ATTACHMENT I QUESTIONNAIRE_ADE.pdf

Attachment I – Questionnaire

Solicitation No. BPM007007

In a maximum of two (2) paragraphs, provide a summary that illustrates the steps you would take to assist the State of Arizona in meeting its needs as stated in the Scope of Work of the solicitation.

To assist the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) in fulfilling the objectives outlined in the Scope of

Work, the Strongin Group will leverage the deep, bipartisan relationships we have cultivated across all key areas of the Arizona Capitol. Our firm brings a strong track record of strategic collaboration with ADE leadership to align on legislative priorities, develop policy solutions, and deliver measurable outcomes.

We will utilize our extensive experience and credibility with legislators, committee staff, and executive branch officials to advocate effectively for ADE’s mission. Our services will include real-time bill tracking and analysis, strategic policy guidance, drafting and negotiating amendments, preparing testimony, and facilitating targeted legislative and stakeholder meetings to advance ADE’s legislative and budgetary objectives.

The Strongin Group will maintain a visible and consistent presence at the Capitol, ensuring rapid response to emerging developments and providing ADE with timely, actionable intelligence throughout the legislative session. We will deliver tailored legislative briefings, dynamic bill tracking tools, and clear, persuasive messaging materials to support informed decision-making by ADE leadership. Our commitment to providing the full-time equivalent of two dedicated professionals ensures seamless execution of all responsibilities, while our familiarity with Arizona’s education policy landscape positions us to act with integrity, agility, and strategic precision. As a trusted partner to ADE with a proven record of securing impactful legislation and funding victories, the Strongin Group stands ready to provide consistent, results-driven representation that supports and elevates the department’s vision of raising academic outcomes and empowering Arizona families.

Describe the Offeror’s approach to developing and maintaining effective relationships with external governmental entities pursuant to Section 3.1 of the Scope of Work. How will these relationships support ADE’s vision of raising academic outcomes and empowering parents?

The Strongin Group’s approach to developing and maintaining effective relationships with external governmental entities is rooted in proactive engagement, consistent communication, and strategic alignment with ADE’s vision. We begin by identifying key stakeholders at the Legislature, Governor’s

Office, local governments, and relevant state agencies whose actions directly or indirectly influence education policy. Leveraging our existing relationships across these institutions, we foster ongoing, trust-based communication channels to ensure ADE’s goals—particularly around academic achievement and parental empowerment—are clearly understood, supported, and advanced in policymaking conversations.

We will serve as both a bridge and amplifier for ADE’s priorities, ensuring that decision-makers are equipped with timely data, real-world impact stories, and policy context that reinforce the department’s mission. By participating in stakeholder workgroups, convening policy briefings, and maintaining a visible presence in education-related discussions, we position ADE as a thought leader and collaborative partner. This network-building approach helps create a unified front in support of elevating academic standards and expanding parental choice, enabling ADE to influence outcomes while building goodwill and sustained policy momentum.

Describe the Offeror’s knowledge of and experience with ADE’s legislative agenda pursuant to Section 3.2 of the Scope of Work. In your response, include specific examples of past work involving ADE legislative priorities, policy development, and strategic guidance and policy analysis aligned with ADE’s legislative priorities.

The Strongin Group brings extensive, hands-on experience advancing the Arizona Department of Education’s (ADE) legislative agenda, built on years of trusted collaboration with ADE officials, legislative leaders, and education stakeholders. Our team is deeply familiar with ADE’s internal policy development and government relations processes, having supported the department across multiple sessions to shape and implement legislation aligned with its priorities. We have worked closely with the Superintendent’s Office and policy staff on initiatives related to Career and Technical Education (CTE), special education funding, school finance, parental empowerment, and campus safety. A standout example of our impact is our leadership in the successful passage of the most comprehensive school safety legislation in

Arizona in the past 25 years—a bipartisan achievement that required detailed policy design, stakeholder consensus-building, and strategic legislative execution. In addition, we have provided guidance on the evolution of the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, ensuring that messaging and legislative positioning aligned with ADE’s mission to empower families. We also understand the critical role of federal education programs and funding streams, such as Title I and Title II, and how they intersect with state policy and legislative strategy. This consistent, results-driven support underscores our deep understanding of the department’s goals and our proven capacity to advance high-impact education policy in

Arizona.

