Audrey Hodges

Joined EDPA: 2022

About:

At her core, Audrey Hodges is a strategic communicator, storyteller, and relationship-builder with a deep passion for connecting people, fostering engagement, and driving impact across Alabama. From shaping statewide talent initiatives to amplifying entrepreneurial ecosystems, Audrey’s work is rooted in the belief that great communication not only informs but also inspires action and strengthens communities.

Originally from Evansville, Indiana, Audrey’s path led her to Alabama, where she has spent her career serving the state in a statewide capacity—first in the sports industry and now in economic and talent development. Her ability to craft compelling narratives, build meaningful partnerships, and elevate visibility has positioned her as a trusted voice in public relations and marketing strategy.

Audrey’s introduction to statewide impact work began with the United States Golf Association's (USGA) Alabama Golf Association (AGA), where she established and led the organization’s marketing and communications department. Serving as both Manager and later Director of Communications for the AGA and Southern Golf Association (SGA), she spearheaded efforts to rebrand, elevate awareness, and connect communities across Alabama and beyond. Through her work, she amplified major championships, secured statewide advertising campaigns, and even helped launch the Elite Amateur Golf Series (EAGS), which brought together seven of the nation’s top amateur golf events—further reinforcing Alabama’s presence in the sports industry.

Her love for statewide storytelling and impact-driven initiatives made the transition to economic development and workforce retention a natural next step. In 2022, Audrey joined the Economic Development Partnership of Alabama (EDPA), where she now leads all internal and external communications, branding, and talent initiatives across the organization’s five pillars: lead generation, business intelligence, talent attraction & retention, policy, and innovation & entrepreneurship.

One of her most rewarding projects has been FuelAL, Alabama’s flagship talent retention program designed to showcase the state’s professional opportunities, lifestyle, and industries to college students and emerging talent. Since its pilot year in 2022, the program has expanded from 17 students to nearly 900 across 10 Alabama communities—a testament to its growing impact. Audrey has worked to expand FuelAL’s reach, foster key partnerships, and elevate the conversation around talent retention statewide.

Beyond her professional work, Audrey is deeply committed to serving the people and communities of Alabama. She is actively involved in:

• Rotaract Club of Birmingham
• Ronald McDonald House Charities of Alabama, serving as a Board Fellow
• Alabama Impact Alliance Board
• Studio By the Tracks Junior Board
• EDAA Communications Committee

Outside of work, Audrey enjoys sipping coffee with friends and family, thrifting antique treasures, playing with her puppy, Charlie, and spending time with her husband, Josh.