GETTING AHEAD
Our dynamic department leverages the right tools for its tasks. CCE leaders play a pivotal role in implementing successful programs by securing and providing resources, creating efficient systems, and offering continuous support. The advancement team actively contributes to propelling divisions forward by:
• Leading the department’s digital transformation
• Provide marketing, design and communications support to increase program effectiveness
• Researching and implementing shared management tools.
• Provide centralized administrative support.
Team members
Katherine Potter
Deputy director
Manages: The Administration’s Advancement Team, and Pay for Performance, training programs, and other statewide initiatives that affect department staff. Contact her with any or all big questions that are beyond the scope of division leadership.
> katherinepotter@utah.gov
David Wicai
Director of IT + strategic initiatives
Manages: Special projects, such as 2022’s new state flag initiative, and the current big, ambitious project, The Museum of Utah. He also oversees department security, computer equipment, and IT
Ellen Weist
Public information officer
Manages: All media communications. Contact her ASAP any time you hear from a reporter seeking an interview or information. She also manages communications with the governor’s office for the department, such as requesting proclamations or video PSAs. She drafts and distributes press releases, and responds to GRAMA requests. View the department media policy here. (There will be a quiz.)
Cassandra Wambach
Manager of Thriving Utah
Manages: the team that helps to match AmeriCorps members with nonprofit agencies seeking to build their programs.
Nicole Handy
Director of America 250
Manages the nonprofit CCE Foundation, and the America250 Commission, a board of community leaders appointed by Gov. Cox to plan Utah’s birthday celebration in 2026.