Describe how the Offeror will represent and advocate for ADE’s interests with lawmakers and stakeholders, particularly on matters related to the state budget and legislative bills pursuant to

Section 3.3 of the Scope of Work.

The Strongin Group will represent and advocate for the Arizona Department of Education’s (ADE) interests with lawmakers and stakeholders by taking a proactive, data-informed, and relationship-driven approach. On matters related to the state budget, we will work in close coordination with ADE leadership to identify key funding priorities, prepare persuasive briefing materials, and engage directly with members of the Legislature, the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC), and the Governor’s

Office to ensure those priorities are clearly communicated and supported throughout the budgeting process. Our team will monitor committee hearings, fiscal discussions, and stakeholder feedback in real time to respond swiftly and strategically as the budget evolves.

For legislative bills, we will serve as ADE’s voice at the Capitol—testifying in committee hearings, drafting and negotiating bill language, and organizing support or opposition through coalition-building and strategic outreach. We are equally skilled in stopping or reshaping harmful legislation in a politically nuanced manner that preserves critical relationships while safeguarding ADE’s interests. By using diplomatic engagement and quiet influence, we are able to mitigate threats without escalating conflict.

We will also provide timely bill summaries, talking points, and vote tracking reports to keep ADE leadership fully informed and equipped to act. Leveraging our longstanding credibility and access at the

Capitol, the Strongin Group will ensure ADE’s positions are clearly represented, its priorities advanced, and its leadership role in Arizona’s education system consistently reinforced in all legislative and budget-related discussions.

Describe how the Offeror will serve as a liaison between ADE and the Arizona Legislature, as well as with other assigned entities such as federal agencies, state agencies, and nonprofit organizations pursuant to Section 3.4 of the Scope of Work. What strategies will be used to ensure effective communication and coordination?

The Strongin Group will serve as a dedicated liaison between the Arizona Department of Education

(ADE) and external entities by utilizing a disciplined, transparent, and relationship-centered strategy to ensure consistent communication and coordination. With the Arizona Legislature, we will provide real-time legislative updates, facilitate meetings between ADE leadership and key lawmakers, and serve as the primary point of contact for questions, negotiations, or clarifications related to ADE’s priorities. Our role will also include monitoring and attending relevant hearings, arranging testimony, and maintaining ongoing dialogue with legislative staff to keep ADE’s initiatives visible and well-positioned.

Beyond the Legislature, we will extend this same level of coordination to federal and state agencies, nonprofit partners, school districts, charter organizations, and any other assigned entities. We have experience working closely with both district and charter stakeholders to align messaging, clarify policy impacts, and build coalitions that strengthen statewide implementation efforts. This includes organizing interagency working groups, policy roundtables, and stakeholder engagement sessions to align priorities, address challenges, and identify collaborative opportunities. We will implement regular communication touchpoints, such as weekly briefings and stakeholder bulletins, and utilize shared digital tools for real-time updates and tracking. This coordinated, responsive approach ensures that ADE remains informed, engaged, and influential across all levels of government and its broad network of external partners.

Describe the methods the Offeror will use to identify, track, and analyze proposed legislation and policy developments that may impact ADE pursuant to Section 3.5 of the Scope of Work.

The Strongin Group will employ a structured, data-informed system to identify, track, and analyze proposed legislation and policy developments that could impact the Arizona Department of Education

(ADE). We will utilize professional-grade legislative tracking tools to monitor all introduced bills, amendments, and budget provisions, including a comprehensive review of all K–12-related legislation— regardless of origin—to ensure ADE is fully protected from potentially harmful or unintended policy consequences. This process will include the development of a customized bill tracking matrix tailored to

ADE’s core program areas such as school finance, academic standards, special education, and parental choice, ensuring no critical developments are overlooked.

