SCHWAB ANNOUNCES NEW SENIOR STAFF APPOINTMENT

Thursday, December 30, 2021

TOPEKA – Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab announced the appointment of Jennifer Cook as Assistant Secretary of State. The position was previously held by Catherine Gunsalus since 2019, when Schwab first took office. Gunsalus is departing from the Secretary of State’s office to become the State Advocacy Director for Heritage Action for America.

“Catherine served as my Chief of Staff in the Legislature and as Assistant Secretary during my first term as Secretary. I cannot thank her enough for the work she has done to ensure the Secretary of State’s office is not just running, but running well. I am beyond thrilled for her next steps and have no doubt she will do an excellent job working nationwide with Heritage Action,” said Schwab.

“Jennifer’s commitment to excellence, vast background in state and federal policy, and outstanding professionalism make her a great choice for this role. I look forward to working with her to continue serving the state of Kansas,” said Schwab.

Cook previously served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Business Services. Prior to working for the Secretary of State, Cook served as Deputy Bank Commissioner for Consumer and Mortgage Lending at the Office of the State Bank Commissioner and previously worked for Senator Pat Roberts and former Governor Bill Graves. Cook earned a BA in Political Science and Communications from Washburn University and a Master’s Degree in Russian and East European Studies from the University of Kansas.

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