remains the world’s leading economic development teacher.
Richardson has been with Charleston County Economic Development since 2016. She was previously with The Town of Mount Pleasant and has 13 years of economic development experience. She has a BS degree in Marketing from The University of Alabama and an MBA from The Citadel Graduate College.
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