Harnett County has named Desiree Patrick as the new Community Relations Director effective March 6, 2023. In this role, Patrick will manage the County’s Public Information Office, overseeing the communications, marketing, and community relations efforts between the County and its residents.

Patrick brings over 10 years of experience in communications, marketing, and public relations.

“I am excited that Desiree Patrick has joined our team as Community Relations Director,” said Brent Trout, Harnett County Manager. “We look forward to the work that she will accomplish with our community, departments, and local businesses. Her expertise will be a great addition to our organization.”

Patrick previously served as Communications and Public Relations Coordinator at Durham Technical Community College. She increased the college’s media visibility, managed internal and external communications efforts, and led the College’s 60 for 60-storytelling campaign.

As Community Relations Director, Patrick will lead internal and external communication campaigns to achieve the County’s Strategic Plan, create opportunities for public engagement, and enhance community partnerships to offer community resources for residents. Patrick will also serve as the Public Information Officer and County’s spokesperson.

Prior to her position at Durham Tech, she served in various non-profit roles providing marketing and communications support.

“As a Harnett County resident, I am excited to enter this role as the new Community Relations Director,” said Patrick. “I look forward to the work that will bring our community together and the impact that it will have in our County.”

Patrick received her Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications and minor in Journalism from Frostburg State University and Master of Science in Management with a Marketing Specialization from the University of Maryland Global Campus.

For more information on the County’s public information efforts, visit harnett.org/publicinfo.