Visit Greenville, NC (Greenville-Pitt County Convention & Visitors Bureau) is pleased to announce its President & CEO, Andrew Schmidt, was recently appointed to the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) Board of Directors by Governor Roy Cooper in November 2024.
“I was both honored and excited to be appointed by Governor Cooper to serve on the Economic Development Partnership Board of North Carolina,” stated Andrew Schmidt, President & CEO of Visit Greenville, NC. “I look forward to being an active member of the board, and supporting the goals and objectives of the organization for the benefit and growth of our state and citizens.”
The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that oversees the state’s efforts in business and job recruitment and retention, and international trade, as well as tourism, film, and sports development. Emphasizing customer service, the EDPNC fosters collaboration between businesses and government, local and regional economic development organizations, other businesses, community leadership, and the state’s universities and community colleges. The partnership also provides access to research, innovative technology and research, and a robust analysis of facilities and sites available for relocation.
“We are pleased to welcome Andrew to the EDPNC board,” stated Gene McLaurin, EDPNC Board Chair. “His knowledge and experience will help us continue the positive momentum we have promoting economic growth and progress in our entire state.”
The EDPNC board is made up of 17 members from across the state who are appointed by either the Governor, Speaker of the House, or Senate President Pro Tem. Schmidt is filling the board position requirement of a member with expertise in tourism, and was recommended for this position by the North Carolina Travel Industry Association (NCTIA). Schmidt served as NCTIA President from 2021-2023, and is currently serving on the board as Immediate Past President through the 2025 calendar year.
“Andrew has been a valuable and longstanding partner to the efforts of the EDPNC, especially our Visit North Carolina team’s work to drive more leisure travel spending across North Carolina’s tourism economy,” stated Christopher Chung, Chief Executive Officer of the EDPNC. “At the same time, Andrew also brings a strong understanding of the other important facets of the EDPNC’s mission that contribute to our state’s economic well-being, particularly in Eastern North Carolina. We are excited to benefit from the insights and connections he brings to the EDPNC Board of Directors.”
The EDPNC board meets four times a year, with members often attending EDPNC functions and major statewide industry announcements. Schmidt’s EDPNC Board of Directors appointment will last through the 2028 calendar year.
Learn more about the EDPNC Board here: EDPNC.com/Who-We-Are
