ITHACA, N.Y. — Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) describes its next president as someone who brings more than three decades of economic-development experience across the U.S. and a “proven track record of attracting business investment” to the role. IAED on Nov. 4 announced it has selected Kurt Foreman to lead the organization beginning in January […]
ITHACA, N.Y. — Ithaca Area Economic Development (IAED) describes its next president as someone who brings more than three decades of economic-development experience across the U.S. and a “proven track record of attracting business investment” to the role.
IAED on Nov. 4 announced it has selected Kurt Foreman to lead the organization beginning in January 2026. Foreman has been leading the Delaware Prosperity Partnership (DPP) as president and CEO since 2018.
Foreman assumes the role that Heather McDaniel previously held before she stepped down from IAED on March 31. McDaniel is now serving as chief economic-development officer at the Center for Economic Growth in Albany.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kurt to Ithaca, Tompkins County, and IAED,” Jodi Lee Denman, chair of the IAED board of directors, said in the announcement. “His proven experience and leadership ability will help guide our organization as we continue to evolve and bolster the local economy.”
The IAED chose Foreman after a national search led by Jorgenson Pace — a search firm specializing in economic development, community development, and nonprofit organizations — and guided by a search committee chaired by former board member Greg Hartz, the IAED said.
“After a comprehensive search process, Foreman emerged as the ideal candidate to lead IAED into its next chapter,” Hartz said. “His strategic vision, collaborative approach, and proven ability to deliver results make him perfectly suited to advance economic development in Tompkins County and regionally.”
Under Foreman’s leadership, DPP attracted more than $3.5 billion in capital investment and supported the creation or retention of 11,000 jobs while strengthening Delaware’s business community and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
His experience also includes economic-development leadership roles in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and the Washington D.C. metro area. Foreman is also a “proficient” site selector, well versed in supporting companies with their location and expansion decisions, the IAED said. He was also formerly an executive recruiter with a global search firm supporting senior-level placements across industries.
“I’m excited to relocate to Tompkins County and join the highly competent IAED team,” Foreman said. “I look forward to supporting this vibrant community by helping businesses grow, thrive, and create quality employment through smart partnerships and innovative solutions. There’s so much energy here, and I can’t wait to get started.”
A graduate of Franklin & Marshall College, Foreman earned his master’s degree in business from Wake Forest University.
