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SMMUSD welcomes new communications chief as longtime staffers retire
Summary
Superintendent Antonio Shelton introduced Brandy Phillips as the district's incoming chief communications officer and the board publicly recognized longtime staffers Gail Pinsker and Melody Kennedy as they retire; Phillips starts July 1, Pinsker and Kennedy offered remarks of gratitude.
Superintendent Shelton recommended Brandy Phillips as the district’s new chief communications officer, noting her federal communications experience and July 1 start date. The board introduced Phillips and publicly recognized two long-serving employees who are retiring.
Gail Pinsker, who the superintendent described as a 10-year communications leader for the district, addressed the board during a farewell and reflected on the work. "As I get ready to ride off into the beautiful Santa Monica and Malibu sunset in what I'm calling my semi retirement at the end of this week, I wanna take a few minutes to share some reflections," Pinsker said. Brandy Phillips thanked the board and said she looked forward to stakeholder engagement: "I'm looking forward to it." The superintendent said the hire was completed through the personnel commission and required no board vote.
The board also recognized Melody Kennedy, the assistant superintendent of business and fiscal services, for eight years overseeing food services, payroll, facilities and other business functions. Kennedy thanked the board and staff for their collaboration and reflected on the district’s fiscal stewardship during challenging years. Board members and staff said the district will miss Pinsker and Kennedy and wished them well.
The superintendent asked the public to welcome Phillips when she starts July 1. No formal action was required for the appointment, as staff said the hire was processed via the personnel commission.
