Chief Economist to Speak at Economic Development Quarterly Breakfast

Jerry Parrish, Ph.D., chief economist for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, will be the featured speaker at Volusia County Economic Development’s next quarterly “Q” Breakfast, which will be held from 8 to 9 a.m. Friday, Nov. 17, in the Dennis McGee Room at Daytona Beach International Airport.

He will provide a 2024 outlook on economic conditions at the local, state, and national levels.

In his previous position, Dr. Parrish was the director of state and local policy analysis at the Florida Institute of Government at Florida State University (FSU). He is also a faculty adjunct in the Master of Applied Economics Program at FSU. He previously was the chief economist and director of research for the Florida Chamber Foundation.

Cyrus Callum, director of Volusia County Aviation and Economic Resources, will discuss the county’s third quarter 2023 economic data, which includes business formation trends, patents, business establishments, residential and commercial construction building permit activity, labor statistics, and employment trends by industry.

“Q” breakfasts are offered quarterly, with each program featuring a subject matter expert or panel of experts who present relevant information on programs and services that may benefit stakeholders and the local business community. Past speakers have included Laura DiBello, former deputy secretary of commerce and president of Enterprise Florida (now Florida Commerce); Frank DiBella, president and CEO of Space Florida; Jennifer Taylor, president and CEO of GrowFL; and Jonel Hein, director of the Small Business Administration’s North Florida District.

The breakfasts provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about the state of Volusia County’s economy and interact with elected officials, community partners, and stakeholders. To reserve a spot, contact Volusia County Economic Development at 386-248-8048 or email vced@volusia.org.