Rick J. Kaufman

Rick J. Kaufman, APR, currently serves as the Executive Director of Community Relations and Emergency Management for Bloomington (MN) Public Schools since August 2007, directing communications and community engagement initiatives while acting as the chief spokesperson. Kaufman also operates a crisis and public relations consulting firm, Kaufman & Associates, since 2000, and possesses extensive experience in public engagement from previous roles including Executive Director of Public Engagement and Communications for Jeffco Public Schools in Colorado. A recognized authority in crisis management, Kaufman has contributed significantly to national discussions on public relations as a past president of NSPRA and WSPRA. Additional experience includes serving as a FEMA Field Coordinator following Hurricane Katrina and an extensive background in community relations and media through various educational and public service roles, complemented by a Master's degree in Public Relations from Marquette University. In addition to professional endeavors, Kaufman is a vocalist and percussionist with The Tuxedo Band.