(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman today announced Jen Rae Hein of Omaha as his next Communications Director. Hein, who currently serves as Communications Director and Press Secretary for U.S. Rep. Lee Terry, will join the Governor's Office on March 5.

"I am pleased that we had an opportunity to hire someone with Jen's energy, enthusiasm and experience of working with a respected United States Congressman," Gov. Heineman said. "Jen has a dynamic personality, a wealth of relationships with the media, and she deals well with the public. She will be a strong addition to our staff."

Hein, 27, joined Rep. Terry's press office in August 2004 as Deputy Press Secretary, focusing on Web site development and speechwriting. She also assisted her supervisor in responding to questions from members of the news media and was promoted in January 2005 to her current post as Communications Director. Her responsibilities include managing all media inquiries and substantive requests for public information.

She earned bachelor's degrees in advertising and strategic communications from the William Allen White School of Journalism at the University of Kansas, with minors in political science, English and communications studies. While in school, Hein served as a newsroom intern at WOWT-TV in Omaha and worked at KJHK-FM in Kansas. Following graduation, Hein started a small public relations business in Lawrence, Kan., Anomaly Advertising. She then worked for Rep. Terry as a Special Programs Assistant, returning to Nebraska in 2004 to assist the campaign of U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry.

Hein will replace outgoing Communications Director Aaron Sanderford, who resigned last month to return to newsgathering. Sanderford, 29, has agreed to extend his time with the Governor's Office until March 2, to assist with the transition.

Hein said, "The opportunity to work for Governor Heineman is a true privilege, because I have great respect for him and his dedication to Nebraskans. I very much enjoyed working for Congressman Terry and the people of the Second Congressional District. I look forward to an equally rewarding statewide experience with the Governor."

Hein will be paid an annual salary of $62,000. She lives in Omaha.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Aaron Sanderford, 402-471-1967
Ashley Cradduck, 402-471-1970

Individuals who are hearing and/or speech impaired and have a TDD, may contact the department through the Statewide Relay System by calling one of the following numbers:
711, (800) 833- 7352 (TDD), or (800) 833-0920 (voice).
The relay operator should be asked to call DED at (800) 426-6505, or (402) 471-3111.