The Orange County Public Affairs Association (OCPAA) was created in 1993 as a forum for the growing ranks of OC public affairs professionals, elected officials, corporate executives and policy makers to connect, network and share best practices.
With nearly 150 members from diverse sectors, organizations and industries, we educate our members on the latest techniques, issues and strategies. We hold frequent educational events and provide numerous resources, including our renowned Public Affairs Directory, the only publication of its kind in Orange County. We also connect professionals with prospective clients and potential employers.
In order to ensure a bright future for our profession, we give back to and support students interested in public policy careers through the Randall G. “Randy” Smith Memorial Scholarship.
Interested in becoming a member? Learn more about how to join and the many benefits of membership in the Orange County Public Affairs Association.
Board of Directors
The Orange County Public Affairs Association is governed by a 20-member Board of Directors. The Board, responsible for the programming and policies of OCPAA, meets on the 3rd Monday of each month. Board members come from diverse backgrounds, including corporations, consultancies, government agencies and non-profit organizations.
Co-Chairs
Jill Kanzler
Kanzler Public Affairs
Cori Takkinen
Townsend Public Affairs
Advisory Board
Jennifer Bullard
Cox Communications
Veronica Carpenter
CalOptima Health
Matt Cunningham
Pacific Strategies
Debbie Daly
Strategies360
Karalee Darnell
The Disneyland Resort
Roger Faubel
Faubel Public Affairs
Juan Gonzalez
So Cal Gas
Steve Greyshock
The Irvine Company
Matthew Hicks
H&S Ventures
Lance Larson
OCTA
Kelley Lee
SoCal Edison
Christie McDaniel
The Advocacy Group
Craig Reinhardt
Smith Public Affairs
Dave Simpson
Herzog
Phil Tsunoda
Innovative Integrated Health
George T. Urch
George Urch & Associates
Amanda Walsh
Orange County Business Council
Peter Whittingham
Whittingham Public Affairs Advisors