Carrie Kelly joins the Arizona Association for Economic Development as Executive Director

(PHOENIX – April 28, 2020) – The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED) announced today that Carrie Kelly has been hired as executive director. In her new role, Kelly will oversee AAED’s mission to serve as Arizona’s unified voice advocating for responsible economic development. In addition, Kelly will implement programs of professional education, public policy and collaboration.

Kelly has been working with nonprofits and government entities for more than 15 years. In her previous role, she served as executive director of Downtown Santa Barbara, (Calif.), where she successfully lobbied for public policies and partnerships advance economic development in the city. Prior to that, she served as executive director of the Mohave Community College Foundation in Kingman, Ariz.

“It’s great to be back in Arizona,” said Kelly, “I’m thrilled to continue fighting for policies that positively impact economic development in both rural and urban communities.”

Kelly holds a master’s degree in public affairs from Indiana University. She has volunteered at the Community Environmental Council and Indiana Debate Commission. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, 4-year-old daughter and their shelter hound, Charlie.

Nicole Snyder, AAED board president, said Kelly is the right choice to lead AAED, “Carrie has a demonstrated history of leading strategic initiatives and passion for economic development, and we look forward to the energy and enthusiasm she will bring to the organization.”

AAED, founded in 1974, has a mission to serve as Arizona’s unified voice advocating for responsible economic development through an effective program of professional education, public policy and collaboration.

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