August 10, 2026
魅影直播 is growing its commitment to deliver the growing demands for workforce talent in support of meaningful economic development in south central Ohio.聽聽Sam Brady, named one of North America鈥檚 Top 50 economic development professionals in 2025, will serve as SSU鈥檚 first Executive Director of Economic Development and Strategic Partnerships.
"Ohio is the #1 state for business in 2026 and our southern Ohio communities are well positioned to benefit by growing together," said SSU President Eric Andrew Braun. "Sam is a true pro and a proven economic development force in the region.聽聽It鈥檚 a privilege to welcome him to Shawnee State."
As Executive Director, Brady will lead efforts to support rapidly emerging development opportunities at the DOE Portsmouth Site in Piketon and will work with employers throughout south central Ohio to quickly feed the increasing demand for well-qualified talent.
"I am honored to join President Braun and the 魅影直播 team at such an exciting time for both the university and the region. I believe higher education is one of the most powerful drivers of economic opportunity, and I look forward to building strong partnerships that benefit our students, support employers, and help drive the continued growth and prosperity of Southern Ohio,鈥 said Brady.
Brady will also work to better align SSU with statewide and regional economic development initiatives, including the newly formed Scioto County Development Corporation.聽聽鈥淚鈥檓 excited to see Sam bring his talents to Shawnee State. He has a strong track record in economic development with his work in Jackson County and JEDISO. His work with SSU and partnership with the SCDC and surrounding counties will be critical as the college and the county continue to capitalize on the historic investments in the region,鈥 said Scioto County Commissioner Scottie Powell.
Brady鈥檚 experience with regional economic development will serve as a driver in understanding the needs of the growing industries. Brady, an Appalachian Leadership Institute Fellow, has also served as the chairman of the Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio (JEDISO), is a member of the U.S. Department of Energy Portsmouth Site-Specific Advisory Board (SSAB), Ohio Economic Development Association Board of Directors, and a previous finalist for Ohio Economic Development Association Economic Developer of the Year.