Stephanie Tennyson, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in public affairs and emergency management, makes significant contributions as the Chief Communications Director at IEM. In her pivotal role, she provides strategic direction and oversight for the company’s external and internal communications. As the chief architect of IEM’s communication strategies, Stephanie has been instrumental in developing and implementing comprehensive media relations and digital engagement programs. As the chief spokesperson, she is integral in advancing IEM’s mission and amplifying its impact in the industry.

Before joining IEM, Stephanie honed her expertise as the government affairs lead at a Silicon Valley-based artificial intelligence and machine learning start-up, where she spearheaded government engagement initiatives, establishing thought leadership roles at national, state, and regional levels. Her efforts were pivotal in shaping outcomes aligned with the company’s mission, enhancing the company’s presence and influence across various government sectors.

Stephanie’s career is marked by her significant tenure at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, where she served as the career Senior Executive Deputy Director of the Office of External Affairs. She managed public affairs, strategic communications, and stakeholder engagement in this role, overseeing a large staff and a substantial budget. Her expertise was further solidified at the Department of Homeland Security, where she managed intergovernmental affairs and engaged with critical stakeholders on diverse homeland security issues.

Stephanie’s public policy and communications journey began at the Potomac Institute for Policy Studies, where she developed a comprehensive communication and government affairs strategy. Her tenure at Potomac Institute was marked by her impactful role in external affairs that showcased her ability to build and sustain robust partnerships across multiple stakeholder communities.

With a rich educational background, including a bachelor’s degree from Washington College and graduate work at Virginia Tech University, Stephanie graduated from the Executive Leaders Program at the Naval Postgraduate School’s Center for Homeland Defense and Security. Her extensive experience, encompassing the full breadth of external affairs strategies in both public and private sectors, underlines her proficiency in public engagement, outreach, strategic communications, and public service campaigns. Stephanie continues to be a driving force in shaping effective communication strategies and enhancing stakeholder engagement in emergency management and homeland security.