Home Our Poder The White House Welcomes Two New Brilliant Latinas to Its Communication Team 

The White House Welcomes Two New Brilliant Latinas to Its Communication Team 

The White House Welcomes Two New Brilliant Latinas to Its Communication Team 
Credit: SPSA and LinkedIn

According to Zippia, only 14 percent of White House employees are Hispanic. Considering that the Hispanic/Latino community is about to become the largest demographic in the United States, the proper representation of our community in all spaces is a must. Nevertheless, The White House is keeping this in mind – and it is evident it wants to diversify its staff.  In fact, the halls of the White House have recently gotten brighter as two exceptional Latinas are set to redefine the landscape of the communications department.  

In tandem with Jennifer Molina, the Deputy Communications Director, and Luisana Perez, Senior Director of Coalitions Media, Gabriela “Gabi” Garcia-Ugalde and Kellie McManamon are poised to usher in a new era of communication prowess within the White House. 

The White House Can Now Count on Two Exceptional Latinas to Partake in Shaping Its Media Landscape

Garcia-Ugalde assumes the role of Deputy Director of Broadcast and Consumer Media at The White House, an accomplished Latina with a rich tapestry of experience. Her journey traces back to her days as the Deputy Press Secretary for Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada. A graduate of Barnard College, Columbia University, she garnered her B.A. in American Studies, graduating cum laude while leading her senior class as president. 

Diving into the political arena, Garcia-Ugalde was handpicked for the prestigious 2020 Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) Public Policy Fellowship. This invaluable experience placed her in the offices of Congresswoman Donna Shalala (D-FL) and Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX). Her subsequent tenure with Senator Alex Padilla of California and a prominent role in Senator Cortez Masto’s communications team added layers to her expertise. 

Notably, her exceptional contributions earned her a spot on CNCT’s 2023 Top 10 Staffers to Watch list. In the U.S. Senate Press Secretaries Association (SPSA), she held the position of events planner and secured a spot on the executive board. Garcia-Ugalde’s dedication extended to her involvement in the Congressional Hispanic Staff Association (CHSA). 

Beyond her political endeavors, Garcia-Ugalde selflessly dedicates her time as a high school mentor with Kid Power DC and also carries the distinction of being a certified yoga teacher, balancing her professional acumen with a commitment to mentorship and wellness. 

Joining her in this impactful venture is Kellie McManamon, whose impressive journey begins in her roots, hailing from California. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, she recently added a Master’s degree in Public Policy from Georgetown University to her accolades. 

McManamon’s trajectory toward the White House involved stints as a confidential assistant at the Office of Management and Budget and a pivotal role as an intern with the Office of Public Engagement. Her dedication to furthering the administration’s agenda and amplifying its voice underscores her invaluable contributions. 

In her leisure moments, McManamon finds solace in exploring new culinary adventures by experimenting with recipes and strolling through the iconic National Mall. 

As Garcia-Ugalde and McManamon step into their roles within the White House communications department, their combined dedication signals a promising era of effective communication and diverse representation within the corners of the most powerful place in the world.  

Exit mobile version