Mayor Sylvester Turner has tapped communications and public affairs professional Ada Ortega to serve as his new press secretary.
Before joining the Mayor’s Office of Communications, Ortega worked as a Corporate Communications Manager, Regional Press Secretary, and Latino Media Coordinator for the Texas Democratic Party and served a brief stint as a Video Production Assistant in the Texas House of Representatives.
“I am excited about bringing fresh ideas and a new perspective to my Office of Communications. Ada’s background and passion for public service are a great fit for the City of Houston,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “The COVID-19 pandemic underscores the continuing importance and need for effective communications. Ada will work closely with the entire team to keep the public informed about my work and priorities on behalf of our great city.”
Ada is a graduate of American University in Washington, D.C. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America and stays active in Latino advocacy groups.
“It is an honor to work for Mayor Turner and manage his media relations,” said Ortega. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to help communicate his work to the people of Houston. Effective messaging is pivotal for keeping our communities safe and well-informed during these challenging times. I look forward to working with the Mayor and his dynamic team.”
The Mayor’s Office of Communications is led by Communications Director Mary Benton, who previously served as Mayor Turner’s press secretary. Benton oversees media relations, ceremonial documents, social media, and the Texas Public Information Act requests for the city.