Staff and Board

Jeff Hendry
Executive Director
(850) 443-7103
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Diane Scholz
Director, Rural Economic Development Services
(850) 728-5191
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Jennifer Goff Daniels, Chair
Columbia County Economic Development Department

Prior to becoming Columbia County’s Economic Development Director, Jennifer Goff Daniels served for 18 years in leadership development and training in the call center industry.  She joined the Economic Development Department under the Board of County Commissioners in 2019 as an apprentice to the former director. The daughter of a local farmer, Daniels now focuses on bringing career-centric, high wage, life changing jobs to Columbia County.

Lawrence “Larry” Harvey, Vice Chair
Commissioner, Putnam County BOCC

A member of the Putnam County Board of County Commissioners in District 4 since 2014, Lawrence “Larry” Harvey has lived in the county for most of his life, residing in Interlachen for the past 40 years. After graduating from Palatka High School and attending St. Johns River Community College, he received his insurance designation from the University of Florida and served as President and CEO of Harvey Insurance Agency from 1991 to 2014. In addition to his service as County Commissioner, Harvey has served on a number of different boards and councils, including The Florida Association of Counties and the Putnam County Cattlemen’s Association.

Karen VanAernam, Secretary/Treasurer
Economic Development Liaison, Dixie County

An Economic Development Liaison for Dixie County, Karen VanAernam also serves as director for a local non-profit organization. A successful entrepreneur, she also owns and operates a women’s fitness center, and she and her husband own a local timber and sod company. VanAernam earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida and a master’s degree in educational leadership, and she is a certified personal trainer.

Jimmy Norris-Immediate Past Chair
Director, Suwannee County Economic Development

The Director of Economic Development and Tourism for Suwannee County, Jimmy Norris also serves as Chairman of the North Florida Economic Development Partnership Board and represents NFEDP as a board member of the Florida Rural Economic Development Association.  Additionally, he serves as the Regional Director for North Central Florida on the Florida Economic Development Council.  In the past he has served as the Executive Director of the Suwannee County Chamber of Commerce and President of the Suwannee County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. A state-certified building contractor, Norris has also served as President of the Suwannee Valley Builders Association, and has served on numerous boards including RiverOak Technical College and the Suwannee County Development Authority.

James Bennett
Commissioner, Baker County BOCC

A member of Baker County Board of Commissioners, James Bennett is also Chief Operating Officer for JAXPORT, the Jacksonville Port Authority, overseeing the port’s three operational divisions. He also oversees the implementation of a capital growth grogram in excess of $250 million annually. He joined JAXPORT in 2017 as Senior Director of Engineering and Construction, and in that role he managed the completion of JAXPORT’s major growth initiatives. An Accredited Maritime Port Executive (AMPE) and licensed professional engineer, Bennett has extensive experience in senior transportation positions in both private and public sectors, including over 20 years with the Florida Department of Transportation.

Diane Andrews
Commissioner, Bradford County BOCC

Diane Andrews has served for two terms as County Commissioner of District 5 in Bradford County. Prior to that she served 33 years with the Florida Department of Corrections, retiring as the Warden at Union Correctional Institution. Andrews is actively involved in creating a stronger economy and community in Bradford County.

Amber Shepherd
Executive Director, Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation (NEFEDC) -Bradford County

Amber Shepherd is the Strategic Alliances Business Partner at Northeast Florida Economic Development Corporation (NEFEDC). As a local business owner and global consultant with a dynamic career in global B2B/B2C business development, customer service, and operations across multiple industries, she brings a wealth of knowledge and innovative strategies to her role. Having nearly 15 years’ experience in workforce development, Amber's roles in Career Services showcased her extensive expertise in aligning educational outcomes with labor market needs. Her experience enhances her ability to support workforce initiatives at NEFEDC, promoting regional economic growth through skilled workforce development. As a global executive management consultant, she drives high-impact marketing strategies, fostering growth through data-driven insights. Amber's ability to turn complex business challenges into strategic opportunities significantly enhances her role at NEFEDC, fostering economic development and community engagement while leading efforts to connect the corporation with key initiatives both nationally and internationally.

Rocky Ford
Commissioner, Columbia County BOCC

A lifelong member of District 2 and a graduate of Columbia High School, Rocky Ford is the owner and operator of a cattle farm in Fort White. He is an enthusiastic supporter of youth programs including the annual FFA Livestock Show and has sponsored a number of District 2’s sports teams in programs including volleyball, football, softball and baseball.

