Sarah Alway, Economic Development Coordinator at the Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC), has been named the recipient of the 2024 Dan Webster Young Innovator Scholarship Award. The recognition comes from the Florida High Tech Corridor and the Florida Economic Development Council.
The annual award is presented to an emerging leader in Florida’s economic development sector and includes a $5,000 scholarship for coursework and fees toward achieving the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation.
Alway has worked at Pasco EDC for two years and has received three promotions during that time. She was recognized for her role in redeveloping Pasco EDC’s workforce development website, workforceCONNECT. The updated site features resources such as an Employer Resource Library, Careerseeker Resource Library, and the ConnectOPP tool aimed at improving talent engagement. Alway also plays a key role in programs focused on retaining and attracting businesses to Pasco County.
“Sarah consistently demonstrates innovation in economic development, notably spearheading the successful redevelopment of Pasco EDC’s workforce development website, workforceCONNECT, which underscores her forward-thinking approach and her ability to leverage technology to achieve goals,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President & CEO. “Her leadership and collaborative skills have cultivated strong relationships within our industry, enhancing her contributions to economic and workforce development, and embodying the spirit of innovation.”
Alway expressed her motivation for pursuing professional certification: “Since embarking on my journey in economic development, my ambition has been clear – to become a Certified Economic Developer and effect positive change while breaking barriers as one of the few female business leaders of an economic development organization in Florida.”
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from West Virginia University with minors in Leadership Studies and English, as well as a Master of Science in Economic Development from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Florida High Tech Corridor CEO Paul Sohl presented Alway with the award during the Florida Economic Development Council’s Diamond Jubilee Awards Dinner at its annual conference. The scholarship was established in 2015 to honor Congressman Daniel Webster for his commitment to economic development efforts in Florida.
“This scholarship represents our belief in the potential of rising talents like Sarah, who demonstrate the innovation and leadership essential to Florida’s continued economic growth,” said Sohl. “The Corridor is proud to invest in the next generation of our state’s economic development workforce and empower them to excel in a rigorous process without financial barriers.”
Beth Cicchetti, Executive Director of the Florida Economic Development Council, added: “As an emerging leader in the field of economic development, Sarah embodies the drive, creativity, and passion that are crucial for fostering innovation and growth within our communities. Her achievements set a sterling example for the state’s emerging leaders in economic development.”
Alway joins previous recipients from organizations across Florida including universities, local governments, utilities companies, and regional alliances.
Pasco EDC focuses on supporting business growth by offering programs designed for companies looking to start or expand operations in North Tampa Bay. Since 1987 it has partnered with corporate and public investors committed to promoting economic vitality throughout Pasco County through various initiatives described on its website www.pascoedc.com.
The Florida Economic Development Council provides education, advocacy work, policy guidance, networking opportunities for stakeholders statewide as detailed at FEDC’s main contact channels via phone or email.
The Florida High Tech Corridor works with three research universities—University of Central Florida, University of South Florida and University of Florida—to foster high-tech growth across 23 counties by connecting entrepreneurs with resources such as research grants or business coaching services. More information can be found at floridahightech.com.
