The director of Leon County's Office of Economic Vitality has received national honors. Cristina Paredes was recognized by the professional organization Consultants Connect, which helps link economic developers and those involved with expanding or relocating businesses.
Paredes admitted she was in a bit of a shock when she learned she was among this year's winners.
"Consultants Connect, who puts together the list every year, reached out to me about a week ago to let me know that I had been nominated and selected as one of the top-50 economic developers in the nation."
She cited several of her office's initiatives as the reason for the award.
"The launch of the Magnetic Capital of the World campaign, our focus on minority women and small businesses and economic inclusion, and the efforts that we've done to help support our local businesses through the Love Your Local campaign. The guidance of the County and the City commissions and our business community. I think it's truly reflective of how much we've come together to move the economic needle forward for our community."
And Paredes indicated the honor would be far more valuable than simply an adornment on her office wall.
"I'm hoping we can translate this into some good business development activity and continue to raise the profile of Tallahassee being open for business and a great place to live, work and visit."
