John Stieger is Communications Director for the Minnesota Department of Health. The MDH Communications Office coordinates all internal and external communications, including media relations, production of informational materials, internal and external Web publishing, speechwriting, and public awareness campaign development. The Communications Office is also responsible for coordinating Focus Area F activities, which are directed by Buddy Ferguson, a long-time MDH employee and well-respected risk communications expert. John has a Bachelors degree from the University of Minnesota and additional training in public relations, advertising and television production. After graduating from the U. of M., John took a job with the Minnesota State Senate. During his 12 years with the Senate, John coordinated a wide range of communications activities, including newsletters, news releases, radio actualities, graphic design and cable TV production. Following his tenure with the Senate, John took a position with the Minnesota Department of Employee Relations (DOER), in the area of employee health benefits. He was responsible for developing comprehensive health-related communications for the 40,000 employees of the State of Minnesota and their dependents. In 1994 (after four years with DOER), John transferred to the Minnesota Department of Health, where he began serving as manager of the Communications Office. He has since become communications director and supervises a staff of seven communications specialists.