YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Four professionals from Lake to River Economic Development have earned a statewide credential recognizing their expertise in business growth, community development and strategic planning.

Sarah Boyarko, Matt Falter, Jason Neal and Michelle Phillips each were awarded the Ohio Economic Development Association’s OhioCED Best in Class economic developer certification, an advanced continuing education program developed in partnership with JobsOhio and Ohio University’s Voinovich School. 

Each received OEDA’s OhioCED Best in Class Economic Developer Certification Program. The requirements for the OhioCED certification program were extensive, involving the completion of core and advanced courses in economic development, development of a Capstone project and evaluation by a team of peer reviewers consisting of some of the most experienced economic developers in Ohio.

The program, known for its intensive coursework and peer-reviewed capstone projects, prepares professionals to lead in a competitive global economy.

Each member’s capstone project demonstrates a forward-thinking commitment to regional prosperity:

  • Sarah Boyarko, vice president of economic development, authored a strategic roadmap for the state Route 11 corridor, a key transportation and development spine of the region.
  • Matt Falter, director of talent engagement, developed and executed a plan for a regional talent summit to address workforce development needs.
  • Jason Neal, director of site strategies, explored economic reinvention opportunities in East Palestine.
  • Michelle Phillips, director of research, built a data-driven framework to expand international trade opportunities.

Interim CEO Alexa Sweeney Blackann emphasized the impact of the team’s accomplishments.

“This certification is both an impressive personal achievement for Sarah, Matt, Jason and Michelle and a strategic investment in the future of our region,” she said. “Their dedication reflects Lake to River’s commitment to delivering excellence on behalf of the businesses and communities we serve. The expertise they’ve gained makes our entire organization more capable of advancing site development, business attraction and workforce solutions that are tailored to eastern Ohio’s unique strengths.”