2AVM6781_webVANCOUVER, Wash. – The Port of Vancouver USA has hired Julie Rawls as the port’s community relations specialist. Rawls will assist the port in establishing and maintaining relationships with community stakeholders. Her primary duties include representing the port at public meetings, delivering presentations, conducting tours, managing the port’s speakers’ bureau, and helping organize events.

“We are so pleased to add Julie to our team,” said Katy Brooks, community outreach manager for the port. “Her extensive experience combined with her strong belief in the value of public involvement will make her a wonderful resource for both the port and our community.”

Prior to working at the port, Rawls served more than 20 years in the Portland Development Commission’s public affairs and public outreach departments. Her work focused on multiple aspects of communication, including media relations, government relations, writing, public speaking and public involvement.

According to Rawls, she is always focused on being a good listener and her goal is “to understand community interests, effectively communicate complex information and encourage dialog between the port and the public.”

Rawls started working at the port on November 12, 2013, filling a position vacated in August of that same year. Rawls will continue the port’s outreach efforts and serve as liaison between the port and neighborhood, business and civic organizations.

Rawls can be contacted at 360-693-3611 or jrawls@portvanusa.com.