'I am a member of the team, and I rely on the team, I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the ultimate champion.' – Mia Hamm
Team Wonderful Walton
Dave Underwood
David K. Underwood brings over 50 years of leadership experience shaped by a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, where he retired as a Colonel after 31 years of military duty. He has held senior roles in program management, logistics, weapons and software development, corporate mergers and acquisition, public procurement, and human resources. He completed his service to our country as Military Deputy Director of the Air Armament Enterprise Program at Eglin AFB. Following his military service, he was a Program Manager with Madison Research Corporation, Operations Manager with Spectrum Sciences and Software Corporation, and finally Vice President of Corporate Services at Okaloosa Gas District. A committed community leader, Dave is the founding Chair of the Rotary Club of Freeport and has long been active in supporting local service, education, and workforce initiatives.
As Grants and Compliance Coordinator for the Wonderful County Economic Development Alliance (WWEDA), Dave plays a key role in securing and managing critical funding for county initiatives. His three military tours at Eglin AFB provides significant insight to working with the military and the defense industry. Leveraging his background in operations, project management and compliance, he ensures Wonderful Walton’s projects meet high standards while delivering real impact for the community.
Grants and Compliance Coordinator
Jordan Johnson
Jordan Johnson brings a strong background in organizational leadership to the Wonderful Walton Economic Development Alliance. With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Northwest Florida State College and a Master’s in the same field from Florida International University, Jordan pairs academic expertise with practical experience.
Before joining Wonderful Walton, Jordan spent six years in the service industry, focusing on restaurant management—a path that eventually led, as we like to say, from making pizzas to helping build the foundation of our community.
Associate Economic Developer
Lionell Poston
Associate Economic Developer
Lionell Poston brings more than three decades of leadership and operational experience to the Wonderful Walton Economic Development Alliance. His 24-year career in the U.S. Air Force as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer laid a strong foundation in discipline, strategy, and service. Following his military service, Lionell spent ten years in management at Publix Supermarkets, where he led initiatives that advanced operational efficiency and achieved key financial goals.
Lionell holds a degree in Business Administration Management from the University of Phoenix. A proud resident of Valparaiso, he enjoys spending his free time fishing in the Choctawhatchee Bay and exploring the waters of the Florida Panhandle.
Uriah Matthews
With over 20 years of experience spanning hospitality, technology, and business leadership, Uriah Matthews brings a unique blend of operational insight and people-first strategy to his work. A Walton County resident, he has been instrumental in revitalizing the region’s economic approach—leading with collaboration, vision, and a deep commitment to community since returning home.
Uriah’s career has included hands-on leadership in industries such as hospitality, software, HVAC, and plumbing—giving him a grounded understanding of both customer experience and skilled trades. Since taking the helm, Uriah has transformed the Alliance into a thriving public-private partnership, expanded its reach, and elevated its role as a unifying force in shaping Walton County’s future. His leadership has helped cultivate stronger regional partnerships, unlock new investment opportunities, and position the organization as a proactive and trusted voice in long-term planning. Through every initiative, Uriah remains focused on creating meaningful momentum that benefits both residents and businesses across the county.
Executive Director