UA Little Rock Names Aaron Huntley Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Institute
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock has named Aaron Huntley as executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Institute (AEDI), bringing more than 15 years of leadership experience, statewide partnerships, and a proven record of organizational growth to the role.
As executive director, he will lead AEDI’s research, outreach, and engagement efforts focused on strengthening Arkansas’s economy through data-driven insights, policy support, and collaborate on with public and private-sector partners.
Founded in 1955, AEDI and its predecessor organizations have served as an economic development research and engagement resource within the University of Arkansas system, supporting community, business, and government stakeholders across Arkansas. The institute is home to economists and applied researchers, the Arkansas Census State Data Center, and programs focused on emergency management, community development, and economic education on, including the annual Arkansas Economic Forecast Conference, delivered in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
“AEDI plays an important role in connecting university research with the needs of communities, businesses, and policymakers across Arkansas,” said Ann Bain, provost and executive vice chancellor of academic affairs. “Aaron’s background in strategic leadership and applied problem-solving will help ensure that our work continues to inform decision-making, support students and faculty, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economic development.”
Huntley joins UA Little Rock after nearly 20 years in the financial services and technology finance sectors, where he served in senior leadership roles including executive vice president and head of strategy. In those positions, he oversaw large-scale operations and mutii-million-dollar budgets across organizations with national reach. Throughout his career, Huntley has been recognized for building high-performing teams, launching innovative partnerships, and translating complex data into actionable strategies.
“Aaron Huntley brings a wonderful combination of executive leadership, statewide relationships, and a deep commitment to public service,” said Dr. Aaron Duvall, executive director of workforce development. “His experience leading complex organizations, working across sectors, and translating data into meaningful action will strengthen AEDI’s ability to serve communities, inform policy, and support Arkansas’s economic future.”
In addition to his executive experience, Huntley has been deeply engaged in Arkansas’s civic and economic development landscape. He currently serves as a city council member in Springdale and as the chairman of the region’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Huntley has worked closely with chambers of commerce, state officials, educators, and nonprofit leaders to advance workforce development, entrepreneurship, and community-focused initiatives. He has served on more than a dozen local and statewide nonprofit boards.
Huntley is also a graduate of UA Little Rock, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
“I am honored to return to my alma mater, UA Little Rock, and lead the Arkansas Economic Development Institute,” Huntley said. “Over the past decade, my work has centered on building relationships across the state and supporting communities as they pursue sustainable economic growth. AEDI’s ability to connect research, policy, and practice makes it a powerful resource for Arkansas, and I am excited to work with its outstanding team and partners to help strengthen the state that I love so much.”
As executive director, Huntley will focus on expanding AEDI’s statewide reach, strengthening partnerships, and aligning the institute’s work with regional, state, and federal priorities, advancing UA Little Rock’s role as a leader in research, engagement, and economic development.