Maria Chacon Kniestedt is the Communications & Public Affairs Director for the City of Rancho Cordova. In this role, Maria oversees communications, legislation and community engagement for the city. She also serves as the Inclusion Leader for the organization.

Career

Maria brings over 25 years of experience as a communications professional. Early in her career, she served as a spokesperson for the California Department of Consumer Affairs. More recently, Maria worked for 14 years at FleishmanHillard as a Senior Vice President, working with Fortune 500 clients and specializing in media relations and strategic communications planning.

Education

Maria earned both a B.A. and M.A. in English from Sac State, as well as a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion from Cornell University. In addition, she has taught writing classes at Sacramento City College, Sac State and PIMA Medical Institute, as well as Public Relations at Webster University.

Boards & Committees

She won a Silver Anvil for public education campaign work and has served as a Board Member for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, California Capital Airshow and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. She has been an Official Member of the Forbes Communications Council.

Fun Facts

• Favorite place in Rancho Cordova: Bike and running paths
• Hobby: Traveling
• Favorite quote: "Be the change you wish to see in the world." – Mahatma Gandhi

Contact

Contact the Communications & Public Affairs Director