Kristina Ray oversees communication and engagement for the City of Carlsbad, a full-service city of 115,000 located in coastal San Diego County. In this role she handles media relations, social media, crisis communication and public engagement for all city departments. Prior to joining the city, she was the vice president of a consulting firm specializing in public outreach and engagement for government agencies nationwide.

Both roles have fed her passion for demystifying local government and helping community members get involved in issues affecting their lives.

Before focusing on government service, Tina worked in Washington, D.C., for two former White House press secretaries. Other experience includes working as a local columnist for a regional daily newspaper and an instructor of journalism and public relations at San Diego State University.

Tina has a bachelor’s degree in communication from the University of San Diego and a master’s degree in communication from San Diego State University. She also has her certification in public involvement from the International Association of Public Participation.