Mark Hatch
Commissioner, Dixie County BOCC

A lifelong Dixie County resident, Mark Hatch has served as county commissioner of District 3 in Dixie County since 2016.  He is an alumnus of Dixie County High School and continues to support the school through volunteer activities with the Quarterback Club.  Over the years, he has also worked closely with county and coastal communities in providing hurricane assistance.

Tommy Langford
Commissioner, Gilchrist County BOCC

A lifelong resident of Gilchrist County, small business owner Tommy Langford has served multiple terms on the Gilchrist County Board of Commissioners, including one 10-year term and a subsequent term in 2022 serving District 4. Langford has also served on other boards including the local chamber of commerce and the Suwannee River Economic Council, Inc, and he has played an important role in the recruitment and expansion of businesses including Best Western hotels, Marathon and Dollar General. He is also active in the community.

Donna Creamer
Assistant County Administrator, Gilchrist County BOCC

Donna Creamer serves as Executive Economic and Tourist Development Director (TDC) for Gilchrist County. A native Floridian, she graduated from Lake City Community College with an AS degree in business management as well a general AA degree; she also holds a marketing degree from the Southeast Tourism Society. She applies this background to influence positive economic growth while preserving the region’s natural heritage.

Richie McCoy
Commissioner, Hamilton County BOCC

Commissioner Richie McCoy is a lifelong resident of Hamilton County and a proud graduate of Hamilton County High School. Deeply rooted in the community he serves, Commissioner McCoy is currently in his second term on the Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners, where he has also served as Chairman of the Board for the past two consecutive years. In addition, he serves as Chairman of the Hamilton County Tourism Board, helping guide the county’s growth through strategic tourism and economic development initiatives.

Throughout his tenure, Commissioner McCoy has worked tirelessly to strengthen relationships with state legislators and regional partners, resulting in major successes for the county. Through these efforts, he has helped secure approximately $3.4 million in state appropriations, funding critical projects that support infrastructure, healthcare, tourism, and economic revitalization. Under his leadership, Hamilton County has celebrated important milestones, including new developments along the I-75 corridor and the establishment of a new healthcare facility in Jasper, both of which positively impact residents and future growth.

Outside of public service, Commissioner McCoy is a self-employed insurance agent, a role that provides him with flexibility to remain actively engaged in county leadership. He strongly values the importance of family, community relationships, and local tradition, and he approaches public service with the same dedication and care.

Commissioner McCoy remains focused on fostering economic growth, enhancing local amenities, strengthening healthcare access, and ensuring long-term prosperity for Hamilton County. He is committed to building on the strong foundation already in place and believes that, together, the community can continue moving Hamilton County forward.

Chuck Burnett
Executive Director, Hamilton County BOCC

Chuck Burnett is the Economic Developer for Hamilton County, Florida, driven by a passion for revitalization and strategic, sustainable growth. He began his career with the Hamilton County Parks Department in 2006 and was named Parks Director in 2010. After more than five years supporting the Board of County Commissioners with development goals, branding, marketing, and community networking, Chuck was officially hired as the county’s Development Director in July 2025. His work focuses on strengthening Hamilton County’s economic future, enhancing quality of life, and positioning the community for long-term success.

Shannon Metty
County Coordinator, Jefferson County

Mason Byrd
Commissioner, Lafayette County BOCC

Chelsea Morgan
Economic Development Liaison, Lafayette County

Chelsea Morgan is a proud North Florida native with a heart for community growth and connection. Born and raised in Mayo, she’s spent the past six years working as a Real Estate agent, helping families and businesses find their place in the region. Before real estate, Chelsea dedicated 15 years to early childhood education—an experience that deepened her commitment to building strong foundations, both for people and for the communities they call home. Her passion for economic development comes naturally, as she believes real estate and local growth go hand in hand in shaping a vibrant future for North Florida.

Desiree Mills
Commissioner, Lafayette County BOCC

Mary-Ellen Harper
County Manager, Levy County

Donne Waldrep
Commissioner, Madison County BOCC

Sherilyn Pickels
County Manager, Madison County BOCC

Sherri Mitchell
Executive Director, Nassau County Economic Development Board

Sherri joined the Nassau County Economic Development Board in August of 2017 to spearhead the organization’s community workforce development initiatives. In November 2019 she has stepped in as Interim Executive Director and is currently working on establishing a sustainable, three-to-five-year strategic plan.

