Director of Economic Development
Alicia Payseno is passionate about driving her community forward, and as the director of economic development for the city of Cabot, she is able to do just that. While economic development was not Payseno’s first taste of success, her background in operations, manufacturing and small business has been beneficial to her current career.
As the recipient of numerous scholarships for culinary arts, Payseno dreamed of working in kitchens across the country and opening her own restaurant. After becoming a mother, the rigorous demands of that career led her to change paths, leave that institution, and transition into the marketing field. “As a single mother, I continually balance the demands of raising children and the ambition of a successful career. I have shown my daughters that dreams can thrive through adversity and that goals are obtained through hard work and dedication,” Payseno said.
Throughout her 25-year career, Payseno sought professional development opportunities and is grateful for employers who offered tuition reimbursement and paid for accreditations. Most recently, she graduated from the Community Development Institute at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway and in 2023, she earned her professional community and economic development certificate.
“Pursuing education throughout your life professionally and personally is the most impactful way to grow and flourish,” Payseno said.
With an understanding of small business management, workforce development and public relations, she entered into economic development with the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2021, she transitioned to her current position at the city of Cabot.
“We are able to provide space for people to come together for the common good and transform shared hopes into action,” Payseno said. “From critical causes like food insecurity, child protection, domestic violence, homelessness and rescue relief to community development efforts, including the arts, athletics, education and inspiration, city administration fosters this civic engagement and leadership.”
Working with the local administration, Payseno works to enhance Cabot through programming, jobs, education, health care and economic growth.
“I am currently working on projects that may not come into our community for years or perhaps even after this current city administration has left,” Payseno said. “However, we will passionately pursue these efforts for the betterment of our city.”
Collaboration and unity are at the cornerstone of moving Cabot forward, and both are present in the announcement of Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine.
“It will be the most impactful advancement for Cabot, and the entire team worked to make this project possible. I am able to be a trailblazer in my industry because of the amazing people that share a mutual vision for a pro-growth environment,” Payseno said.
