Calvin Hedman

A new co-chairman of the board has been appointed to the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation, the organization announced Nov. 8.

The appointment of Calvin Hedman, a certified public accountant and community leader, was announced Tuesday. Hedman will join fellow co-chairman Don Fleming in leading the organization’s efforts to strengthen the valley’s economy.

Fleming is co-owner of Valencia Acura dealership. Hedman is president of Hedman Partners. His appointment takes effect in January 2012.

“I am excited Calvin has agreed to serve as co-chair,” Fleming said. “Since joining the board, he has brought an invaluable wealth of financial knowledge and business connections to the group.”

“I look forward to working together to bring continued success to the EDC and the community,” he said.

Hedman will replace outgoing co-chair Bill Kennedy, who has helmed the organization from its formation in 2009 to the present. Kennedy will remain a member of the EDC’s board and executive committee.

“We couldn’t have chosen a better successor. Calvin’s expertise is just what the SCVEDC needs to further its economic-development mission,” Kennedy said.

Earlier this year, the SCVEDC board of directors elected to split the chairman position in two, with each co-chairperson serving a staggered two-year term.

The co-chair structure allows the SCVEDC to utilize the diverse leadership and complementary skills of its board of directors, while preserving continuity from year to year.

“We are blessed with a great wealth of talent, experience and leadership on the SCVEDC Board of Directors,” said Jonas Peterson, SCVEDC president and CEO.

“With Calvin and Don’s guidance, the SCVEDC is ready to meet the challenges of continuing to grow the Valley’s economy,” he said.