University of Alaska Center for Economic Development welcomes new executive director

The University of Alaska Center for Economic Development (CED) recently welcomed its new executive director (ED), Jared Reynolds. An experienced leader in economic development, Reynolds comes to CED from Do North Coworking, a program of Vermont State University’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. At Do North Coworking, Reynolds led operations, fundraising, and program development, including the launch of the Forestry Accelerator.

Living and working in both urban and rural settings in the Lower 48, Reynolds brings a unique breadth of knowledge that will be of special benefit to Alaskans. “I’m especially excited to work with rural Alaska on growing local businesses and building a strong economy and communities throughout the state,” said Reynolds. Though new to Anchorage, Reynolds previously worked for Southeast Alaska Regional Health Consortium in Sitka. “I’m familiar with the state, and I look forward to working with partners across Alaska to address both its economic challenges and opportunities.”

Reynolds holds master’s degrees in public policy analysis and social policy analysis, as well as Economic and Municipal Finance certificates from the University of Chicago. He has worked in various leadership roles advancing economic and community development in New England and the Midwest for over 10 years. “Mr. Reynolds brings a unique blend of practical and comprehensive experience in economic development, entrepreneurial ecosystem building, and higher education,” said Christi Bell, Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director of UAA’s Business Enterprise Institute. “His track record of achievements across diverse roles reflects his dedication to fostering innovation and building vibrant, resilient economies. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and look forward to the impact he’ll make.”

CED is a program of UAA’s Business Enterprise Institute. Reynolds joined CED as its ED earlier this month. He replaces former CED ED, Nolan Klouda, who joined Mayor LaFrance’s administration this summer. To learn more about Reynolds and his professional experience, his LinkedIn profile can be found here: linkedin.com/in/jaredwreynolds, or he can be reached at jwreynolds6@alaska.edu.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Kristin DeSmith, Communications and Marketing Director, UAA’s Business Enterprise Institute, kadesmith@alaska.edu