Bernard L. Kavaler, MANAGING PRINCIPAL
Bringing three decades of senior level executive experience in communications strategy, policy development and program management with state government organizations focusing on finance, law, business, civic involvement and higher education, Bernard Kavaler is Managing Principal of Express Strategies, a strategic communications and public policy consulting business he founded in 2012.
RESPECTED COMMUNICATIONS PROFESSIONAL
A well-respected and accomplished communications and policy professional, his responsibilities have included communications policy development and implementation, strategic and crisis planning, public and media relations, marketing, speech writing, publication and web content development and outreach to strategic partners and major constituencies.
Prior to founding Express Strategies, he served as a key member of the executive staff of four of Connecticut’s constitutional officers and the state’s university system, developing expertise in high profile project management in a public context. His leadership positions included service with the Offices of Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of the State and State Treasurer. He was also the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Public Affairs for the Connecticut State University System.
EXPERIENCED JOURNALIST & WRITER
He was principal author, researcher and editor for Connecticut’s Report on the State of Democracy, and was lead staff member on gubernatorial commissions including the High Technology Council, Task Force on Racial Harmony, and Task Force on Missing Children, and was the Lieutenant Governor’s liaison to the state legislature. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication from the University of Hartford, and has taught as an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Hartford and University of Saint Joseph. In addition, he has earned professional certificates in Leadership Excellence and Principles of Fundraising, and is a member of the Professional Speechwriters Association.
During a previous career in broadcasting and journalism, he was recognized by the Connecticut Associated Press for outstanding cooperation in news coverage, and was a general assignment reporter and producer for Hartford’s all-news radio station. His freelance news and sports articles have appeared in numerous publications, and he has drafted opinion pieces, speeches and news articles on a broad range of subjects.
COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY
Bernard Kavaler has served on the executive committee of the Better Business Bureau in Connecticut, as a member of the Board of Advisors for The Michael Bolton Charities and the organizing committee for the CT Entrepreneur Awards, as well as on executive committees of the Travelers Championship and a U.S. Presidential Debate. He has been an active member of numerous nonprofit boards, including the Connecticut Foundation for Open Government, Connecticut Fund for the Environment, Connecticut Main Street Center, Leadership Greater Hartford and Connecticut Humanities, and volunteered in public service roles in his local community.
ASHLEIGH WEBB, PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSOCIATE
Ashleigh Gabrielle Webb is a dynamic communications professional with a passion for strategic storytelling and brand development. A May 2024 graduate of Penn State University, Ashleigh earned her B.A. in Advertising/Public Relations with minors in Digital Media Trends & Analytics, Global & International Studies, and Sports Studies.
Ashleigh brings a wealth of experience from her roles in public relations, sports marketing, and campaign management. As a Public Relations Associate at Express Strategies, she has honed her skills in crafting compelling content, managing media relations, and executing strategic communication projects.
With a strong foundation in both traditional and digital media, Ashleigh excels in developing integrated marketing strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Her experience spans various industries, including sports, entertainment, and non-profit sectors, giving her a versatile perspective on communication challenges.
Ashleigh's commitment to excellence is evident in her academic achievements and professional certifications. She stays at the forefront of industry trends through her certifications in Google Analytics, Google Ads, and Hootsuite.