Senator Eichelberger Announces Staffing Changes

HARRISBURG (10-22-2007) – State Senator John H. Eichelberger, Jr., Republican, Blair, has announced a new team member along with staffing changes.

“After my Chief of Staff left in July, I had the opportunity to restructure and better accommodate the needs of my office,” Eichelberger says.

Austin O’Neill has been hired as John’s new Policy and Communications Director. She comes to Pennsylvania’s Capital from the Nation’s Capital where she was a reporter at news radio stations including WTOP, Federal News Radio, WAMU and XM Satellite Radio.

“Austin’s background in communications and reporting are going to be a vital addition to my team. She was the News Director at WRTA Radio in Altoona when I was a Blair County Commissioner. She brings a great work ethic, a familiarity with Pennsylvania’s issues and a commitment to doing what’s best for Pennsylvania. She brings a lot to the table, and I’m very excited to have her join my team.”

“During my time in Blair County, I grew to respect John’s honesty, integrity and commitment to doing what’s right. It’s great to be back in the Keystone State. It’s where I went to college, it’s where I had my first job in my career and now I’m back as part of John’s team — excited to make a difference,” Austin says.

Austin is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University where she majored in Communications.

Former Legislative Director, Jason High, has worked with John for a number of years and has been promoted to Chief of Staff and Michele Adams will be taking on additional responsibilities from the Hollidaysburg office.

Austin will be employed in the Harrisburg office and can be reached at 717-787-5490, 202-369-6202, or aoneill@pasen.gov.

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