Top FLDOE spokeswoman to depart

For about two years (is that some sort of record?), Jennifer Fennell has led the Florida DOE's communications department, making changes that we reporters at the Gradebook can attest were for the better when it came to getting information from the department that hasn't always been known for its openness, Sunshine Law or not.

Now Fennell is headed back to the private sector. "I've enjoyed my time with the department, but I am looking forward to something that will give me more flexibility and time with my family," Fennell said. Her last day with the state is Wednesday, and then she will join CoreMessage, the Tallahassee PR firm run by former Jeb Bush adviser Cory Tilley and populated by folks like former Jeb spokeswoman Elizabeth Hirst and former Charlie Crist spokeswoman Vivian Myrtetus.

That's good news for Fennell, her husband and 8-month-old son. We can only hope that her spirit of helpfulness remains behind at the Florida Department of Education.

Comments

The message from Jennifer does reveal just how much of a lie the usual "lard brick" mythology of those who hate government workers. She is leaving government service for an easier job working for former Jebbies. Maybe, when Jeb said he was going to empty out the state buildings, he meant that everyone was going to go to work for his former employees.

[Braulio]

As someone who had the opportunity to work with Jennifer, I know and applaud her for the time, energy, and commitment she has given the students of our state. She is a wonderful leader and FDOE will find it very difficult to replace what she has meant to the Communications Office: A woman of integrity, a loving mother, and a leading professional in the field of communications. Good Luck Jennifer!

Another great hire by CoreMessage. Fennell is professional and well respected and has earned her stripes.

[Kristy Campbell]

Jennifer Fennell is an A+ rock star. She did great work for for education in Florida.

Corey Tilley is in for a rude awakening. Not only in her requested departure from DOE has she failed, but she has failed the public of the State of Florida as well. Her brash, blatatly rude personality are definitely NOT fitting for a PR firm, much less a public servant as the DOE discovered. Her relationship with the Capitol Press Corps was non-existent at best.

Don't know if Fennell is cut out for the public sector after being so successful in contributing to the operation of government in the shadows.

Ms. Fennell would do better to hire a PR firm for her own reputation. Although, making her look good would be a monstrous task even for the most prestigious firm.