DeKalb Economic Development Event Connects Leaders and Businesses

The DeKalb County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) is set to host its annual breakfast event on **December 2, 2023**, aimed at fostering connections between community leaders, educators, stakeholders, and business partners. The gathering will take place from **8:30 to 10:30 a.m.** at Faranda’s, located at **302 Grove Street, DeKalb**. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with partners from across the county while gaining insights into regional economic growth.

A highlight of the event will be a fireside chat titled “Collaboration and Connection in Action: Powering Economic Growth and Strengthening Communities,” scheduled to begin at **9:15 a.m.** This discussion will feature prominent leaders from local higher education institutions, including **Lisa Freeman**, President of Northern Illinois University, **Laurie Borowicz**, President of Kishwaukee College, and **Brian Knetl**, President of Waubonsee Community College. The conversation will be moderated by **Melissa Amedeo**, Executive Director of DCEDC.

The panel will focus on how colleges collaborate to align local professional development efforts with broader statewide and regional economic needs. Additionally, the discussion will explore strategies employed by these institutions to address emerging opportunities in the workforce. Amedeo remarked, “When we invest in learning at every level, beginning with pre-Kindergarten, we have the power to create opportunities, not just for individuals, but for our entire community. Whether individuals attend a four-year university, a community college, an apprenticeship program, or complete a certification program, it creates a strong pathway to a meaningful career. This, in turn, strengthens our neighborhoods and fuels long-term economic stability and growth.”

At **10 a.m.**, Amedeo will present the organization’s annual report, which will detail key accomplishments, updates on major economic development initiatives, and preview priorities for **2026**.

For those interested in attending, further information and registration details can be found at [DCEDC.org/events](http://DCEDC.org/events). This event represents a significant opportunity for collaboration and dialogue among leaders focused on enhancing the economic landscape of DeKalb County.