Following a board meeting on Aug. 26, the Norman Economic Development Coalition has appointed an interim executive director following the departure of Maureen Hammond earlier this summer.

VisitNorman’s Executive Director Dan Schemm will remain in place at VisitNorman and serve in a dual role with NEDC while a search is underway for a permanent executive director. Schemm has a background in economic development having been the Vice President of Existing Business earlier in his career. He Is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.

“What VisitNorman does through tourism is economic development, so there is a definite overlap with the Norman Economic Development Coalition’s mission,” Schemm said. “During this period of time while NEDC searches for a director, serving as the interim while also continuing the work we do at VisitNorman, is an extension of that economic development base both entities have. I am excited to be able to guide NEDC during this time of finding the best person to lead their organization.”

“The NEDC Board is very pleased that Dan Schemm has accepted the interim role of Executive Director.”  NEDC Chairman Patrick Grace stated. “Dan’s background and experience, as well as his familiarity with Norman, are much needed during our leadership transition. The pandemic has greatly impacted NEDC’s ability to execute its transition strategy in the needed timeframe. Dan’s leadership during this time will ensure NEDC continues to fulfill its core mission of improving the quality of life of Norman residents through the creation and retention of jobs.”

A native of Edmond, Schemm earned two degrees at the University of Oklahoma, a bachelor’s degree in Engineering in Environmental Sciences and a master’s degree in Business Administration. He came to Norman in 2014 from the Go Wichita Convention and Visitors Bureau as the director of destination sales and services in Wichita, Kan.