Cornerstone Alliance’s Haan Earns CEcD Credentials
Cornerstone Alliance’s Haan Earns International Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) Credential
Cornerstone Alliance is proud to announce that Andrew Haan, Senior Vice President of Community Development & Growth, has earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
Joining more than 1,250 active CEcDs worldwide, Haan’s achievement demonstrates his mastery of core economic development competencies and commitment to applying best practices that support sustainable growth and investment in Berrien County and the surrounding region.
The internationally recognized designation also enhances Cornerstone Alliance’s ability to deliver meaningful, long-term impact for the region.
“Andrew’s achievement of the Certified Economic Developer accreditation reflects not only his dedication and expertise, but the high standard of excellence we set at Cornerstone Alliance. We are incredibly proud of his commitment to advancing his craft. His accomplishment is also a win for our entire organization, showcasing the talented, credentialed, and highly skilled team driving economic growth throughout Berrien County,” said Marla Schneider, Cornerstone Alliance President & CEO.
Certified Economic Developers operate as highly skilled economic development professionals, collaborate with public officials, business leaders, and community members to establish astute leadership, and serve as a driving force in the economic development landscape. Their commitment to excellence translates into a profound impact on well-being, elevating the quality of life and unlocking a myriad of opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities alike.
“Becoming a Certified Economic Developer isn’t just a credential, it’s a career-defining milestone that demonstrates a professional’s dedication to elevating their expertise and their community impact,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “Certified Economic Developers possess deep technical knowledge and bring trust and credibility to stakeholders, investors, and peers. We are thrilled to celebrate Andrew Haan on achieving this accomplishment and joining our network of professionals driving economic progress around the world.”
Haan has dedicated his career to advancing community and economic development initiatives across Southwest Michigan. In his role at Cornerstone Alliance, he leads municipal partnerships, guides project development, and supports strategies that foster investment and growth throughout Berrien County.
“It’s an honor to join the ranks of certified economic developers. Having the chance to come alongside and learn from industry-leading practitioners that are transforming their communities has been energizing and rewarding,” Haan said.
“Economic development is a collective endeavor. I look forward to applying the transformative, data-driven strategies advanced by the IEDC in continued collaboration with our communities, partners, and investors as we work together to grow and strengthen Southwest Michigan,” he added.
Prior to joining Cornerstone Alliance, Haan led downtown economic development efforts in Muskegon and Kalamazoo, and served as Associate Director of the Governor’s Office of Urban and Metropolitan Initiatives, building a track record of results in revitalization and transformational infrastructure projects, organizational restructuring, and business support. Additionally, Haan is a Certified Leader in Place Management through the International Downtown Association.
For more information about Andrew Haan, his recent CEcD designation, or Cornerstone Alliance, visit www.cstonealliance.org
About Cornerstone Alliance
Cornerstone Alliance is Berrien County’s premier economic development organization, dedicated to driving growth, investment, and job creation throughout the region. With a focus on supporting businesses at every stage, Cornerstone Alliance serves as a catalyst for sustainable economic development in Southwest Michigan.
About the International Economic Development Council
The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is a non-profit, non-partisan membership organization serving economic developers. With thousands of members, IEDC is the largest organization of its kind. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, IEDC’s members engage in a full range of economic development practices. Given the breadth of economic development work, our members are employed in various settings, including local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions. When we succeed, our members create high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions. Learn more at https://www.iedconline.org/.
