FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Linzy Browne, Stafford County Department of Economic Development & Tourism
Phone: 540-658-8681
Stafford, VA – May 19, 2026 — Jon Lindsley and Savannah Wimbush, Business Development Managers with the Stafford County Department of Economic Development & Tourism, have graduated from the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute (OU EDI) during the Spring 2026 session.
OU EDI is an intensive 117-hour certificate program that provides a broad spectrum of advanced education for economic development professionals. Fully accredited by the International Economic Development Council, the institute has trained more than 6,000 professionals worldwide and is widely recognized as the premier training program in the field.
Jon and Savannah join a global network of economic development leaders who have completed the program, equipping them with innovative tools, strategies, and insights to better serve and strengthen their communities.
Jon Lindsley contributes a globally informed perspective shaped by his work designing and directing economic development initiatives funded by USAID across the Middle East and North Africa, as well as professional experience living and working in Turkey and the Palestinian territories. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history from St. Olaf College and a master’s degree in international affairs and development from George Washington University.
His diverse experience supports Stafford’s efforts to attract, grow, and sustain a dynamic business community, blending global insight with local impact.
A native of Virginia’s Northern Neck, Savannah Wimbush brings a strong background in organizational leadership, local government operations, and small business support. She holds a Master of Business Administration with a specialization in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication from Bluefield University. Prior to her current role, she worked with the City of Bluefield, West Virginia’s Economic Development Authority and later with Stafford County’s Department of Development Services, where she oversaw key administrative and operational functions.
Savannah is particularly passionate about guiding entrepreneurs through the “idea to open sign pipeline,” helping transform concepts into thriving businesses. Her dedication to community advocacy and natural resource conservation reflects her deep connection to the region she calls home.
“OU Economic Development Institute is the premier organization dedicated to training economic development professionals,” said Courtney Dunbar, CEcD and Past Dean for OU EDI. “These graduates have invested in improving their professional capabilities to support their local communities. Congratulations to all.”
By completing OU EDI, Jon and Savannah further strengthen Stafford County’s ability to support business growth, foster entrepreneurship, and advance economic vitality throughout the region.
For more information about the OU Economic Development Institute, its courses, and internationally recognized certificate program, please contact 405-325-3136 or [email protected].
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About Stafford County Department of Economic Development & Tourism | Stafford EDA
The Stafford County Department of Economic Development & Tourism is the sales and customer service arm for Stafford County, Virginia, committed to advancing expansion and investment for the community. As the official economic development organization of Stafford County, our mission is to promote, solicit and encourage business growth through marketing and media services that enhance economic activity and quality of life within the Stafford region. Stafford County is located halfway between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. In partnership with the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Stafford County Department of Economic Development and the EDA has helped finance and support business growth in Stafford since the EDA’s inception in 1970. In addition to business loan programs, in recent years, the EDA has helped develop a number of vacant and underused properties in Stafford. For more information on Stafford’s Economic Development & Tourism and the Stafford EDA, visit www.GoStaffordVA.com and www.StaffordEDA.com, and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, or get connected through the monthly business newsletter.