Monica Hassan

Monica Hassan was reappointed deputy director of public affairs on September 23, 2021, a position she has served in since June 1, 2017. Prior to that, she was the Governor-appointed director of external affairs at CaliforniaVolunteers, Office of the Governor. 

She also worked in various capacities throughout the state, including working as a public information officer for the Department of General Services, legislative coordinator and training program officer within the Department of Justice, and a research analyst and facilities/leasing representative within the Employment Development Department. 

She earned her bachelor's degree in psychology from CSU Sacramento, earned a graduate certificate for Strategic Communication Management, as well as a Master of Science degree with a concentration in Strategic Communication and Public Relations from Purdue University. She also holds a certificate for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace from University of South Florida.

She is a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, the California Association of Public Information Officials, the National Association of Government Communicators, and the Public Relations Society of America. She is also a member of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.