In addition to daily bill monitoring, we will provide real-time policy analysis and impact assessments to support ADE’s internal decision-making and public engagement strategies. This includes preparing concise policy briefs, fiscal notes, and risk assessments that outline both the strategic implications and technical details of proposed legislation. We also maintain regular communication with legislative staff and agency liaisons to gain early insights on political dynamics, stakeholder positions, and behind-the-scenes shifts. Importantly, while our work is grounded in data and analysis, we recognize that successful advocacy often requires more than numbers—it requires the human element. Drawing on years of political experience, we know when to elevate compelling stories from Arizona students, families, and educators—often through targeted media articles or committee testimony—to connect emotionally with lawmakers and reinforce ADE’s policy goals. This blend of technical expertise, legislative intelligence, and narrative strategy ensures ADE is positioned to anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and lead with credibility and impact at every stage of the legislative process.

Describe the Offeror’s experience and approach to representing clients at legislative meetings, hearings, and public forums pursuant to Section 3.6 of the Scope of Work. How will you ensure ADE’s interests and positions are effectively communicated?

The Strongin Group brings extensive experience representing clients in high-stakes legislative meetings, committee hearings, and public forums at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. Our approach is rooted in thorough preparation, trusted relationships, and message consistency. Prior to each engagement, we work closely with agency leadership to craft clear, evidence-based talking points, anticipate counterarguments, and ensure advocacy efforts align with the department’s overarching goals. We have successfully represented state agencies, education coalitions, and major policy initiatives across a range of settings—from appropriations hearings to complex education reform discussions—frequently influencing legislative outcomes through a combination of persuasive testimony and strategic, behind-the-scenes negotiation. A distinct strength of our firm is our ability to create high-quality, customized advocacy materials on an accelerated timeline. From policy briefs and fact sheets to talking points and legislative one-pagers, we produce compelling content quickly—often faster than competing firms— giving our clients a critical edge during fast-moving legislative debates.

To ensure ADE’s interests and priorities are effectively communicated, we tailor each engagement to the specific audience and policy context, whether testifying before a legislative committee, briefing individual lawmakers, or participating in stakeholder forums. We operate within a disciplined messaging framework that ensures all public and private communications reinforce ADE’s vision of raising academic outcomes and empowering parents. Following each meeting or appearance, we deliver timely debriefs and recommended next steps to sustain momentum and inform future advocacy. Our reputation for professionalism, integrity, rapid execution, and policy fluency ensures that ADE’s voice will be respected, strategically positioned, and clearly heard in every venue where key decisions are made.

Describe how the Offeror will ensure that ADE’s official positions and perspectives are clearly and accurately conveyed to legislators, agencies, and other stakeholders pursuant to Section 3.7 of the

Scope of Work.

The Strongin Group will ensure that the Arizona Department of Education’s (ADE) official positions and perspectives are clearly and accurately communicated by implementing a disciplined, coordinated communication strategy grounded in ongoing consultation with ADE leadership. Prior to engaging with legislators, agencies, or external stakeholders, we will confirm alignment on messaging through regular check-ins and strategic planning sessions with ADE’s Government Relations and Policy teams. This process ensures that all external communications consistently reflect the department’s most current priorities, language, and policy direction.

We will deliver ADE’s positions through tailored advocacy materials—including policy briefs, talking points, and legislative summaries—crafted to resonate with the unique concerns and language of each audience. Whether in formal hearings, private meetings, or informal discussions, we will represent ADE with professionalism, clarity, and consistency, reinforcing agency goals and maintaining message discipline. Our team will also maintain a regular in-person presence within the ADE building to ensure seamless communication, rapid coordination, and immediate availability to staff and leadership. This on-site accessibility strengthens internal alignment without detracting from the critical external work—at the Capitol, with stakeholders, and in the field—that is essential to successful advocacy. After each engagement, we will provide timely debriefs and incorporate feedback to refine messaging, ensuring communications remain accurate, responsive, and strategically aligned across all platforms.

