MAPE welcomes new department directors

The department previously known as Public Affairs and Communications has been revamped into two separate departments – the Legislative and Political Affairs Department and the Communications Department.

“I am thrilled to see our organization evolving and adapting. This new department structure is a testament to MAPE’s adaptive spirit,” MAPE President Megan Dayton said. “It’s a necessary evolution to meet the ever-changing needs of our members and to ensure our organization doesn’t just survive but thrives in an increasingly complex landscape.” 

Though these standalone departments are new, the two new directors taking over those departments will look familiar to MAPE members.    

MAPE’s political affairs coordinator Devin Bruce has taken over the Legislative and Political Affairs Department and public relations coordinator Ashley Erickson has taken over the Communications Department.    

Bruce says both his seven years’ experience and previous managers at MAPE have set him up for success in his new role.  

 “I’ve had two exceptional managers who taught me how to be a good lobbyist and also a good listener who is flexible, compassionate and cares about our membership,” Bruce said. “Going through COVID and virtual lobbying, I was able to assert myself more in the lobbying role, taking on a large piece of our legislative portfolio and leading our agenda this last session.”   

For Erickson, it is the opportunity to continue developing communication strategies that engage members and propel MAPE forward that gets her most excited about this new role. 

“It energizes me to learn what matters most to our members, hear how our department can help them share their individual stories, reach out to others and brainstorm initiatives to try in their locals and beyond,” Erickson said. “After 11 years with MAPE, I’ve had the chance to be a part of a lot of exciting changes here, and I can’t wait to see how we continue to reimagine our union and how we connect with one another.”   

Both new directors agreed the splitting of the formerly combined department will allow for more coordinated and strategic work to support each department’s distinct mission, while maintaining a close connection to ensure the past collaboration continues. 

“This will help both our teams focus our respective areas of expertise and responsibilities while still maintaining cohesiveness of communicating what’s happening in our organization or at the legislature,” Bruce said. 

“Our communications team values collaboration with every department at MAPE, as well as with our members, and I think that’s a foundational element of successful communications that will always be a pillar of our work,” Erickson added.