Jazz Keyes Named CEO of Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation, Leading VSEDC Into a New Era

Los Angeles, CA–The Vermont Slauson Economic Development Corporation has named Jazz Keyes as its new president and chief executive officer, ushering in a pivotal moment for one of South Los Angeles’ most influential economic development institutions.

As VSEDC works to rebuild its foundation and strengthen its future, Keyes is stepping into the role with clarity and conviction. Keyes’ leadership philosophy is rooted in lived experience as much as professional training. With academic credentials in corporate communication, clinical psychology and a doctorate in business administration, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to economic development. Still, she credits her upbringing in a low-income environment as the foundation for her commitment.

Read More: https://voiceofblackla.com/april-showers-launches-entrepreneur-focused-talk-show-on-afrolandtv/

“Anytime you are planted in the community to do work centered on advocacy, empowerment and economic liberation, to act as if you don’t have a responsibility is negligent,” Keyes said. 

Keyes steps into leadership with a deeply personal connection to the work. Her appointment follows a rapid rise within VSEDC, where she joined a few years ago as a program director and quickly expanded her role across initiatives before being tapped by the board to lead.

Keyes also centers her leadership in the legacy of Marva Smith Battle-Bey, the visionary founder who established VSEDC as a vehicle for Black economic empowerment in South Los Angeles.

Read More: https://vsedc.org/about-us/

“Every brick, every doorway and every dream tied to this organization carries her imprint,” Keyes said. “She built VSEDC as a place of refuge in systems that were not designed for us to survive, let alone thrive.”

Through VSEDC, entrepreneurs and small business owners across South L.A. have accessed capital, technical assistance and strategic support to grow and sustain their businesses. Looking ahead, Keyes is focused on expanding VSEDC’s reach during a time of widening economic inequality and transforming VSEDC’s physical location into a trusted hub where community members can access resources and support. 

As VSEDC works to rebuild its foundation and strengthen its future, Keyes is stepping into the role with clarity and conviction. For South Los Angeles, her leadership signals more than a transition—it marks a renewed commitment to economic empowerment, community resilience and a future shaped by those who have long been building it from within.

“Our duty is to serve and to stand on the front lines for our business owners. We return to the community with resources, with care and with tools so people can achieve economic mobility.”