Dede Dunham
Communications Manager
Dede Dunham is the Communications Manager at the Institute for Citizens & Scholars. She leads storytelling, messaging, and strategic communications for the higher education portfolio, amplifying the organization’s work across campuses nationwide.
Before joining Citizens & Scholars, Dede served as Communications Director for the Southern Economic Advancement Project (SEAP), where she led storytelling and strategic communications across the South, including the “Our Dollars, Our Dreams” campaign focused on equitable federal funding. Earlier in her career, she was Press Secretary for the Louisiana Workforce Commission and a news reporter for KNOE-TV8 (CBS Affiliate), where she covered state and local government, education, and community stories and was recognized as Best News Reporter of the Ark-La-Miss. Dede holds a BA in Communication from Louisiana Tech University and an MPA from Louisiana State University.
Outside of work, she enjoys traveling with her husband and caring for her growing collection of plants. She stays active in her community by using storytelling to highlight local voices and issues that matter. Whether it’s mentoring students, supporting small businesses, or collaborating on creative projects, she believes impact starts close to home.
“I’m optimistic because I see people reclaiming their voices and realizing the power of collective impact. Every conversation, vote, and act of service reminds me that change starts with showing up.”
Expertise
- Strategic Communications
- Higher Education Storytelling
- Public Policy & Civic Engagement
- Brand Development
- Community Relations
- Media & Public Affairs