Press Release: Ashia Todd Joins Ada Jobs Foundation Team

September 10, 2022 by Jessika Leatherbury

ADA, OKLAHOMA – Ashia Todd joins the Ada Jobs Foundation (AJF) as the Startup Community Manager. Previously, Todd worked as the Member Services Director for the Ada Area Chamber of Commerce, and most recently as the Director of Alumni Relations for East Central University.

As the Startup Community Manager, Todd will work to build a network of tech and startup champions, organize monthly events, and schedule the first regional Startup Leadership Roundtable in Southern Oklahoma. The Big Pitch Ada event will also be managed by Todd, who will connect with regional partners to continue to grow these programs, such the Chickasaw Nation, Rural Enterprises of Oklahoma, Oklahoma Gas and Electric, East Central University, and Pontotoc Technology Center, among others.

“We need a supportive culture of entrepreneurship in our region as a foundation for new tech startups to grow,” said James Eldridge, President and CEO of the Ada Jobs Foundation. “Ashia brings an incredible background in creating communities through events, communication, and outreach. We are excited to bring her experience to this effort and work to launch a series of startup events and programs in Southern Oklahoma.”

“I believe in our community and the people,” said Ashia Todd. “Working with tech startups to help them network, learn and provide opportunities for growth is wonderful for Ada, the region, and our state. Let’s change the narrative of rural America.”

Todd has a passion for event planning and problem-solving. She has a side business as a social media consultant and content planner. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication from East Central University and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree. Originally from Noble, Todd has been an Ada resident for 10 years now. She has one little boy and hopes to continue to improve Ada for him and generations to come.

The Startup Community Manager position was created through the Build to Scale Award that AJF received from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) in 2021. This position will be funded through this grant for the next 3 years.

We want to hear from you. Do you want to be involved as we build a network of tech and startup champions? Contact Ashia at atodd@growada.com.

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