Knox Area Development Foundation earns top honors at 2025 Ohio Economic Development Summit

The Area Development Foundation of Knox County was recognized in multiple categories at the 2025 Ohio Economic Development Association Annual Summit held in Akron. The foundation took home two statewide awards and was named a finalist for a third, marking an exceptional year of achievement and impact for the organization and the Knox County community.

The Ohio Economic Development Association is the leading professional organization for economic development practitioners in the state, dedicated to advancing the practice of economic development through advocacy, education, and professional recognition. Each year, OEDA honors outstanding projects, programs, and individuals who exemplify excellence in the field.

ADF’s Knox WorkDev initiative was awarded Excellence in Workforce Development for its creative, business-first approach to connecting employers, educators, and community organizations. The program was recognized for developing innovative and replicable workforce strategies that directly respond to local industry needs. Knox WorkDev has become one of Ohio’s premier workforce partnerships and a model for other regions striving to strengthen their talent pipelines.

Julia Suggs, ADF vice president and chair of Knox WorkDev, reflected on the recognition, saying, “This award is a testament to the dedication and resiliency of our local employers and their passion for connecting individuals to high-quality career pathways in our most in-demand fields. Knox WorkDev proves that when workforce development is built on genuine connection, we aren’t limited by our resources — we’re fueled by our relationships.”

Suggs was previously recognized by OEDA as the Economic Development Rookie of the Year in 2023, underscoring her continued leadership and impact in advancing innovative, community-driven workforce strategies across Knox County.

In addition, Sam Filkins, president of the Area Development Foundation, was named Ohio Economic Developer of the Year — the top individual honor in the state. This award recognizes an individual who has made outstanding contributions to economic development in Ohio. Filkins was honored for his leadership through the Knox County Land Bank and for advancing numerous redevelopment and strategic initiatives at ADF. His visionary work has inspired peers across the state, with several of his programs serving as models for replication at the state level.

Sam Filkins shared that, “Being named Economic Developer of the Year is an incredible honor. This recognition reflects the collaborative spirit that defines Knox County and the many partners who work together to strengthen our community. At ADF, our work is rooted in collaboration and a belief thatlasting success comes from investing in people, places, and partnerships. I am grateful to be part of a team and a community that shares that vision.”

Finally, Heartland Commerce Park was named a finalist for Economic Development Project of the Year, honoring Ohio’s most impactful redevelopment efforts. The project stood out for transforming an industrial brownfield through strong collaboration among local, regional, and state partners. Competing with projects from larger cities, Heartland Commerce Park was recognized for its innovative, sustainable approach and lasting impact on regional growth.

Being recognized in three categories — including two statewide wins and one finalist position — highlights ADF’s continued leadership in driving community-centered, business-focused development that makes a lasting difference in Knox County and beyond.

For more information about ADF’s economic and workforce development efforts, visit knoxadf.com.