Women Who Build: Conservative Female Leaders Driving Economic Change in the South

Leading with Values, Building with Purpose When people think about economic development in the South, they often imagine boardrooms filled with men in suits or industrial deals negotiated behind closed doors. But if you take a closer look—especially here in Alabama—you’ll see something different: women, rooted in conservative values, leading the charge for growth, revival, […]

Heritage-Driven Growth: Using Local History to Spark Economic Renewal

History Isn’t a Hurdle—It’s a Launchpad If there’s one thing I’ve learned after spending over two decades working with communities across Alabama, it’s this: the path to economic renewal isn’t always paved with new technology or flashy developments. Sometimes, it begins by looking backward—by honoring the people, places, and stories that built the community in […]

The County-by-County Advantage: Ground-Level Economic Development That Works

One County at a Time Economic development doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It doesn’t come in one-size-fits-all programs or blanket policies that try to apply the same solution to every community. Real, lasting economic growth starts at the ground level—with people, places, and purpose. And in a state like Alabama, where every county has a […]

From Contracts to Community: Bridging Legal Expertise and Economic Empowerment

Where Law Meets Local Impact Most people wouldn’t immediately connect contracts and legal policy with revitalized Main Streets, new jobs, or stronger small towns. But in my experience, they’re not just connected—they’re inseparable. My background in contracts, procurement, and policy didn’t just give me academic credentials—it gave me the tools to solve real-world problems in […]

Legacy as Leverage: How Community History Fuels Economic Development

The Power of a Story Rooted in Place Every time I walk through a historic downtown or pass an old church that’s stood the test of time, I’m reminded that economic development isn’t just about new buildings or business incentives—it’s about people, stories, and legacy. When I visit Alabama’s 67 counties (and I’ve been to […]