Laken Chaney Gudzak
Laken Chaney Gudzak is the Director of Marketing and Communications for Downtown Vision, the Business Improvement District for Downtown Jacksonville. A Jacksonville native, Laken brings years of hands-on experience in strategic marketing, digital content creation and public relations. She leads DVI’s communications strategy, driving marketing and PR efforts to position Downtown as a vibrant place to live, work, visit and invest.
Laken plays a key role in promoting DVI’s signature monthly and seasonal events, including First Wednesday Art Walk and Third Thursday Sip & Stroll Presented by PNC Bank. She has also legend taken part in several successful campaigns such as Jax River Jams Presented by VyStar Credit Union, Jax River Jams After Dark, the Riverwalk To-Go Cup Program, Jazz Fest After Dark, the DTJax e-Gift Card program, the NextStep Ambassador fundraising campaign, the rebrand of Downtown’s Nightlife District and the announcement of PlacemakingJax’s presenting sponsor—among others.
She oversees DVI’s digital ecosystem, managing DTJax.com and its microsites, curating content for @DTJax, @theelbowjax, and the Downtown Dwellers across social media platforms, and analyzing performance data to guide strategy. In addition, Laken directs print production, advertising and graphic design, while managing press outreach, media relations and PR agency partnerships. Her efforts ensure consistent, strategic messaging that elevates Downtown Jacksonville’s visibility locally and regionally.
A proud graduate of the University of North Florida, Laken holds a B.S. in Communication with a focus in Public Relations. She is passionate about storytelling, community-building and championing the growth of Downtown Jacksonville.
Outside of her work at Downtown Vision, Laken is a member of the Riverside Avondale Community Garden, co-founder of the local women’s walking group Walking Riverside, and enjoys exploring Florida and visiting National Parks.
Affiliations
Downtown Dwellers, Communications Committee
International Downtown Association, Member
Leadership Jacksonville Next Generation 2023
Urban Land Institute, Member