School to Career - State Senate Staff - Director of Communications


		Responsibilities
		Starting Out
		Press Release

The Director of Communications is responsible for developing a communication strategy for the senator. This means deciding how and when to make announcements to the media in a manner that will be most effective.

Thomas Dunham handles this important job for Senator Skelos in Albany. Not only does he develop strategies for communications but he also advises the senator on a myriad of other issues.

Always On the Job

"With a 24 hour, seven day a week media cycle, the job never truly ends," says Thomas, who is always ready to help the senator address the media should the need arise. During a typical day, Thomas reads the newspapers to stay on top of what is being written about the senator and to keep up with other political concerns. He also meets with various staff members to discuss key issues and advises Senator Skelos on major public policy matters. If the occasion arises, he will write and edit materials to be sent to the media.

In order to succeed at this type of job, strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary along with critical strategic planning. "The ability to build relationships with members of the media is also very important," explains Thomas, adding that creativity and quick thinking are attributes that bode well in this type of position.

Knowledge, Education & Internships... The Keys To Success

"The more extensive your educational background, the greater your ability will be to draw upon a diverse base of knowledge," explains Thomas, who attended Siena College in Loudonville, New York, where he received his Political Science Degree. He also received a Masters Degree from SUNY Albany’s Rockefeller College of Public Policy and Development and then attended Albany Law School of Union University where he earned a Juris Doctor Degree with a concentration in Business Law.

Along with earning several degrees, he interned at a New York State industry association, a state agency and for another New York State senator. "I’ve always had a strong interest in politics, elections and public policy," adds Thomas Dunham, who recommends that students get involved with as many internships as possible during their college careers and pursue advanced degrees which provide a greater base of knowledge and expertise in their chosen field.