Describe the Offeror’s plan for working with designated ADE staff, including attending meetings and providing updates pursuant to Section 3.8 of the Scope of Work.

The Strongin Group will maintain a collaborative and responsive working relationship with designated

Arizona Department of Education (ADE) staff by establishing a consistent meeting schedule and clear communication protocols. We will attend all requested meetings—both in-person and virtual—with ADE staff, using these touchpoints to deliver timely insights on legislative activity, policy developments, and emerging stakeholder dynamics. Prior to each meeting, we will prepare and share relevant briefing materials, including bill summaries, fiscal impact assessments, and recommended action steps to facilitate informed decision-making. We understand the importance of working closely with ADE’s internal teams and subject matter experts (SMEs), and we specialize in distilling complex legislative proposals into clear, actionable items that allow for efficient feedback, accurate technical guidance, and alignment across divisions.

Beyond scheduled meetings, our team will remain readily available for real-time consultation as issues arise, ensuring ADE can act quickly and strategically in response to legislative developments or policy shifts. During the legislative session, we will provide weekly written updates, with additional reporting during interim periods as needed, summarizing key bill movements, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy progress. This integrated, hands-on approach ensures ADE staff are consistently informed, well-supported, and positioned to execute their responsibilities in full alignment with the department’s vision and policy objectives. All reporting required under the RFP and by ADE—including summaries of legislative activity, bill tracking updates, meeting documentation, and strategic recommendations—will be completed thoroughly and submitted on time.

Describe the Offeror’s approach to responding to inquiries from ADE leadership and staff pursuant to

Section 3.9 of the Scope of Work. How will you ensure timely and comprehensive status updates?

The Strongin Group is committed to providing prompt, accurate, and comprehensive responses to all inquiries from ADE leadership and staff. From the outset of the contract, we will establish clear communication protocols, including preferred contact methods, designated points of contact, and defined response timeframes—typically within the same business day for most inquiries. We maintain open lines of communication via email, phone, and text, with rapid responsiveness during key legislative moments or urgent developments.

To ensure ADE remains fully informed, we will deliver regular status updates summarizing legislative activities, progress of key bills, stakeholder engagement, and upcoming hearings or deadlines. These updates will be provided in both written and verbal formats, depending on ADE’s preference, and will include strategic analysis and actionable insights. In urgent or time-sensitive situations, we will issue real-time alerts with clear recommendations. Importantly, many of these communication and reporting systems have already been developed and refined by the Strongin Group through our prior work with

ADE. As a result, the department benefits immediately from a seamless transition, institutional knowledge, and continued use of proven tools and workflows—ensuring timely, strategic, and informed decision-making from day one.

Describe the Offeror’s plan that demonstrates how you will fulfill the requirement to provide personnel equivalent to two (2) full-time employees pursuant to Section 3.10 of the Scope of Work.

Include roles and responsibilities

The Strongin Group will fulfill the requirement to provide personnel equivalent to two (2) full-time employees by assigning a dedicated team of two senior partners who bring complementary expertise in government relations, education policy, and legislative advocacy. These two professionals work in full partnership—without hierarchy—ensuring that ADE receives the benefit of equal leadership, accountability, and capacity across all areas of the contract. Both partners will collaborate closely on day-to-day advocacy, direct legislative engagement, strategic planning with ADE leadership, and the development of policy materials that advance the department’s priorities.

Having two full-time professionals assigned to ADE is a strategic advantage, particularly during peak legislative periods when hearings, stakeholder meetings, and floor activity often occur simultaneously.

This structure allows us to split responsibilities efficiently without compromising quality, ensuring uninterrupted coverage and responsiveness. Each partner takes ownership of key tasks, including attending hearings, conducting outreach, preparing testimony, tracking legislation, coordinating with

ADE staff, and developing timely briefing materials. Our team’s unique makeup—blending legislative experience, education policy fluency, and a deep understanding of Arizona’s political landscape— enables us to provide the high-level, full-time support ADE needs to succeed in a fast-moving environment.

