PHOENIX, ARIZ. (May 19, 2025) — The Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED), Arizona’s unified voice for economic development professionals, is pleased to announce that its CEO, Katie Hurst, and member Danya Acosta have been selected as 2025 Flinn-Brown Fellows.
Katie and Danya are among 30 leaders across Arizona chosen for this highly competitive and prestigious civic leadership program. Participants in the Flinn-Brown experience are challenged to see issues through others’ eyes and share a commitment to expanding their public service.
The Flinn-Brown Fellowship, offered by the nonpartisan Arizona Center for Civic Leadership, helps experienced civic leaders from throughout Arizona expand their knowledge, skills, and networks in order to address Arizona’s long-term issues. The program includes unparalleled learning about Arizona policy and politics through the Flinn-Brown Academy and connections with top state leaders and policy experts. It also provides membership in the Flinn-Brown Fellows network and personalized long-term support for civic-leadership development.
“Being selected as a 2025 Flinn-Brown Fellow is a tremendous honor,” said Katie Hurst. “This fellowship presents a unique opportunity to engage with strategic and innovative thinkers from diverse sectors across Arizona. I am particularly excited about the breadth of perspectives and the novel ideas that will emerge from these interactions. I aim to bring these insights back to the AAED membership and to apply them in ways that further enhance Arizona’s vibrant culture and economic competitiveness.”
The Honorable Danya Acosta, who joined AAED in December 2024, was also selected as a 2025 Flinn-Brown Fellow. After beginning her career in law enforcement and holding several key roles within the City of Douglas, Danya was elected to the Douglas City Council in 2020 where she currently serves as mayor pro-tempore. Danya has been an active member of AAED, participating in the Government Affairs and Southern Committees, and is currently planning a tour of the Port of Douglas for the organization.
To learn more about the Flinn-Brown Fellowship and the impactful work of the Flinn Foundation, visit their website: https://flinn.org/azcivicleadership/flinn-brown-fellowship/
About the Arizona Association for Economic Development
AAED, founded in 1974, has a mission to serve as Arizona’s unified voice for responsible economic development through professional education, public policy, and collaboration. For more information on AAED, visit www.aaed.com or call (602) 240-2233.
