Jo-Anne Sears

Jo-Anne Sears is a seasoned communications strategist with over 25 years of experience in the national security sector, specializing in defense, aerospace, intelligence, and space technology. She leverages her extensive expertise and access to high-level decision-makers to influence policy, shape legislation, and drive business development initiatives with federal agencies. At the Center for the Study of the Presidency & Congress, Jo-Anne draws on her past experience with U.S. presidential transition teams to deepen understanding of the critical nature of transitions between administrations and process improvement.

Throughout her distinguished career, Jo-Anne has served as a senior strategic advisor to top government officials. Notably, during the George W. Bush administration, she supported Secretary Colin L. Powell in the U.S. State Department's press office, focusing on Diplomatic Security, counter-terrorism, and Central Asia. She also served three U.S. Secretaries of the Air Force, where she played a key role in shaping policy messaging, supporting military and intelligence operations, and engaging with stakeholders including Congress, the White House, NASA, and other critical partners. Her work spans strategic areas such as defense, counterterrorism, and national security communications.

Jo-Anne has been instrumental in advancing defense and intelligence priorities before Congressional committees and was awarded the Meritorious Service Award for her contributions to the U.S. State Department and the White House following the September 11 attacks.

Jo-Anne holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Change Management from Hawaii Pacific University and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in English from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, New York. She is an active member of several national security and aerospace organizations and is deeply committed to public service, leadership, and mentoring women in leadership roles. Additionally, Jo-Anne is passionate about guiding youth in STEM education.