Jones names Hawley as new press secretary

-- Richmond Mayor Dwight C. Jones has named Tammy D. Hawley as his press secretary.

Hawley is president and founder of The Hawley Group, a Richmond-based firm specializing in project management, community relations and event planning.

The company has handled projects for the city's Department of Social Services and Office of Minority Business Development, but Hawley said it will be inactive while she works full time under Jones.

"I like his leadership style," she said. "I'm excited about the time where we are with the city."

Hawley previously worked as chief operating officer of the NAACP, executive general manager of Afro-American Newspapers Co., and in legislative posts in Washington, including as chief of staff to former U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume of Maryland.

"Tammy Hawley's substantial experience in the public and private sector will serve the city well," Jones said yesterday in a news release. "She will provide a comprehensive approach to city communications that will help our services and our messages." Her appointment follows last week's announcements of Suzette P. Denslow as chief of staff and David M. Hicks as senior policy analyst.

Hawley will start work on Monday and will be paid $103,000 annually. She replaces Linwood Norman, who served as press secretary to Mayor L. Douglas Wilder.

Hawley, a Richmond native, attended John Marshall High School and has a bachelor of science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University's School of Business. She also received leadership training at Indiana University.
Contact Will Jones at (804) 649-6911 or .