Describe the Offeror’s internal policies and procedures in place that ensures the work performed for

ADE will be free of any conflicts of interest pursuant to Section 3.11 of the Scope of Work.

The Strongin Group maintains strict internal policies and procedures to ensure that all work performed for the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) is free of conflicts of interest. Upon execution of the contract, all team members assigned to the ADE account will be required to sign a conflict-of-interest disclosure and acknowledgment form affirming their exclusive commitment to ADE’s priorities and agreeing to refrain from representing or engaging with clients whose interests may materially conflict with those of the department. We conduct thorough internal reviews of existing and prospective client engagements to identify and resolve any potential conflicts before they arise.

Additionally, we maintain a centralized client tracking system and conduct quarterly compliance audits to proactively monitor alignment with conflict-of-interest policies. If a potential conflict emerges, it is immediately escalated to our firm’s leadership for review, and, if necessary, we will implement mitigation strategies or withdraw from the competing engagement. These safeguards ensure that our representation of ADE remains objective, undivided, and fully aligned with the department’s mission and best interests throughout the duration of the contract.

Describe how the Offeror will ensure compliance with Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-1231 et seq. for all individuals performing services under this contract pursuant to Section 3.12 of the Scope of Work.

The Strongin Group will ensure full compliance with Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-1231 et seq. by maintaining active and accurate lobbyist registrations for all individuals performing services under this agreement. Prior to the commencement of any work, we will confirm that all designated personnel are properly registered with the Arizona Secretary of State as principal and authorized lobbyists representing the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). We will also ensure that all reporting obligations—including expenditure reports, activity logs, and updates—are submitted completely, correctly, and on time in accordance with statutory requirements.

Our firm has a flawless record of compliance in this area, as ADE is well aware through our past engagements. To uphold that standard, we conduct regular internal audits of lobbying activities and maintain a secure, centralized recordkeeping system to monitor all documentation and reporting requirements. Any changes in personnel, scope of work, or lobbying activities are promptly reported to the Secretary of State to ensure full transparency and adherence to the law. The Strongin Group takes compliance seriously and will continue to ensure that all lobbying activities conducted on behalf of ADE are lawful, ethical, and fully aligned with both state regulations and the department’s expectations.

Describe how the Offeror will remain flexible and responsive to additional duties pursuant to Section

3.13 of the Scope of Work. Provide examples of how the Offeror has adapted to evolving client needs in past engagements.

The Strongin Group prides itself on its flexibility, responsiveness, and ability to adapt quickly to shifting legislative and political dynamics. A strong example of this is our work with the Arizona Department of

Education (ADE) on late-session bill introductions—when timelines are compressed, procedural hurdles are significant, and traditional pathways may no longer be available. In these high-pressure moments, we work closely with ADE leadership to craft innovative legislative strategies, identify procedural opportunities, and build rapid, targeted support from key lawmakers and stakeholders. Our team is known for pushing the creative boundaries of the legislative process—navigating complex rules, tight deadlines, and political constraints to secure critical wins for our clients.

Whether it’s identifying the right bill vehicle, negotiating last-minute amendments, or rallying support through behind-the-scenes advocacy, we consistently find ways to move high-priority legislation forward, even when traditional routes are limited. This ability to deliver under pressure—rooted in deep procedural knowledge, strong relationships, and strategic execution—demonstrates our commitment to advancing ADE’s priorities regardless of complexity or timing.

Experience, Capability, and Reliability

Describe the Offeror’s experience providing government relations of lobbying services particularly in

Arizona. Include examples of the scope of services provided and measurable outcomes achieved.

The Strongin Group brings extensive experience providing government relations and lobbying services in

Arizona, with a proven record of delivering results for public agencies, including the Arizona Department of Education (ADE). Our team has established and maintained strong, bipartisan relationships across the

Legislative, Executive, and agency branches of government, which we strategically apply to support and advance our clients’ legislative and policy objectives. ADE is familiar with the effectiveness of our approach, having seen success through several key legislative initiatives we have led on their behalf.

