OCWCOG Director to Assume Role of CEO and President of NADCO in December, Sept. 9

Fred Abousleman, current Executive Director of Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG), will be leaving OCWCOG in December to take on a new role as Chief Executive Officier (CEO) and President of the National Association of Development Companies (NADCO).  “While we are sorry to see Fred depart, he is leaving OCWCOG in a strong position with opportunity to grow and to serve our members,” said Biff Traber, Mayor, City of Corvallis and Chair, OCWCOG Board of Directors. “It’s been a pleasure working with Fred and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.” NADCO is a Washington, DC-based trade association representing the interests of Certified Development Companies (CDCs) from around the country to Congress and the Administration, as well as providing training and information to CDCs. NADCO was founded in 1981 and its mission is to promote, enhance, and educate the industry of U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) CDCs. Through its Board of Directors and Washington-based Staff, NADCO works closely with the SBA to ensure the broadest possible access to capital by America’s small businesses. More than 97% of all SBA-504 financing is provided by NADCO members. In addition to Certified Development Companies, membership also includes over 240 bank and non-bank lenders, attorneys, and other service providers. NADCO members also lend through other vehicles, such as the U.S. Economic Development Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture revolving loan funds, and state and local investment dollars.  OCWCOG has a robust lending program spanning its forty-year history. OCWCOG has been instrumental in helping start or expand hundreds of businesses in the Valley and the Coast, and in being a partner with banks and credit unions to create jobs and opportunity.  “I have had a great time at OCWCOG, and it has honor and privilege to work with a supportive Board of Directors, dedicated staff, and community partners and members who are aligned to serve the needs of our residents and businesses,” said Abousleman. “OCWCOG is strong and growing, and while the organization will always face challenges in State and Federal funding, it has been able to maintain and grow its programs through the recognition that everything it does serves our member governments and their residents as best as possible.” Abousleman will transition from OCWCOG in December. OCWCOG’s Board of Directors will be working over the next three months on how best to transition to a new Executive Director. No employment decisions have been made.