HOTCOG Executive Director Russell Devorsky Elected to National NADO Executive Board

WACO, Texas — October 29, 2025 — The Heart of Texas Council of Governments (HOTCOG) is proud to announce that Executive Director Russell Devorsky has been elected Secretary of the Executive Committee of the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO). His election took place during the 2025 NADO Annual Training Conference, held in Salt Lake City, Utah.

NADO, a 501(c)(4) membership association established in 1967, represents the interests of regional community and economic development practitioners across the United States. The organization advocates for federal policies and programs that promote equitable community development, economic competitiveness, rural advancement, and quality of place. Today, NADO represents a nationwide network of more than 500 Regional Development Organizations (RDOs), including councils of governments, economic development districts, and regional planning commissions.

Devorsky joins an accomplished group of national leaders on NADO’s Executive Committee, which includes representatives from across the country. In his new role as Secretary, Devorsky will help guide NADO’s national initiatives, including federal advocacy, research collaborations, and training programs that support regional and rural development efforts nationwide.

“Russell’s election to the NADO Executive Committee is a testament to his outstanding leadership, vision, and enduring commitment to advancing regional collaboration and economic opportunity,” said Dorthy Jackson, Regional & Economic Development Manager for the Heart of Texas Council of Governments. “His extensive experience in the Heart of Texas region will provide valuable insight to national discussions on economic resilience and community development. This milestone also marks a historic moment for our organization, as it is the first time in HOTCOG’s history that one of our Executive Directors has been elected to serve on NADO’s Executive Committee.”

Under Devorsky’s leadership, HOTCOG has continued to strengthen its regional development programs, supporting local governments, businesses, and communities across six Central Texas counties. His service on the national board ensures that the priorities and needs of rural and mid-sized communities like those in the Heart of Texas region are well represented in federal policy discussions.

About NADO

The National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) and its NADO Research Foundation provide advocacy, education, and peer exchange for regional development professionals. NADO plays an influential role in advancing federal initiatives such as the Economic Development Administration (EDA) reauthorization, which was successfully passed in 2024 after two decades of advocacy. Through conferences, technical assistance, and national peer-learning programs, NADO continues to support local innovation and collaboration across America.

About HOTCOG

The Heart of Texas Council of Governments (HOTCOG) serves a six-county region including Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan counties. HOTCOG provides regional planning, economic development, and cooperative services to strengthen local governments and improve quality of life throughout Central Texas.