Get to Know the Candiates
Dr. Gavin Beckford, Economic Development and DDA Manager, City of Canton
Dr. Gavin Beckford leads with service at the center of everything he does. As Economic Development and DDA Manager, he shows up for his community, peers, and the next generation, mentoring openly, sharing insight, and helping others move forward with confidence. His work in Canton Township reflects that mindset, turning ideas into action and building partnerships that create real opportunities for residents and businesses. Beyond his role, he serves across regional and state organizations and gives back to families in need each year. Gavin’s path, from
being born in Kingston, Jamaica, to Howard University, an MBA at Babson, and a PhD from the Instituto de Empresa in Madrid, Spain, shaped his global perspective. He enjoys photography, travel, cooking, and time with his wife and two children.
Statement of Interest
I would like to serve on the MEDA board to contribute my knowledge, experience, and talent towards enhancing Michigan, where my family and I reside. By applying these attributes, I believe that I bring a unique perspective at what is a critical time for Michigan and Economic Development professionals. Innovative approaches will be essential to address issues such as:
- Diminishing Access to Grant Funding & Developing Public/Private Partnerships
- Navigating Conflicting Stakeholder Priorities
- Supporting Municipalities in Maintaining Control of their Zoning and Development
- Managing Climate Change Impact on a local/regional/State level.
- Implementing Workforce Housing Solutions
- In addition, I have a collaborative spirit and engaging personality (so I’ve been told), which has allowed me to build relationships across organizations and municipalities to achieve objectives.
To that end, I hope that my candidacy will be favorably received.
Lashawna R. Manigault, Small Business Services, Director, District Business Liaison, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
Lashawna Manigault is a lifelong Detroiter and experienced economic development professional with over a two decades of experience across Michigan’s Workforce and Small Business sectors, Lashawna has spent the past 10 years committed to ensuring that small businesses are seen, supported, and positioned to
thrive. In her current role as Director of the District Business Liaison Program at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, she leads a citywide team in partnership with the Mayor’s office and City Council that connects Detroit entrepreneurs to resources, helps them navigate regulatory challenges, and advocates for the needs of neighborhood businesses and commercial corridors. Lashawna is known for bringing people and partners together, turning community feedback into practical solutions, and keeping business owners at the center of the work. Her leadership and service have been recognized through the City of Detroit Human Rights Award and the Michigan Chronicle’s Women of Excellence honor.
Statement of Interest
I am extremely excited and optimistic about the opportunity to serve on the MEDA Board because I believe that the neighborhood businesses and the communities we serve should have a stronger voice in how economic development strategies are shaped across Michigan. I bring the perspective of someone who works directly with entrepreneurs every day and understands both the opportunities available to them as well as the barriers they face. I also see board service as an opportunity to not only bring Detroit’s neighborhood economic development experience to the conversation, but a chance to learn from economic development leaders across the state, with the goal of helping to shape practical, inclusive strategies that move Michigan’s economy forward.
Mary Myers, Director of Economic Development Services, Lake Superior Community Partnership
Mary Myers is the Director of Economic Development Services at the Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) in Marquette, Michigan. She has more than 10 years of experience in economic development and is currently working toward her Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
In her role at LSCP, Mary manages the Community and Business Development team,
which works with businesses through every stage of their lifecycle, from startup and growth to expansion and succession, helping connect them with the resources, tools, and support they need to succeed. Her professional experience also includes project management, customer service, and real estate. Mary also manages a $1 million revolving loan portfolio for the Economic Development Corporation.
Mary currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA) and Marquette Harbor Rotary, as well as the Marquette County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. She is also a member of Connect Marquette and participates on IEDC’s Public Policy Advisory Committee and MEDA’s Advocacy Committee.
Mary is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
Statement of Interest
I am honored to serve as President of the Michigan Economic Developers Association and would welcome the opportunity to continue serving on the Board of Directors.
MEDA has been an important part of my growth as an economic development professional. It brings together people from across the state to learn from one another, build meaningful relationships, and strengthen the voice of our profession. Serving as President has given me an even greater appreciation for the dedication of our members and the value they bring to the organization.
