Allen Named Delta Center Deputy Director
JONESBORO —The Arkansas State University Delta Center for Economic Development has named Andrea Allen as deputy director, according to Executive Director Shawnie Carrier.
“With almost 20 years of experience in government and public affairs, Andrea understands rural Arkansas, and she knows how to connect local, state, federal and private sector resources for the betterment of our communities. I know she will serve the Delta Center and our region well,” said Carrier.
A 1997 graduate of Arkansas State, Allen most recently served as the Delta Center’s director of public affairs and special projects. Prior to joining the Delta Center, she was deputy chief of staff to U.S. Representative Rick Crawford, a position she held since 2011.
“I appreciate the confidence shown in me and look forward to building on the Delta Center’s many strengths as well as expanding efforts to assist businesses and communities,” said Allen. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the incredible talent all across Arkansas State University on emerging community and economic development issues.”
Allen brings local, state and regional connections to the Delta Center. She is a graduate of the Delta Leadership Institute Executive Academy and a member of the Delta Leadership Network.
Allen has spent most of her career in public service working on community engagement initiatives and economic development projects as state director for a former U.S. senator, operations director for the city of Cabot, policy director on a gubernatorial campaign and as director of family programs for the National Guard Professional Education Center. In addition, she is co-chair of NEA Political Animals and a member of the Downtown Jonesboro Association.
Started in 1989, the Delta Center, located on the Arkansas State University campus, coordinates the economic development outreach services of Arkansas State by providing technical assistance, applied research and guidance for businesses, governments and citizens of Arkansas.
Along with supporting entrepreneurial efforts in the private sector through research studies, economic impact analysis and feasibility studies, the Delta Center provides professional and workforce development through online and in-house classes. It is also the home of the Small Business and Technology Development Center.
