Government & Economic Development Institute - GEDI at Auburn University

09/04/2026

GEDI was happy to coordinate and host the Public Sector Human Resource Association (PSHRA) summer conference last week. 175 human resource professionals gathered in Gulf Shores for educational sessions, legal updates and to receive professional development certifications. They also enjoyed networking events and fun activities like karaoke and a tacky Hawaiian shirt contest.

We are already planning the 2027 conference, so if you work in HR, save the dates of August 23-27, 2027!

09/03/2026

Jason Wilson was a proud Auburn graduate, hardworking businessman, an innovator, entrepreneur, public servant and a dear friend to us here at GEDI. We knew of Jason's recent health struggles and were devastated to learn of his passing last month. Friends gathered last weekend to celebrate his life and legacy and we wanted to take the opportunity to do so here.

Many knew Jason as a founder of Back Forty Beer Company and Coldwater Mountain Brew Pub or as their City Councilman in the City of Gadsden. He had many accomplishments and touched the lives of people in communities all over Alabama. He worked to change laws, create jobs, improve lives and help Gadsden and other towns grow and succeed.

Jason lived the Auburn Creed and served on many Auburn University boards and committees. For us, he was a frequent speaker and panelist on the topics of entrepreneurship and small business development. Back in 2016 when we were looking for a location to hold one of our economic development programs, Jason hosted us at Back Forty. He also fed us and gave us a tour.

Jason was incredibly motivational and always gave generously of his time and expertise to help others succeed and to mentor other entrepreneurs. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, family member and friend to so many people and we were blessed to be among his friends and to have his support of our programs. He is already greatly missed.

09/02/2026

Congratulations to Jonathan Schniper and Spire on receiving an Impact Outreach Partnership Award at last week’s Outreach & Engaged Scholarship Symposium.

The Impact Outreach Partnership Recognition celebrates partners whose collaboration on a specific outreach or engaged scholarship project has resulted in meaningful, measurable impact and highlights the power of partnership in advancing shared goals and community-centered outcomes. The award was presented at the end of the two-day Outreach and Engaged Scholarship Symposium which was held August 26-27 in Auburn. Schniper also served as a panelist during the symposium’s keynote panel session: "Passion and Purpose, the Power of Partnerships”.

Spire has been the presenting partner of the Government & Economic Development Institute’s (GEDI) Intensive Economic Development Training Course since 2018. Jonathan Schniper currently serves as Manager of Business and Economic Development at Spire and manages the partnership with GEDI for Spire.

“Spire’s ongoing commitment, involvement, and generous support has significantly enhanced the quality and impact of our Intensive Economic Development Training program, creating lasting benefits for individuals and communities across Alabama and beyond. Their partnership has helped position GEDI’s course as one of the nation’s most respected and effective basic economic development training courses”, explained Auburn University Outreach Assistant Vice President, Jeremy Arthur.

09/01/2026

Your Town Alabama - Designing Its Future will be hosting its next Porch Time Social at The Graduate Hotel in Auburn the week of our Intensive Economic Development Training course. If you're in town, come meet these fine folks! Our Intensive participants are welcome to join as well.

Meet us at the Graduate by Hilton in Auburn! Get ready to connect with peers, share ideas, and build relationships that strengthen our communities.

What: Porch Time, a community-building social event for Auburn
When: September 15, 2026, 5-7 PM
Where: War Eagle Room at the Graduate by Hilton Auburn

The social will be held in conjunction with the Government & Economic Development Institute - GEDI at Auburn University's Intensive Training Course. We hope to see you there!

RSVP: porch-time-auburn-2026.eventbrite.com

08/27/2026

Congratulations to Aubie on being voted Best College Mascot!
We've known this for a long time, but it's AUsome when he gets the national recognition he deserves. We ❤️ you Aubie!

I’d like to thank the Auburn family! So grateful for all your love and support!

08/26/2026

Since Jeremy Arthur was recently promoted to AU Outreach Assistant Vice President, we're looking for our next Director! Could it be you? Find out more and apply here https://jobs.auburn.edu/auburn-careers-home/jobs/9968?lang=en-us

08/24/2026

AU Outreach's Jeremy Arthur recently enjoyed "High Tea and a Taste of Seoul" at 1856-Culinary Residence with some of our Korean industry partners and friends from Auburn Outreach and the City of Opelika, Al - City Government, The event was hosted by Mr. Michael Park, President of Yongsan Automotive USA, and featured Korean small bites, street food, traditional tea, sweets and much more. Everything was delicious and the fellowship was wonderful.

08/21/2026

Main Street Alabama stresses public-private partnerships, broad community engagement, and strategies that create jobs, spark new investment, attract visitors, and spur growth. Main Street builds on the authentic history, culture, and attributes of specific places, to bring sustainable change. At its core, Main Street is an economic development tool that enhances a community's tax base, fosters entrepreneurship, builds community capacity, and creates partnerships among key community groups. Alabama has 36 Designated Main Street Alabama communities.

AU Outreach's Assistant Vice President Jeremy Arthur serves as Board Chairman of Main Street Alabama. He was proud to preside over the quarterly board meeting held in downtown Birmingham last week and to attend the state conference held in Enterprise this week. These events give business and community leaders opportunities to learn about current trends and share best practices for success.

08/19/2026

What a better welcome could our students get than having President Roberts and Aubie greet them or es**rt them to class?

08/17/2026

Alabama public sector human resources, risk management and payroll employees: We have professional development & certification programs to help you serve your community better & excel in your career! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mp0xMM5tEYw

Alabama League of Municipalities
Association of County Commissions of Alabama

GEDI provides professional development and certification programs d...