Sam Powers, Asheville’s director of economic development, recently was named the 2012 Economic Developer of the Year during the annual banquet of the N.C. Economic Development Association in Raleigh.

Regarding the award, Powers said that it was not about him, but about the city’s partnerships with the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, Buncombe County, the Tourism Development Authority and other agencies. The award gives significant recognition of the community’s ability to work together.

In the past year, Powers has overseen renovations — and a name change — for the Civic Center. He also helped to recruit two new manufacturers for Asheville, including an auto parts-maker and a major brewery.

Among other successes, Powers was a key negotiator with Lionsgate Productions to film “The Hunger Games” at North Folk Reservoir.