While respecting tried and true mainstream orthodoxies, author Eric D. Hovee also looks for the roads less traveled. And whether in business, with family or in spirit, that can make all the difference.

From Vocation …

For 40+ years, I have provided economic and development consulting services meeting distinct needs of private, non-profit and public agency clients through the independent consulting firm E. D. Hovee & Company, LLC. Before opening a consulting practice in 1984, I served as Economic Development Manager for the City of Vancouver WA and previously in a similar capacity for the City of Portland OR.

Educated at the University of Pennsylvania in economics and urban studies, I also have served as an instructor and speaker for the National Main Street Center, U.S. Conference of Mayors, and for statewide planning and development organizations across much of North America. At home, I have been involved in public-private boards for neighborhood advocacy, affordable housing, downtown revitalization, workforce training, and economic development.

For a sampling of my consulting work, check out representative project assignments by clicking on: Portfolio. Since 2016, I also have periodically posted on topics of interest — ranging from post-recession winners and losers to today’s hot topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI). A complete listing of blog postings dating to 2016 can be found at: Blog Post Listing.

… To Avocation

Since childhood, my life has centered on pursuits both secular and spiritual. My father and mother led a country church in Oregon. My brother and I would trade off preaching sermons to one another.

While experiencing an early adult-hood crisis of faith, I found that the journeys of early church pioneers were important in understanding not just historical relevance but also as the foundation for a firmer faith. Over the years, I have been privileged to serve in formal and informal capacities for a range of church and affiliated religious endeavors — as in teaching, preaching, financial advisory capacities.

Outside interests include the historical-theological record of early Christianity and antiquities of the Levant. Multiple trips to Israel have provided on-the ground opportunity to get to know the lay of the land and people today — best understood by learning to navigate the streets of Jerusalem almost by instinct. And worship with Christian churches, some catering to locals, others to visitors and yet others to a mix of congregants. All praising the God who provides a common bond across cultures. All praying for the peace of Jerusalem.

,,, For Results, Not Ours But Yours

As with most endeavors, my life has revolved around family as well as friends, clients and those who approach life from both material and spiritual perspectives. Married, with five daughters and 12 grand-children, I am fortunate to have live and worked in the eastern, mid-America and western states of the U.S.

Whether for clients long served or now for readers of Conflict & Peace, the value of this interaction comes when the story contributes to a meaningful result as pertinent conclusions are determined not by this author but by you.