OCTOBER 6, 2011

LANSING - Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today announced the appointment of Gisgie Dávila Gendreau as Michigan Department of State communications director.

"Gisgie's unique background in government and strategic communications will help the department meet its goals of improving customer service while cutting costs and safeguarding election integrity," Johnson said. "We are very pleased to have someone with her wealth of experience join our team. She will be a valuable asset in communicating all of our initiatives to streamline and strengthen our operations."

Most recently, Gendreau served as marketing and public relations director for the Michigan Department of Human Services. Previously, she also provided communications guidance for the Michigan Department of Information Technology and Michigan State University.

Gendreau earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from Michigan State University and spent a decade as a journalist for the Booth Newspapers capitol bureau and the Lansing State Journal. She brings a strong background of strategic communications and partnership development in the education, nonprofit and government sectors.

As communications director, she oversees the Michigan Department of State's internal and external communications, publications, public relations and media relations functions, and marketing initiatives.

Gendreau and her husband, Tony, live in Holt with their three children.

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For media questions, please call Gisgie Dávila Gendreau at 517-373-2520.