Her accomplishments include:

• Assembled a Community Think Tank comprised of human resource professionals, business owners, and decision-makers who share and formulate workforce best practices.
• Achieved Society for Human Resource Management Recertification allowing the NCEDB to serve as a facilitator for human resource training in Nassau County. Under Sherri’s leadership, industry experts hosted quarterly seminars and workshops for the Nassau County business community.
• Collaborated with Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) Nassau Campus to provide OSHA classes meeting the needs of our business community
• Formed the Nassau Industry Network to serve as a voice for current and future manufacturers in Nassau County, Florida. The Nassau Industry Network aims to elevate the role of manufacturing within the community, raise awareness of current and future jobs and skills, and develop the Women in Manufacturing initiatives. As a result, Nassau County made proclamations declaring October as Manufacturing Month.
• Conducted Hurricane Preparedness Workshops bringing experts from emergency management, insurance, utilities and law enforcement together to provide strategic and tactical resources and action plans to business owners and residents.
• Cultivated the Entrepreneur Program with the Nassau County School District to partner entrepreneurial-minded students with local business owners.
• Lead National Manufacturing Day activities including industry-related tours for students and teachers of Nassau County.

Prior to joining the Nassau County Economic Development Board, Sherri played a key role in supporting Jacksonville, Florida’s manufacturing community as the Director of Finance and Workforce Development of the First Coast Manufacturing Association.

Laura Pavlus
President, Putnam County Chamber of Commerce

Laura Pavlus serves as the President of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, a role she assumed in August 2024. With a deep passion for fostering business success and community development, Laura has brought extensive experience and dynamic leadership to her position.  A proud daughter of two small business owners, Laura has always had a heart for helping entrepreneurs and small businesses thrive.

Before joining the Chamber, Laura was the Senior Vice President of the Clay County Economic Development Corporation (Clay EDC). During her nine-year tenure, she tripled the organizational budget and played a pivotal role in securing over $1 billion in capital investment projects for the community. Her innovative approach and commitment to economic growth left a lasting mark.

Laura’s professional career also includes experience in business development, marketing, and construction administration for architecture firms. Earlier in her career, while working in the membership department of Sea Pines Country Club in Hilton Head Island, SC, she first learned the principles of non-profit management.

Laura was also shaped by her 17 years as a military wife; living in Washington, South Carolina, Virginia, California, and now Florida. Living in diverse regions across the nation has provided Laura with unique insights and a broader perspective on the competitive environment of the national landscape.

In addition to her professional commitments, Laura serves on the United Way Board for St. Johns and Putnam Counties, reflecting her dedication to community development and support. Other past volunteer roles include the Clay County Education Foundation, Mercy Support Services, 100 Women Who Care, and the Clay County Chamber of Commerce.

Laura completed her bachelor’s degree in organizational management at St. Johns River State College.  She has three sons, two who are actively involved in football, weightlifting, and track. Outside of her professional and family life, Laura enjoys being on the water, a passion rooted in her time as a high school swimmer. She is also an avid reader and traveler, finding inspiration in exploring new places.

Don Hale
Commissioner, Suwannee County BOCC

Thomas Demps, Sr.
Commissioner, Taylor County BOCC

A lifelong resident of Perry, Thomas Demps, Sr., serves as a member of the Taylor County Board of Commissioners and is a past mayor and member of the Perry City Council. Currently he serves as Taylor County’s designated appointee to the North Central Florida Regional Planning Council (NCFRPC); as Chairman of the NCFRPC Finance Committee and as Secretary-Treasurer of the Council’s Executive Committee. He is a representative of the Suwannee River Task Force and is a member of the Taylor County Chamber of Commerce. His past service has also included membership in the Taylor County Development Authority.

Robert Cate
Taylor County Development Authority

Prior to assuming the role as interim director of the Taylor County Development Authority, Bob Cate worked in the paper industry for 44 years serving in serving in roles of increasing responsibility in both mill and corporate manufacturing leadership, and in global environmental, sustainability and capital project assignments.

Melissa McNeal
Commissioner, Union County BOCC

Jimmy Williams
County Manager, Union County

Danny Collins
Director of Government & Community Relations, Duke Energy Florida

As the Director of Government & Community Relations for Duke Energy Florida, Danny Collins works with local governments and nonprofit organizations across North Florida. He is a native of Monticello and a graduate of the University of Florida.

Jim Bush
External Affairs Manager, Florida Power and Light

Jim Bush is FPL’s external affairs manager. He is responsible for the company’s external and governmental activities in Putnam County.

Jim graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point. He also earned an MBA from the University of Florida. 

Jim joined FPL in 1998 and has served in a variety of positions within the Power Delivery, Customer Service, and External Affairs business units. Prior to his current role, Jim was regional manager for major accounts where he had statewide responsibilities for overseeing the account management activities for FPL’s largest commercial and industrial accounts. From 2007 to 2012, Jim was an operations manager responsible for the North and Central Florida areas. Prior to joining FPL, Jim proudly served for five years as an Infantry Officer in the United States Army.

