Walter C. Sprouse, CEcD, FM, HLM, Executive Director of the Augusta Economic Development Authority, has been named to the 2017 list of “North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers” by Consultant Connect.

Consultant Connect, a consulting agency designed to bridge the gap between economic developers and site consultants, made the announcement today. Sprouse and the others on the Top 50 list were nominated by their colleagues in both the economic development industry and the site consultant community for excellent practices, innovation and success in building the communities they serve.

Earlier this month, Sprouse was named to Georgia Trend Magazine’s prestigious list of the “100 Most Influential Georgians” for 2017.

Ron Kitchens, managing partner of Consultant Connect, said “This annual list recognizing North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers is designed to acknowledge the hard work of the top leaders in this field and elevate the conversation around economic development and job creation.  Each of the leaders represented on this year’s list are beyond deserving of this recognition for their efforts in building our communities.”

Sprouse is a native of Monroe, North Carolina, a graduate of the University of South Carolina School of Journalism, and the University of Georgia Institute for Organizational Management.  Sprouse served on the Board of Directors of the International Economic Development Council for twelve years.  He was recognized by IEDC as a Fellow Member in 2008 and as an Honorary Life Member in 2011.   He is an active member of the Georgia Economic Developers Association, the University of South Carolina Alumni Academy and is a former member of the Board of Trustees of the University of South Carolina Alumni Association.  He is a Fellow of the Industrial Asset Management Council, and Past President of the North Carolina Economic Developers Association.  He is a former State Director for the Southern Economic Development Council, and currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta.

Sprouse is married to Cookie Clyburn Sprouse.  They have two sons, two daughters-in-law and four grandchildren.