The Strongin Group played a lead role in the passage of the most comprehensive school safety legislation in Arizona in the last 25 years, supported the enactment of a school finance bill that improved district-level funding, and secured significant legislative appropriations to enhance ADE’s operations and statewide education programs. These outcomes reflect not only our advocacy capabilities but also our ability to interpret political dynamics, assess procedural options, and apply practical strategies based on years of experience in Arizona’s policymaking environment. This background positions our team to continue providing high-quality, informed representation aligned with ADE’s legislative priorities.

Describe a time the Offeror had to quickly adapt to a legislative or political change.

A recent example that illustrates the Strongin Group’s ability to quickly adapt to legislative and political change occurred during a critical phase of state budget negotiations, when unexpected shifts in priorities at the Capitol placed several of the Arizona Department of Education’s (ADE) key budget items at risk. These appropriations were vital to sustaining core agency operations and advancing statewide education initiatives. In response, our team mobilized immediately—demonstrating the flexibility, responsiveness, and strategic creativity that are central to our approach. We worked closely with ADE leadership and subject matter experts (SMEs) to refine messaging, ensure technical accuracy, and align communications with the department’s operational and policy needs.

We then secured urgent meetings with key lawmakers and influential budget staff, developing customized briefing materials tailored to each audience’s policy priorities and political context. These included data-informed summaries, district-specific impact analyses, and targeted talking points that aligned with broader legislative goals. By combining long-standing relationships with rapid, strategic execution, we successfully secured the appropriations—totaling millions of dollars—for ADE. This outcome not only reflects our ability to perform under pressure but also highlights the core capabilities

ADE seeks in a government relations partner: strategic adaptability, effective communication, technical accuracy, and strong collaboration with internal agency experts.

Provide resumes that identify the key individuals who will be assigned to this contract.

(Attached)

At least three (3) verifiable professional references must be provided regarding services provided by the Offeror similar to those required under this Solicitation. (The Offeror should use the designated

Attachment.) Please note: it is the responsibility of the Offeror to choose references that are willing to respond to ADE’s request for references. The failure of a reference to respond may negatively impact the consideration of your offer. Also, do not use any ADE employee, officer or agent as a reference.

(Attached in Attachment II)

In a maximum of two (2) pages, provide a summary narrative of your firm’s experience and expertise relative to meeting the Scope of Work requirements specified in this solicitation. The entire solicitation response will be evaluated in addition to your response to this question.

The Strongin Group offers extensive expertise and a proven track record in delivering government relations services to public agencies, with a particular depth of experience supporting the Arizona

Department of Education (ADE). Our firm has consistently advanced client legislative priorities by building trusted relationships with lawmakers, executive agencies, and education stakeholders across all levels of state government. For ADE, we have played a central role in the passage of Arizona’s most comprehensive school safety legislation in the past 25 years, supported critical school finance reforms that strengthened district funding structures, and secured millions of dollars in appropriations to sustain and expand agency operations. These results reflect not only our advocacy strength, but also our ability to navigate complex political environments, communicate effectively across stakeholder groups, and deliver solutions aligned with agency objectives.

To meet the full scope of work, the Strongin Group will assign two senior-level professionals—the equivalent of two full-time employees—who bring complementary expertise in legislative strategy, policy analysis, and communications. This structure allows us to ensure seamless coverage, responsiveness during peak session activity, and the ability to split workstreams while maintaining quality and continuity. We will provide ongoing written and verbal updates, attend all required meetings, and remain accessible to ADE staff for urgent needs and real-time consultation. Our approach includes the use of tailored bill tracking systems, real-time strategic guidance, and clear, coordinated messaging. We are fully compliant with all lobbying registration and reporting requirements under A.R.S.