I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue building on that work by supporting strong educational opportunities, meaningful member engagement, partnerships across the state, and the continued growth of MEDA. It would be an honor to continue serving MEDA and its members.
Heidi Pfannes, Business Development Director, Â Miller Davis Construction, and President, Albert Kahn Legacy Foundation
I am a collaborative and strategic leader with extensive experience in business development, community engagement, and board service across Michigan. Throughout my career, I have built strong partnerships with economic development organizations, educational institutions, municipalities, and industry leaders.I bring a proven ability to connect people, advance
shared goals, and support mission-driven growth. My leadership roles with MEDA, school boards, professional associations, and community organizations reflect my commitment to service, governance, and strengthening communities across Michigan.
Statement of Interest
I’d like to serve on the MEDA Board because I care deeply about advancing economic development across Michigan and strengthening the communities we serve. MEDA has been an important place for connection, learning, and collaboration throughout my career, and I would welcome the opportunity to give back in a broader leadership role.
Through my involvement with the Membership and Education Committees, I’ve seen firsthand how MEDA supports professionals, builds relationships, and creates value for communities across the state. I enjoy bringing people together, helping others grow, and working toward shared goals. Serving on the Board would allow me to contribute my experience, perspective, and energy to help support MEDA’s mission and future direction.
Alan M. Weber, EdD, Managing Vice President, Business Development, Detroit Regional Partnership
Alan M. Weber, EdD, is the Managing Vice President of Business Development at the Detroit Regional Partnership (DRP), where he is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and execution of the organization’s business development team and programming. Weber has extensive experience in the leadership and development of international business attraction programs, with a particular focus on European and Asian markets. He travels globally to attract
investment to the Detroit Region, build relationships with international companies and organizations, and present opportunities for companies considering investment in North America. He has also developed and led international business development seminars for global companies exploring entry into the North American market. Throughout his career, Weber has had the pleasure of serving organizations including Oakland County, the City of Novi, and economic development organizations in both Michigan and Florida. Weber is deeply committed to advancing the economic development profession and has had the privilege of serving the Michigan Economic Developers Association in several leadership capacities, including as Treasurer and for two consecutive terms as President. He also serves on several boards, including the British American Business Council. Weber holds degrees from Oakland University and the University of Michigan and earned his Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Oakland University.
Statement of Interest
I would be honored to continue serving on the board for one final term and to support the strong momentum the organization has built over the past several years. Having had the privilege of serving in several leadership roles, I remain deeply committed to the organization, our members, and the continued advancement of the economic development profession. I hope to use this final term to provide continuity, support the organization’s continued growth, and help position the next generation of leadership for success.
John Wolf-Meyer, Manager of Global Business Attraction, Oakland County Economic Development
John Wolf-Meyer, is the Manager of Global Business Attraction for Oakland County Economic Development. In this role, he manages Oakland County’s Business Attraction and Emerging Growth and Innovation (EGI) programs. In addition to his program management responsibilities, he leads business attraction and expansion projects. John prides himself on being an advocate for local and international businesses to help support their growth and prosperity. Prior to joining Oakland County, John worked at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
serving as a Grant Manager and International Trade Development Manager. As Grant Manager, he was responsible for managing State and Federal grants/contracts, developing, and managing business processes for tracking expenditures, monitoring budgets, and ensuring efficient and effective delivery of services. As International Trade Development Manager, he provided export counseling to companies in Southeast Michigan to help grow international sales and facilitate job creation. John serves as a member for the Swedish American Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Automation Alley’s International Business Services Advisory Council, and MEDA’s Board of Directors and Education Committee Co-Chair. John is a NASBITE Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) and Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP). John holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Wayne State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Oakland University.
Statement of Interest
My experience serving on the MEDA Board of Directors since 2020 has truly been an honor and I would like to continue supporting MEDA in this capacity to further its growth and development. In addition to supporting MEDA, serving on the board of directors provides me with the opportunity to advocate for issues and programs that affect economic development throughout the state. With that in mind, I would sincerely appreciate your vote for one final term. Your support would mean a great deal to me, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue serving this organization and our profession. It has truly been a privilege serving and I would be honored to continue that service.