The City of Gastonia has hired Dandria Bradley, who has served as Deputy Communications Director for Gaston County, as its new Director of Communications and Marketing.
Bradley will begin her new position with the City of Gastonia on Monday, December 2nd and will lead the day-to-day operations of the Communications and Marketing Department and its employees. The position became vacant in August with the retirement of former Director Mary Elliott.
Bradley, who is a Gastonia native, has 15 years of communications experience, which includes more than six years serving as the Deputy Communications Director and the Program Coordinator for the Gaston County Public Library. During this time, Bradley has established relationships with citizens, lawmakers, and other stakeholders throughout Gaston County. She also has more than 20 years of customer service experience, making her an expert at conflict management and resolution, strategic communications, and problem-solving.
“Because Ms. Bradley grew up here, she knows our history and understands our leadership’s vision for the future,” said City Manager Michael Peoples. “With a background in communications and customer service, her ability to create engaging and strategic messaging about City services and resources will be crucial for our residents as we seek to move Gastonia forward.”
Bradley received her master’s degree in communications from Lasell University in Massachusetts and holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She also holds certifications as a Public Information Officer from North Carolina Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).