Jim values community service and is honored to serve on several boards in Northeast Florida. He has also volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America and as a youth sports coach for many years. 

Patrick Wnek
Executive Director, North East Florida Educational Consortium (NEFEC)

Patrick Wnek serves as the Executive Director of the North East Florida Educational Consortium (NEFEC), which supports 13 rural school districts along with the PK Yonge Developmental Research School at the University of Florida and the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. He is actively involved with Executive Committee of the North Florida Economic Development Partnership and serves on the advisory board for the Florida Organization of Instructional Leaders. Wnek holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Florida and is deeply involved in collaborating with educational and business partners to expand educational and career opportunities for students.

Katelyn Barrington
Manager, External Affairs Suwannee Valley Electric Cooperative

Melissa Terbrueggen
VP, Economic Development and Business Services, CareerSource Northeast Florida

Melissa Terbrueggen serves as Vice President of Economic Development and Communications at CareerSource Northeast Florida, where she has driven workforce development strategies since 1997. She connects businesses with qualified talent, collaborates with employers to understand their workforce needs, and facilitates talent matching and training opportunities that align with industry demands. Known for her collaborative leadership and results-driven approach, Melissa provides strategic labor market insights to companies exploring relocation or expansion opportunities in the region. She has been instrumental in launching employer-focused programs that support talent development, business retention, and regional competitiveness while building strong partnerships with employers, educators, and community stakeholders.

Doug Brown
Executive Director, Madison County Development Council

Executive Director of the Madison County Development Council, Doug Brown also serves on a number of agency boards of directors throughout North Florida. He has lived in Madison County since 1986 and served as a counselor, instructor and administrator at North Florida College for 26 years, and as the superintendent of the Madison County School District from 2012 through 2016. A native of Oklahoma, Brown holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.

Craig Callahan
Director of Business Development, ARCO Design/Build

As Director of Business Development for ARCO Design/Build, Craig Callahan is tasked with the primary responsibility to identify prospective clients and create lasting relationships while assisting in the construction process to assure superior customer experience. He is also responsible for growing the brand throughout the Southeast. Callahan has over six years’ experience in the construction industry specializing in sales and business development and holds a bachelor’s degree in business from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and a master’s in business administration from University of South Florida-St. Petersburg.

Laura DiBella

Florida’s first female Secretary of Commerce, Laura DiBella has also served as President of Business Development at FloridaCommerce; President/CEO at Enterprise Florida; President of the Florida Opportunity Fund (Florida’s Venture Capital arm); Executive Director of Florida Harbor Pilots Association; Port Director of Port of Fernandina Ocean Highway and Port Authority; and Executive Director of Nassau County Economic Development Board. She has also been a Florida licensed real estate broker for over 20 years. Other service includes Immediate Past Chair of the Aerospace Alliance; Vice Chair of the FDOT Freight Advisory Committee; former Vice Chair of Florida State College at Jacksonville District Board of Trustees; and former Vice Chair of Florida Ocean Alliance Board of Directors.

Sara K. Maxfield, CEcD, EDFP
Economic Development Director

Sara Maxfield is a seasoned economic development leader with over 15 years of experience driving strategic growth, fostering public-private partnerships, and championing community vitality across urban and rural landscapes. She began her career with the Athens County Economic Development Council in Ohio, where she played a foundational role from its inception in 2008, rising to Executive Director in 2012. Under her leadership, the Council expanded its programming, secured critical federal and state funding, and cultivated enduring industry partnerships. She also served as Director of the Athens County Port Authority, guiding infrastructure and investment initiatives through 2020.

Sara’s impact continued in Palm Beach County Florida, where she led economic development efforts for the cities of Delray Beach and Riviera Beach, and most recently St. Johns County. Her work focused on business attraction, workforce development, and tourism strategy, and she contributed to statewide policy through her service on the Florida League of Cities Economic Development and Land Use Committee.

A proud graduate of Ohio University, Sara earned her BS in Health Sciences and Business cum laude and later taught in the university’s School of Health Sciences. She holds both the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) and Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP) designations and has pursued advanced training through the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute, Georgia Tech, and the National Development Council.

Sara is an active member of the International Economic Development Council, Florida Economic Development Council, and National Rural Economic Development Association. Her past board service includes the Ohio Economic Development Association, Area 14 Workforce Development Board, Ohio Southeast, and the Eastern Ohio Development Alliance, where she served as Vice President.

Now residing in St. Johns County with her husband, Sara brings a deep commitment to place-based development, collaborative leadership, and community engagement. She’s excited to continue serving Florida’s diverse communities with vision, integrity, and heart.