Mark Dessauer serves as the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Chief Communications Officer. Mark is responsible for shaping the agency’s public image, reputation, and stakeholder relationships and advises the State Superintendent and the DPI leadership team on matters related to communication and messaging, responding to crisis and strategic communication. Mark also manages media relations on behalf of NCDPI and the State Board of Education and is developing strong relationships with media representatives and to maximize media opportunities on behalf of NCDPI. Mark is also working with partners across state government, nonprofits, foundations and community partners to lift up the role and impact of North Carolina’s public schools.
Previously with Spitfire Strategies, Mark worked for ten years to help nonprofit and foundation leaders harness the power of communications. Previously, Mark directed communications for the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation of North Carolina and helped design statewide campaigns promoting oral health and free clinics. He also spent over a decade transforming communities with Active Living by Design, driving national efforts in smart growth, active transportation and healthy living.