Blair Ellis Rhoades is a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience in strategic communications planning, media relations and executive advisement. With over a decade of experience spanning state and federal government in North Carolina and Washington, D.C., she has a proven track record of crafting impactful messaging strategies and guiding leaders through high-profile media engagements.
In her most recent role, Blair served as Communications Director for North Carolina's K-12 public school system—one of the largest in the nation, encompassing 115 school districts and over 215 charter schools. In this role, she provided strategic counsel to the State Superintendent and senior leadership, developed comprehensive communication plans for key education stakeholders and positioned the Superintendent's initiatives for public engagement.
A skilled political communicator, Blair was the Communications Director for the 2020 Republican National Convention and, prior to this, National Press Secretary for the Republican National Committee (RNC) where she served as chief spokesperson and oversaw earned media efforts during a pivotal election cycle. Prior to joining the RNC, she worked on Capitol Hill as Press Secretary and Digital Director for the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
Blair’s ability to craft compelling narratives, navigate crisis scenarios, and build meaningful relationships with media outlets has positioned her as a trusted leader and communications strategist in dynamic and high-stakes environments. Her ability to bridge policy priorities with impactful messaging makes her a sought-after advisor known for delivering results across complex and dynamic landscapes.