Guthrie’s Economic Development Director, Shawnda Rooney, Earns Prestigious CEcD Certification

Guthrie, OK – The City of Guthrie is proud to announce that Shawnda Rooney, Economic Development
Director, has officially earned the designation of Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) by the International
Economic Development Council (IEDC). Rooney is one of only 37 professionals to join the ranks of newly
certified CEcDs this year, an achievement that highlights her dedication, expertise, and leadership in the field of
economic development.
The CEcD designation is a globally recognized credential that signifies a high level of knowledge, experience,

and professional excellence. To qualify, candidates must complete at least four consecutive years of paid, full-
time economic development experience, as well as an extensive curriculum of coursework and a rigorous three-
part examination process.

Rooney completed the required Core Competency courses, which include:
• Basic Economic Development Course (BEDC)
• Business Retention & Expansion
• Economic Development Credit Analysis
• Real Estate Development & Reuse
She also fulfilled the Elective Competency course requirements in:
• Strategic Planning
• Marketing and Attraction
• Small Business and Entrepreneurship

To achieve certification, Rooney passed a comprehensive three-part exam consisting of multiple-choice and
short-answer questions, essay responses on key economic development topics, and an oral interview conducted
by a panel of current CEcD professionals.
“We are incredibly proud of Shawnda for earning this prestigious certification,” said Eddie Faulkner, Guthrie
City Manager. “Her accomplishment reflects not only her personal commitment to professional growth but also
Guthrie’s dedication to fostering smart and sustainable economic development.”
The CEcD credential is awarded by the International Economic Development Council, the largest membership
organization for economic developers in the world. As a CEcD, Rooney joins a distinguished group of leaders
committed to advancing the economic well-being of their communities through strategic planning, business
support, and community engagement.
Join us in Congratulating Shawnda Rooney on earning this prestigious certification!