Eugene Cornelius has a rich history of leadership and expertise in various roles across public service and economic development.
Prior to his position as the Senior Director of the Center for Regional Economics, he served as the Deputy Associate Administrator for the Office of Business and Economic Development. In this role, Eugene provided senior leadership to a significant portion of the Agency’s workforce, overseeing the implementation of its goals, programs, and operations.
Eugene’s educational background includes graduating from the Economic Development Institute at the University of Oklahoma and completing the Acquisition (Level 3) Senior Project Manager Program at American University. He is nationally certified as an Associate in Risk Management (ARM). With a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a master’s degree in Public Administration, Eugene also serves as a visiting Scholar at George Washington University.
Recognized for his innovative contributions, Eugene received the Harvard University School of Business “Bright Idea” for Innovation in American Government Award for his work on the Business Builder economic development initiative. As a native of Chicago and a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Eugene Cornelius brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his professional endeavors.
Current Roles and Focus
Executive Director, Washington, D.C. Chapter, CEO Life: Leads local chapter initiatives, fosters growth, connection, and support among CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high-level leaders; promotes local and global events and philanthropy; counters leadership isolation.
Professional Experience
- Policy Advisor: Advises on strategic policy development and implementation across economic development and regional economics initiatives.
- Senior Director, Center for Regional Economics: Milken Institute — Oversaw regional economic strategies and impact.
- Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Business and Economic Development: Managed 90+ offices across all 50 states and territories; guided agency goals, programs, and operations.
- Deputy Administrator for the Office of International Trade, SBA (retired): Responsible for administering a newly reorganized department with oversight and execution of four program divisions:
1) The Federal & State Trade Development Division — delivery and management of grants program
2) The International Trade Finance Division — trade financing, counseling, and training with SBA’s 3 loan programs via 19 Export Assistance Centers Nationwide
3) The International Affairs & Trade Policy Division — national initiatives, trade policy mandates, export promotion interagency collaboration, field network and outreach
4) Administration & Operations — budget, human resources, and management
Acting Regional Administrator, Region III: Covered Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia
5) Field Operations Lead, SBA: Provided senior leadership to over 42% of the Agency’s budgeted workforce; oversaw 90+ offices across 50 states, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and U.S. Territories
Education & Certifications
- Economic Development Institute, University of Oklahoma
- Acquisition (Level 3) Senior Project Manager Program, American University
- Associate in Risk Management (ARM) – National certification
- B.B.A., Business Administration
- M.P.A., Public Administration
Affiliations & Honors
- Visiting Scholar, George Washington University
- Harvard University School of Business “Bright Idea” for Innovation in American Government Award (Business Builder initiative)
- Native of Chicago; life member, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.