A seminar for local leaders interested in economic development will introduce a new book on the topic by University of Toledo President Emeritus Dr. Daniel M. Johnson.

The half-day seminar, Leading Economic Development: A Seminar for Local Public Officials and Civic Leaders, will be Friday, March 27, from 2-4:30 p.m. at the Radisson Hotel on UT’s Health Science Campus. The event is sponsored by the UT Urban Affairs Center and the UT Press.

Johnson, who authored the new book Leading Economic Development: A Toolkit for Public Officials and Civic Leaders published by the UT Press, is a keynote speaker at the seminar.

Former Ohio Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher also will deliver a keynote addresses and the seminar will include a panel discussion featuring Paula Hicks-Hudson, mayor of Toledo; Joe Napoli, general manager of the Toledo Mud Hens; Jeffrey Potter, president of Potter Technologies and host of a radio show on Toledo business; and Dr. Frank Calzonetti, UT’s vice president for governmental relations.

Following the seminar Johnson will host a free reception and book signing from 4:30 to 6 p.m. in the Faculty Club at the Radisson.

Johnson’s book is a primer for how those new to the field, or who want to become more successful, can lead economic development in their communities. Basing his work on the best minds and current scholarship in economic development, Johnson presents concepts in an approachable way that will be helpful to the novice and the experienced professional.

The book draws on his experience not only as a president of UT where he made economic development part of the University’s mission, but also on work he has done throughout his career in Illinois, Virginia, Texas, Alaska and Dubai.

Johnson has served in higher education leadership for more than 30 years, during which he fostered collaborations and partnerships between his universities, government and industry.

“Dan Johnson reinforces in this book that economic development is much more than financial incentives. It is about connecting your distinctive assets of people, place and opportunity,” Fisher said.

The book, which includes a foreword by Fisher, features chapters on economic clusters, globalization, branding, workforce development, the role of universities in economic development, private sector economic development and future trends in the field.

For more information, or to register for the seminar, visit uac.utoledo.edu or call 419.530.2170. The cost of the seminar is $25, which includes a copy of Johnson’s book. The deadline to register is Monday, March 23.

Johnson’s book is available for purchase on utoledopress.com.

Tags: College of Business and Innovation