Texarkana – The Main Street Texarkana nonprofit announced Wednesday that its longtime executive director, Ina McDowell, has successfully completed her third re‑certification as a Professional Community and Economic Developer (PCED). The certification was granted by the University of Central Arkansas Community Development Institute (CDI), a nationally recognized program that equips community leaders with the latest economic‑development tools.
Why the Certification Matters
PCED certification is not a one‑time credential; professionals must renew it every few years to stay current with evolving development trends, data, and best practices. McDowell first earned the credential in 2019 and has now demonstrated continued mastery of the field through the rigorous three‑year coursework and periodic re‑certification requirements.
About the University of Central Arkansas Community Development Institute
Founded in 1987 through partnerships with Entergy, Southwestern Bell and ARKLA, the CDI has expanded its reach to Texas, Alabama, Idaho and Illinois. A national governing body, the Community Development Council, oversees certification standards and ensures consistency across the country’s more than 1,200 CDI programs.
McDowell’s Background and Impact on Texarkana
McDowell holds a B.A. in sociology with a minor in communication/public address from the University of North Texas and an M.B.A. from the University of Memphis. Since 2012 she has led Main Street Texarkana, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit accredited by the National Main Street program. Under her stewardship, the organization has championed historic preservation and economic revitalization throughout the historic downtown district, the only two‑state Main Street program in the nation.
Her leadership has helped attract new businesses, preserve historic architecture, and foster a sense of pride among residents. The recent re‑certification underscores her commitment to bringing the latest economic‑development strategies to the community.
What This Means for the Community
With McDowell’s renewed credentials, Main Street Texarkana is positioned to continue leveraging federal, state and private resources to improve the downtown area. The organization’s work supports families and local entrepreneurs by creating jobs, enhancing public spaces, and preserving the cultural heritage that defines Texarkana’s identity.
Residents and business owners can look forward to ongoing projects that blend historic charm with modern economic opportunity, reinforcing the city’s role as a vibrant hub on the Texas‑Arkansas border.
Looking Ahead
McDowell and Main Street Texarkana plan to expand outreach efforts, strengthen partnerships with the University of Central Arkansas and other regional development agencies, and continue offering educational workshops for local business owners. The organization invites community members to get involved, attend upcoming events, and support the continued revitalization of historic downtown Texarkana.
For more information about Main Street Texarkana’s initiatives, visit MainStreetTexarkana.org.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
