LAURA LEWIS MARCHINO RECEIVES THE ‘CHAIRMAN’S CHOICE AWARD’ FROM THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OF COLORADO
Top people, places, and projects in economic development honored at annual awards dinner & ceremony
PUEBLO, COLORADO (Oct. 20, 2022) – The Economic Development Council of Colorado (EDCC) announced the 2022 EDIE award recipients, recognizing economic development excellence during its annual Drive|Lead|Succeed Conference at Pueblo Convention Center in Pueblo, Colorado last week. The most recognized award in economic development in Colorado, the EDIE represents outstanding achievements by its members, organizations, communities, companies, individuals and legislators for their outstanding achievements in economic development in the State of Colorado. Since 1989, EDCC has celebrated the achievements of over 200 award winners. This year, 11 awardees were recognized.
Laura Lewis Marchino, Executive Director of Region 9 Economic Development District, was selected as this year’s ‘Chairman’s Choice Award’ for her multi-year commitment to EDCC and the exceptional work that she contributed:
- Laura has served six years on EDCC’s Board, five of which on the Executive Committee.
- As Secretary she helped update EDCC’s Bylaw’s.
- Guided EDCC committees through the strategic plan and their key performance indicators.
- Chaired and lead the organization during uncertain times and helped make strategic and difficult decisions coming out of the pandemic.
- Helped set the standard and job description for EDCC’s first Executive Director.
- Created EDCC’s first job annual review for the Executive Director.
- Helped lobby and secure $1.5 million for the state’s first Economic Development Organization (EDO) Capacity Funding. She also assisted in the creation of the grant, application process, and participated on the selection committee.
- Laura assisted a public utility create a first-of-its-kind Economic Development Rate by testifying in front of the PUC several times.
- Helped lobby and secure round two of a $1 million EDO Capacity.
“We celebrate and honor the winners of this year’s EDIE awards. Their dedication and hard work towards the progression of our industry, across the state and beyond, is astounding,” said Stacy Miller, 2022 Board Chair of the EDCC and the Director of Economic Development for the Town of Windsor. “These individuals and organizations’ contributions to our communities will help to advance Colorado’s economy for years to come.”
Pueblo, the Steel City, introduced a new generation of the EDIE award fabricated in steel. The EDIE Award was handcrafted by Johnny’s Boiler Shop & Metal Works which has been a staple of craftsmanship and skill in Pueblo Colorado since 1946. This handcrafted award was made with heart and soul by Pueblo metal workers from American steel. The stainless rod, depicting water, was cut from a legacy drill rig which provided drilling service throughout the Southern Colorado region. The base of the award was handcrafted from a 1940’s Denver and Rio Grande Western Box car floor which carried goods throughout the region.
Each of these winners, gives a glimpse into what our professionals and stakeholders are doing, in keeping Colorado’s economy moving forward. More now than ever, the value and importance of sustainable economic development, needs to be shined upon as we navigate the ever-changing headwinds our economy is facing. EDCC is honored to represent this year’s winners and their invaluable contributions and achievements in keeping Colorado economically viable.