Tanya Mannes Castaneda, APR, Principal

Tanya holds the Accreditation in Public Relations credential and was named California Communicator of the Year by the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO). She is certified in Executive Branding by The Communications Board.

With special expertise in media coverage of litigation, Tanya is a trusted adviser in crisis communications for clients whose reputations are under threat. Tanya has presented at international and statewide conferences and attorneys' forums, and serves as a career mentor through PRSA.

Tanya has developed strategic communications plans for clients ranging from government agencies in the transportation, educational and public utility sectors; nonprofits; political campaign, and a $3.5 billion redevelopment project. The programs and campaigns she developed have received awards from the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, CAPIO, Public Relations Society of America San Diego-Imperial Counties, American Association of Port Authorities, and San Diego Press Club. One of her most recent projects was the development of a citizens' academy for the Port of San Diego, which has already won two awards.

Formerly a news reporter, her career includes serving as Vice President of Public Relations for a leading public affairs firm; and as Public Information Officer for the Port of San Diego.

In her spare time, she has provided services at no cost to nonprofits. She is a member of the San Diego Blood Bank Board of Directors.