BISMARK, N.D.--The Dakota Credit Union Association has named Chesney Garnos Director of Political & Grassroots Affairs.
Chesney is a highly skilled communicator with a strong background in government relations, nonprofit advocacy, and executive relationship building. Raised in Presho, South Dakota, she earned her B.A. in political science and social media marketing and her M.A. in communications from the University of South Dakota. During her time as a student, she had the opportunity to work as a South Dakota legislature intern and political science research assistant, and held positions at KYOT news and KAOR radio.
She also brings an impressive resume of previous work experience to the association, completing five internships in the U.S. Senate. In addition, she was the communications manager for a non-profit based in Washington, D.C., and worked as a communications specialist in the office of South Dakota Senator Mike Rounds. Most recently, she worked as a strategic communications manager and senior digital strategist for two Sioux Falls, South Dakota based companies.
Chesney’s primary responsibilities at DakCU will be to assist the advocacy team with all legislative and political objectives, and direct legislative affairs and political action efforts in the South Dakota region. “Chesney brings a wealth of experience working in legislative affairs and policy issues at both the state and federal level, having worked extensively in Washington, D.C.,” says DakCU President/CEO, Jeff Olson. “We are very excited to have Chesney on our advocacy team; her successful background and engagement in policy issues will be an asset in guiding our credit union advocacy agenda on both the state and federal levels, as well as coordinating our political action objectives,” he added.