City names Economic Development Director

The City of Broken Arrow has named Travis Stephens as its new Economic Development Director.

Stephens brings 17 years of professional experience in Community and Economic Development to the city's Tourism and Economic Development (TED) team. He has held a wide variety of leadership roles and has experience in building communities.

City Manager Michael Spurgeon introduced Stephens to the community at the City Council meeting held on Oct. 21.

"It's all about maintaining a great quality of life. Travis Stephens brings a robust resume, showcasing extensive experience in both economic development and management," Spurgeon said. "I am confident that Travis will excel in leading our Travel and Economic Development office and will help continue Broken Arrow's upward trajectory in retaining and attracting businesses that will secure the growth and prosperity of our community."

Stephens expressed his enthusiasm for the new role at the City of Broken Arrow and said, "There is tremendous economic momentum in Broken Arrow," he said. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to help carry that positive momentum forward for the residents and businesses of this great community."

Most recently, Stephens led the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, where he also served as the City of Joplin's contracted economic developer. Previously held roles include leadership positions with the Chamber of Commerce in Bentonville and Clarksville, Arkansas, and an Economic Development position with the City of Bella Vista, Arkansas.

"What drew me most to Broken Arrow is the spirit of collaboration between the city, residents, and the business community," Stephens said. "I look forward to working alongside City Manager Michael Spurgeon and the tremendous team at the City of Broken Arrow, James Bell and the Broken Arrow Chamber staff, and so many forward-thinking residents and business leaders who make this city thrive."

Stephens' background includes business retention and attraction, industrial land development, community marketing and promotion, tourism, downtown development, and entrepreneurship.

He is a native of Fort Smith, Arkansas, and holds an economics degree from the University of Arkansas. Stephens is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma's Economic Development Institute and the U.S. Chamber's Institute of Organizational Management and the Community Development Institute at the University of Central Arkansas.

"I am truly excited to be joining this extraordinary city, and my wife, Kelli, and I are eager to become part of the vibrant Broken Arrow community," Stephens said.