§ 41-1231 et seq., and we maintain strong internal controls to prevent conflicts of interest. The Strongin

Group’s deep understanding of ADE’s internal processes, combined with our broader success on behalf of other public sector clients, positions us to continue delivering high-impact representation that supports academic outcomes, safeguards agency resources, and empowers families across Arizona.

Camilla Strongin Phoenix, AZ 85007

602-574-8878 || Cstrongin@gmail.com linkedin.com/in/camilla-strongin1

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Objective: Experienced public affairs professional with an extensive background in strategic lobbying, public relations and community engagement. Seeking the position of xxx to leverage my experience in analyzing programs, policies and organization structures for the development and implementation of effective legislative strategies.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy, January 2024 — Present Arizona Department of Education

• Develop K-12 public policy and overall policy development and legislative strategy for $12 billion state agency

• Garner bipartisan support and consensus to pass legislation with macro view of public policy and micro awareness of legislators’ viewpoints, and constituency and caucus influences

• Create legislative agenda for both 2024 and 2025 sessions, in collaboration with internal stakeholders:

o school safety, phone-free schools, student discipline to increase teacher retention, mandatory holocaust and other genocide education, graduation requirements, and Teacher’s Bill of Rights

• Develop advocacy strategies to collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to support legislative initiatives

• Identify annual budgetary requirements for general appropriations and create narrative to support request to Governor; if approved, work with appropriation chairs and relevant committees

• Meet with key policymakers to identify legislative champions to sponsor bills while gathering support from stakeholder groups

• Track and analyze other draft legislation that potentially impacts the department and provide strategies to create synergy or evaluate risks; create weekly brief to collaborate with executive team

• Attend and testify during Education Standing Committee hearings in House and Senate as subject matter expert or identify other experts to testify, as needed

• Cultivate strong relationships to intervene on matters impacting passage by identifying historical bias of both detractors and supporters

• Lobby legislators and meet with influential staff to gauge viewpoints and caucus influence on specific aspects of bills and modify legislation to build bipartisan support and consensus to obtain votes for passage

• Mentor, provide structural and scheduling framework, and supervise Deputy Director

Market Hill 1805, LLC dates Waterford, VA

· Worked closely with Virginia Department of Historic Resources and Loudon county regulatory officials to obtain approval and permitting for renovation of historic property located in Village of Waterford

The Farm at Cedar Mountain, LLC dates Rapidan, VA

--Collaborated with local stakeholders and county officials for the implementation of Virginia Agritourism statute

· Successfully lobbied members of Congress on behalf of The American Battlefield Trust resulting in $18 MM of funding through for the American Battlefield Protection Program

· Worked with local and state official to assist in garnering legislative approval of the Cedar Mountain Battlefield and Brandy Station Battlefield State Park

· Advocated on behalf of American Farmland Trust on legislative activities impacting farmers in the Commonwealth of Virginia as it pertained to agritourism activities for family farmers

The Symington Group/Founding Partner dates Phoenix, AZ --Co-founded public affairs consulting firm focused on state and federal issues and advocacy in the areas of bioscience, healthcare, renewable energy, education, and technology for defense industry

• Lobbied state and federal policymakers on behalf of clients such as Banner Health, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Kutta Consulting, and Covance --Crafted brand messaging and served as corporate spokesperson

• Successfully managed Steve Pierce for Senate campaign, and raised in excess of $800,000 for Arizona Victory Fund to elect pro-business candidates to Arizona House and Senate

Public Information Officer United States Attorney’s Office - District of Arizona, Phoenix, AZ add dates

• Spokesperson dealing with high-profile federal prosecution cases such as Rodeo-Chediski fire

• Drafted communication and provided direct assistance with issues related to media response for Assistant US Attorney, Paul Charlton

• Chairman for Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee composed of all state and local law enforcement spokespeople

Public Information Officer Arizona Department of Corrections, Phoenix, AZ add dates

• Spokesperson addressing prominent issues, such as prison breaks, funding shortfalls, executions, and prolific gang membership

