Lawrence McKinney

Lawrence McKinney has extensive experience in economic development and nonprofit management. Lawrence currently serves as President and CEO of the Norman Economic Development Coalition, where they are dedicated to creating and retaining jobs in Norman. Prior to this, they worked as a Principal at Economic Strategy Professionals, providing services such as feasibility analysis, fundraising, and strategic planning for various clients. Lawrence was also a Principal at Convergent Nonprofit Solutions, a national nonprofit consulting and fundraising campaign management firm. Throughout their career, McKinney has held CEO positions at various chambers of commerce and economic development organizations, including the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce and EDO, the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce and EDO, the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce and EDO, the Meriwether County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority, the RICHMOND HILL-BRYAN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, Tourism Bureau and Development Authority, and the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority. McKinney's expertise lies in helping organizations achieve greater fundraising results and promoting economic growth in various communities.

Lawrence McKinney, CEcD, CCE, IOM, holds a Masters of International Business degree from Georgia State University's J. Mack Robinson College of Business. Lawrence specialized in Marketing and E-commerce during their studies from 1998 to 2000. Prior to that, they completed their undergraduate education at Augusta University, earning a BBA degree with a focus on Economics and Finance between 1982 and 1987.

In addition to their academic achievements, McKinney has obtained several certifications in their field. In 1996, they became a Certified Economic Developer through the International Economic Development Council. Lawrence later obtained the Certified Chamber Executive designation from The American Chamber of Commerce Executives Association in September 2002. McKinney also received the prestigious IOM (Institute for Organization Management) certification from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in June 1992. More recently, in July 2012, they achieved the Florida Certified Chamber Executive status from the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals (FACP).