A former Miss Rodeo America has taken over the reins of an economic development group in her hometown.

Ashley Andrews, who was Miss Rodeo North Dakota and then Miss Rodeo America in 2007, has been named executive director of the Bowman County Development Corporation. Her hiring was announced Thursday.

Andrews spent the past year speaking on behalf of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, traveling across the country to promote events. Prior to that she worked as the financial manager for the North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party.

"Ashley brings extensive communications, sales and financial experience to the position," said Chuck Steffan, president of the EDC board of directors. "In addition, she holds a wealth of local, state and national political contacts through her work with North Dakota politics. Those contacts will be beneficial to the future development of Bowman County's economy."

Andrews completed her term as Miss Rodeo America during the National Finals Rodeo held in Las Vegas last month. She is completing her public-relations degree from the University of Mary online.

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to come back home and work closely with new and existing business owners, industry representatives and healthcare and education officials within the county," Andrews said. "It is an exciting time to live and work here, and I am ready to get started."