Berdetta Hodge has been a resident of the city of Tempe for over 40 years. She was raised in Tempe and had the privilege of raising her sons here, too. She is a graduate and parent of Tempe schools, a leader in Tempe charities, and a lifelong contributor to our city through public service and a passion for community-building.
Berdetta brings experience managing one of Arizona’s best school districts. In 2016, Berdetta made history, becoming the first African American woman elected to public office in the city of Tempe. She has served in leadership for the last three years as President and Vice President of the Tempe Union High School District Governing Board, where she has stood as a champion for the needs of students, educators, staff, and working families.
Running the school board entails more than just leading schools—it means operating community institutions responsible to tens of thousands of Tempe families and working with local businesses and governments to make Tempe the best place to work and learn in Arizona.
She has consistently been a voice for making smart financial investments in our students and educators, embracing and developing talent right here in the city of Tempe. She serves as a leader, working with local businesses and nonprofits to create partnerships and economic impact that make Tempe the ideal place to work, live, learn, and retire.
Berdetta Hodge has a strong working relationship with the mayors of Tempe, Phoenix, Mesa and other local and statewide leaders in Arizona.
Berdetta takes much pride in her two successful sons, Jevin and Jazin, both graduates of Tempe schools. Additionally, in her free time Berdetta volunteers with student groups in Tempe, such as the Compadre High School Teenage Pregnancy Program (TAPP), where she serves as a mentor and assists with community engagement efforts.
Additional leadership experiences:
- Vice President of the Booker T. Washington Child Development Center, the longest running Head Start school serving low-income and minority children and families in Arizona
- East Valley NAACP Leadership Team
- Las Brisas Homeowners Association board member, where she oversaw renovations and finances for a community of nearly 1,000 Tempe homeowners and renters.
- Board member for Save Our Schools Arizona
- Former board member of the Mesa Arts Center Foundation
- Former PTA/PTSA/Boosters President and parent for Tempe schools
- City of Tempe Youth and Family Services Board Member