Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced the appointments of Mayor Robert Jones, Richard Blouse, and George Jackson Jr., as members of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Executive Committee. The members of the committee are appointed pursuant to a recently approved amendment to the interlocal agreement between the Michigan Strategic Fund and the 60 local economic development corporations creating the MEDC.

“These three successful businessmen will be a tremendous addition to the committee and will provide great insight to ways that we can continue to keep and attract jobs in Michigan,” Granholm said. “These men bring a combination of leadership, vision, and a strong work ethic that will create results for the business community and the citizens of Michigan.”

Richard Blouse, of Birmingham, has served as President and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber for eight years. He has transformed the organization into a regional, national, and international force and the largest chamber of commerce in the country. Under his leadership, the chamber is now in partnership with six diverse business organizations throughout the region working together to help businesses succeed through expanded services and opportunities.

George Jackson Jr., of Southfield, currently serves as the President and CEO of Detroit Economic Growth Corporation (DEGC) and Chairman of the Board of the NextEnergy Corporation. DEGC is a nonprofit corporation devoted to supporting Detroit’s economic development projects and initiatives by providing technical, financial, and development assistance to the city and the business community.

Robert Jones was elected Mayor of Kalamazoo in November 1997 and currently is serving his third term. He is fostering economic development in his city by building and maintaining strong neighborhoods for the citizens and businesses of Kalamazoo. Mayor Jones served nine years, including three as chairman, on the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, a partnership between the state and local communities, promotes smart economic growth by developing strategies and providing services to create and retain good jobs and high quality of life.

The MEDC Executive Committee is a 20-member body that sets the strategic direction of the corporation. The board is comprised of business, university, and economic development leaders from across Michigan representing both political parties.