Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 2, 2004
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Gov. Gary Locke Appoints New Communications Director

Gov. Gary Locke today named Sharon Wallace as communications director for the governor’s office. She was previously a deputy communications director in the office and has been acting communications director since April 26.

“I’m very pleased that Sharon Wallace has accepted this appointment as communications director,” Locke said. “She brings a strong communications background, varied public and private sector experience and a passion for our work on behalf of the people of Washington. Sharon is an excellent addition to my senior staff and I look forward to having someone of her caliber coordinate and manage our communications efforts.”

Prior to joining the governor’s office in January, Wallace, 36, served as communications director for the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED), where she served as the agency’s primary spokesperson and was responsible for communications planning, and media and public relations. CTED is the state’s lead agency charged with enhancing and promoting sustainable community and economic vitality throughout the state.

“I’m honored to serve the governor and the state in this role,” Wallace said. “I look forward to working with Governor Locke as he continues to work hard on key issues such as the development of the state’s priority-based budget, promoting Washington businesses and products in overseas markets, implementing civil service reform and collective bargaining with all state unions and making further progress on regulatory reform. This is a tremendous opportunity.”

Wallace received her bachelor’s degree from The Evergreen State College, and is a June 2005 candidate for her master’s in public administration at the University of Washington. She is a member of the International Association of Business Communicators and an active supporter of the South Sound YMCA and its youth programs.

Wallace will earn an annual salary of $85,000.

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