• Created transparency in reporting and storytelling within Arizona prison system. Built media relationships, conducted press conferences, created press releases, and appeared in on-camera interviews, and where appropriate, with wardens and executive staff --Liaison to governor’s office --Created new relationships with legislators, wrote legislative briefings, and facilitated tours for all state prisons to highlight the need for adequate funding

• Provided media training to Director’s staff, wardens, and key personnel with the department

EDUCATION

B.A., University of Arizona, Business Administration, Tucson, Arizona Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, Los Angeles, California

PRIOR TO 2000 Arizona Department of Economic Security/Public Information Officer Phoenix, AZ

• Served as departmental spokesperson dealing with all media issues related to Child Protective Services, Adult and Aging and Disabled Persons.

BOBBY BRAVO III

BobbyBravo003@gmail.com | 35 E Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 | 602.571.7507

WORK EXPERIENCE

Arizona Department of Education – Phoenix, AZ

Deputy Director, Government Relations & Public Policy January 2023- Present

• Responsible for the development of the department’s legislative agenda, serves as the designated public lobbyist on legislative and agency initiatives and coordinates the implementation of state law and agency rules at the direction of ADE’s leadership team.

• Monitors all legislative proceedings and seeks input from the appropriate ADE program personnel to best represent the department’s position on legislative and regulatory proposals.

• Provides oversight and coordinates all government relations and public policy activities with the Government Relations and Legislative

Affairs Legislative Assistant.

• Serves as the point of contact on legislative and regulatory matters and will communicate ADE’s interests with various federal, state and local leaders, stakeholders and advocates on education policy matters.

U.S. House of Representatives, Congresswoman Debbie Lesko (AZ-08) – Washington, D.C.

Legislative Assistant

November 2018 – January 2023

• Manage all responsibility for the Congresswoman in her role on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce.

• Manage legislative activity related to consumer protection, immigration, cybersecurity, housing, and science space & tech.

• Develop and create legislative solutions to issues facing constituents and policy priorities for the member.

• Liaise with constituent, business, and trade groups as a representative of the member.

• Responsible for the passage of H.R. 6016, the Marc Lee Memorial Post Office Building, which was signed into law in the 116th

Congress.

• Manage day-to-day office administration including inventory, technology, staff onboarding, and other systems.

• Oversee multiple office interns per session and direct the office internship program.

• Volunteer time to assist member’s campaign and staff member at fundraising events.

Legislative Correspondent April 2018 – November 2018

• Managed active office mail operation including intake, processing, and response for an average of 2,000 pieces of correspondence per week.

• Distributed a weekly e-newsletter to constituents and maintained constituent contact database in IQ.

• Worked with legislative staff to maintain a proactive constituent outreach program.

• Wrote correspondence pertaining to incoming constituent messages.

Summit Group Consulting – Tempe, Arizona Field Director December 2017 – May 2018

• Managed the front office of a fast-paced public affairs firm servicing corporations, associations, and political candidates.

• Oversaw scheduling for principals and assisted with other personal and administrative tasks.

• Handled all office technology needs and maintained office equipment and inventory.

• Implemented a successful special election grassroots campaign across Arizona’s 8th Congressional District.

• Organized volunteers and interns for door to door outreach, phone banking, and Election Day poll monitoring.

Arizona State Senate, Former Senator Debbie Lesko (LD 21) – Phoenix, Arizona Executive Assistant December 2014 – December 2017

• Managed scheduling and travel for all official and unofficial events attended by the member.

• Oversaw the member’s technology needs including acquisition of hardware and maintenance of security systems.

• Handled all confidential and sensitive materials for the member, as well as personal files and correspondence.

• Tracked member legislation and developed daily reports on the status of the member’s legislative priorities.

• Directed member social media accounts and developed engaging content.

EDUCATION

Arizona State University – Tempe, Arizona M.S. in Justice and Social Inquiry June 2016 B.S. in Justice Studies May 2014

Barrett, The Honors College; GPA: 3.7, Magna Cum Laude mailto:BobbyBravo003@gmail.com