Cuomo Administration Announces Staff Changes

December 17th, 2018

As is common when a Governor begins a new term, Gov. Cuomo has started to make staffing changes within his Administration.

Dani Lever has been named communications director, where she will oversee the Governor’s press shop, digital communications, and short- and long-term messaging strategy.

Timothy Hartz will serve as Director of Executive Operations. He previously served as special assistant to President Obama and White House deputy director of advance operations.

Laura Edidin, a former assistant U.S. Attorney who most recently served as chief of the human trafficking unit in the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, will serve as chief special counsel for ethics, risk and compliance.

Rich Azzopardi, who previously served as Senior Deputy Communications Director, will serve as Senior Adviser to the Governor. Peter Ajemian will assume his former position.

Caitlin Girouard, who most recently worked for Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, will serve as Press Secretary.

Dana Carotenuto Rico, formerly Chief of Staff for the Senate’s Independent Democratic Conference (IDC), will serve as Deputy Secretary for Legislative Affairs and Policy.

Gov. Cuomo said:

“This administration is laser focused on advancing and implementing policies that improve the lives of residents in every corner of this state, from strengthening gun safety reforms and protecting our natural resources, to fostering economic opportunities that create new, 21st century jobs for New Yorkers.  I am proud to work with these talented and dedicated individuals as we build on our progress and continue to move New York forward.”

More Administration staff changes are expected in the near future.