Decades of Service. One Vision for Tempe.

Berdetta Hodge is a proud 40+ year resident of Tempe, a mother, mentor, and changemaker who has dedicated her life to public service. A graduate of Tempe public schools and an alumna of Arizona State University, Berdetta has long been committed to uplifting her community and ensuring opportunity for all.
 

In 2016, Berdetta made history as the first African-American woman elected to public office in Tempe, winning a seat on the Tempe Union High School District Governing Board. She later served as both Board President and Vice President, leading one of Arizona’s highest-performing school districts with a focus on student success, teacher support, and community partnership.

In 2022, Berdetta made history again as the first African-American woman elected to the Tempe City Council, where she has continued her legacy of inclusive, results-driven leadership. Whether advocating for public safety, expanding access to digital infrastructure, or organizing community drives for food and school supplies, she has consistently delivered for Tempe’s families.

Berdetta has served on numerous boards and commissions, including the Arizona Commission of African American Affairs, the Maricopa Association of Governments Domestic Violence Council, and multiple committees with the National League of Cities. She is also Vice President of the Booker T. Washington Child Development Center and a leader within the East Valley NAACP.

Known for her approachability and action-oriented mindset, Berdetta maintains strong relationships with city, county, state, and federal leaders—and she brings those relationships back home to benefit Tempe.
In her free time, Berdetta volunteers with youth programs like TAPP (Teenage Pregnancy Program), mentors students, and serves with organizations including Habitat for Humanity, the Kiwanis Club, Tempe Woman’s Club, and For Our City.

Above all, Berdetta takes the most pride in being the mother of two sons—Jevin and Jazin—both of whom are graduates of Tempe schools and active community leaders.
Her vision is clear: a Tempe that works for everyone, where no one is left behind.