Firm welcomes fresh expertise to drive results across California’s diverse policy landscape
Sacramento, CA – Lucas Public Affairs (LPA), a leading California-based strategic communications and public affairs firm, is pleased to welcome three accomplished professionals to its growing team: Julianne Gray, Kimaya Gokhale and Linnea Leidy. Their wide-ranging experience in public policy, strategic communications and stakeholder engagement will enhance the firm’s ability to support clients across California’s policy and political landscape.
Julianne Gray brings nearly a decade of experience in public affairs, advertising and public relations to her role as Account Supervisor. She joins LPA after 4 years with RSE, where she managed the Department of Water Resources’ Save Our Water campaign, the DMV’s REAL ID campaign, and the California Department of Public Health’s Alzheimer’s awareness campaign, TakeOnAlz. She holds a B.A. in Communication from UC Davis with minors in English and Sociology.
Kimaya Gokhale strengthens LPA’s strategic communications and advocacy work as Senior Account Executive. Previously with Dewey Square Group, she managed grassroots outreach, coalition-building and messaging for statewide initiatives. Her background includes leading communications for a statewide emergency services campaign and supporting policy efforts for HIV+ individuals, unhoused communities and LGBTQ+ populations. Kimaya earned a B.A. in Economics with a minor in Biology from Scripps College.
Linnea Leidy expands the firm’s public affairs and operations capacity as she steps into the role of Operations and Account Executive. With a focus on natural resources, energy and infrastructure, she supports clients through research, coalition-building and external affairs coordination. Linnea previously served in the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom managing stakeholder outreach and supporting major initiatives on infrastructure and consumer protection. She also held a role at the California Natural Resources Agency where she helped launch statewide environmental equity efforts.
Linnea holds a B.A. in Political Science and History from the University of San Diego and a graduate certificate in Applied Policy and Government from CSU Sacramento.
These additions follow the recent announcement of Niesha Fritz, who joined LPA as Vice President. With more than two decades of experience at the intersection of journalism, public policy and legislative communications, Niesha most recently served as Director of Communications for the California Senate President pro Tempore. She now plays a key leadership role in advancing strategic initiatives across the firm’s client portfolio.
“LPA is known for assembling smart, strategic communicators who care deeply about California’s future,” said Donna Lucas, Founder & CEO of Lucas Public Affairs. “Julianne’s statewide campaign leadership, Kimaya’s cross-sector experience and Linnea’s deep understanding of stakeholder engagement and public policy strengthen our team and the strategic services we deliver. With Niesha’s legislative and media expertise also recently added, we’re well-positioned to support our clients on today’s most pressing issues.”
“All three of these professionals – Julianne, Kimaya and Linnea – are already having a meaningful impact on our client work,” said Cassandra Walker Pye, President of Lucas Public Affairs. “Each brings fresh perspectives, important connections in and around the Capitol and great energy that adds to our culture. We’re thrilled to have three exceptional colleagues join our already exceptional team.”