As a Senior Policy Advisor for Michael Best Strategies, Kassandra assists the team with strategic communications and provides support on government relations and legislative matters.
Prior to joining Michael Best Strategies, Kassandra served as a Legislative Liaison for the Illinois Department of Human Services where she represented the agency in the state legislative process. Kassandra reviewed bills and policy proposals, developed and implemented legislative strategies to help achieve the agency’s priorities, and prepared agency leaders and program directors for committee and budget hearings. Within this role, she also developed educational communications and drafted monthly newsletters of agency updates to maintain consistent communication with legislators.
Earlier, Kassandra worked as a Program Specialist for the Illinois House of Representatives Office of the Speaker where she created and managed outreach plans for legislators by drafting statements and press releases on issue positions, bills, and current affairs. She also prepared and managed committee hearings by reviewing bills up for consideration, developing hearing agendas, and conducting roll calls. Additionally, Kassandra gained valuable experience through her participation in the University of Illinois-Springfield’s Illinois Legislative Staff Internship Program.