June 27, 2025
NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Shawn Uhlman, Prosper Portland
The Prosper Portland Board of Commissioners will vote on his appointment at their Wednesday, July 9 meeting.
Following an extensive national search, Prosper Portland is pleased to announce that Cornell Wesley has been selected as the next Executive Director of Prosper Portland. Prosper Portland’s Board of Commissioners will consider his appointment at their Wednesday, July 9 Board meeting.
“I am looking forward to begin working with Cornell,” said Mayor Keith Wilson. “I am confident that he brings the expertise and insight that Portland needs in this moment. Working together, we can revitalize our economy and realize an economic renaissance for Portland.”
“We are delighted to have Cornell join Prosper Portland, and are excited about the energy, vision, and experience he will bring to the agency, and our city,” said Prosper Portland Board Chair Tavo Cruz. “I am confident that he will continue to build on the momentum we’re seeing on projects throughout the city, especially in the six new Tax Increment Finance Districts.”
Cornell brings more than 20 years of experience as a leader in driving urban and economic development, business expansion, and public-private partnerships. He is graduate of Morehouse College and has an MBA from Mercer University. As Chief Economic Development Officer for the City of Birmingham, Alabama, he led the city’s economic development strategy, driving initiatives that resulted in $2 billion in economic impact and $1.2 billion in new growth investments.
“I am thrilled to be joining Prosper Portland at such a pivotal time for the city,” said Cornell Wesley. “I look forward to working alongside such a dedicated team of leaders and staff who are absolutely committed to realizing inclusive economic growth for all Portlanders.”
Pending approval by the Board of Commissioners, Cornell will officially join Prosper Portland in the first week of August. His anticipated start date is Monday, August 4.
