The Ames Regional Economic Alliance appointed Jennifer Luengas-Otto as director of economic development on Feb. 2. In her new role, she will lead Story County outreach and serve as executive director of the Nevada Economic Development Council, supporting business growth and community development across the region. Luengas-Otto previously helped launch a multi-county entrepreneurship initiative in West Central Iowa and was part of the first national cohort of the Economic Recovery Corps led by the International Economic Development Council. Her background includes work in community banking and real estate lending, as well as extensive involvement in local volunteer and civic efforts.