MONTGOMERY— Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs Director Jim Byard Jr. named Jennifer Ardis as the department’s Communications and External Affairs Director effective today.
Ardis, a longtime Governor’s Office staffer, will lead the section of ADECA responsible for informing Alabamians about the department’s programs and grants. The section handles external communication with the public and news media and manages the department’s website and social media. In addition, Ardis will work with local Alabama communities to highlight ADECA’s strong partnerships to build stronger communities.
“With experience and expertise gained through 10 years at the highest level of state government, Jennifer Ardis will be an asset to our department as we continue to partner with local leaders across our state on projects and programs that improve economic development opportunities and enhance community development,” Byard said.
Ardis is a 2006 graduate of Troy University, and received a master’s degree in public administration from Auburn University Montgomery in 2010. She began her state government career in Gov. Bob Riley’s administration in 2006. In 2011, she was appointed Press Secretary to Gov. Robert Bentley. Prior to the new position at ADECA, Ardis was Communications Director for Bentley. She is a native of Monroeville.
“I am honored to join ADECA and look forward to my new role working to build better Alabama communities,” Ardis said. “Being from a small town and having previously worked in the Governor’s Office, I have a unique perspective on the importance ADECA is to rural communities. I appreciate the opportunity to advance the partnerships that ADECA has across the state.”
Previous ADECA Communications Director Larry Childers retired from state government service earlier this year.
ADECA manages a wide range of grant programs that support community and economic development, law enforcement and traffic safety, energy conservation and water resource management. For more about the department, visit www.adeca.alabama.gov.
Contact: Mike Presley or Jim Plott