Michael Alan Southard, President & CEO
Education: Master of Regional and City Planning with emphasis on Community and Economic Development from the University of Oklahoma in 1993. Thesis titled, “Marketing Communities for Economic Development”
Bachelor of Arts in Public Affairs and Administration from OU in 1991
Experience: Mike came to Ada after spending over 10 years leading the community development efforts in Shawnee and Muskogee and 3 years as a city planner in Oklahoma City. He led efforts to enhance community appearance and pioneered revitalization processes to remove dilapidated structures and breathe life into deteriorating neighborhoods and business districts. Under Mike’s direction, Shawnee adopted the first rehab code in Oklahoma and Muskogee passed the first modern manufactured housing code in the state. Through these entrepreneurial efforts, Shawnee has seen around $15 million in reinvestment. He was instrumental in the neighborhood revitalization efforts that have culminated in over 200 new houses built on infill lots in the two communities. Mike has served on various boards and committees over his career ranging from Habitat for Humanity to the local chamber. He has shared his knowledge across the state on topics such as community image, visioning and design. Mike is not only a leader in Oklahoma but nationally where he served as the Region 3 Commissioner on the governing board for certified planners, American Institute of Certified Planners.
Mike is a member of the American Planning Association, American Institute of Certified Planners, International Economic Development Council, Southern Economic Development Council, Oklahoma Professionals Economic Development Council and the Governor’s Economic Development Team.