Communications Office Staff

WHO WE ARE

The Communications team is tasked with telling the stories of City of Victoria, Texas local government, gathering and distributing information to keep residents informed about city policies, programs, services and neighborhoods. If you want to watch your city leaders in action, but can't make it down to City Hall, we air City Council meetings, amongst other public meetings, live on TV and on the web (our website and YouTube). We are always planning and collaborating with City leaders, departments and outside organizations to make sure residents, businesses and visitors of Victoria understand what is happening in Victoria city government and how it affects their lives.

Ashley Strevel,

Director of Communications & Public Affairs

As director of the Communications & Public Affairs department, Strevel is responsible for leading public communication strategies, crisis communications, media relations, community affairs, and the development of strategic messaging for all city departments. The city’s communications department serves as a hub for other city communications with the goal of promoting accessibility for the community using all forms of communication platforms. Prior to joining the City, Strevel was a communications manager in higher education. She enjoys spending time with her husband and children and contributing to her community and church family.

Sam Hankins, Communications Specialist

Sam is responsible for writing and publishing internal and external communications to our staff, media, and the public, including news releases, blogs, columns, newsletters, and other content. Sam works with each department to help draft and edit written content and determine opportunities to publish news to the media, promote achievements, and distribute relevant information to the public in a timely manner. Prior to joining the City, Sam worked as a copy editor for print publications. In her spare time, she enjoys acting and writing for theatre, and she is pursuing an online master’s degree in Spanish translation and interpretation.

George Partida, Videographer

George is responsible for working with the Communications & Public Affairs director in collaboration with other departments, community partners, and vendors to produce quality media projects to educate citizens about the activities and services of the City. This role manages the City of Victoria municipal television channel, TV15, including the production of its original content. George manages and creates audio podcasts, radio programs, and other creative video outlets. Prior to joining the City, George worked for Faith Family Church as its media and television director. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and church family.

Lauren Meaux, Public Safety Community Affairs Manager

Prior to this newly restructured position, Lauren was a records supervisor for the Police Department. Now, she is a liaison between the two public safety departments – Police and Fire – and the City’s Communication & Public Affairs team. She will help support Police and Fire to ensure communication and community affairs needs are being fulfilled. In her spare time, she enjoys the outdoors while spending time with her family, working in the yard or exercising.