April 1, 2016

RNC Announces National Director of African American Initiatives and Media

WASHINGTON – Today Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Reince Priebus announced Telly Lovelace will join the RNC as National Director of African American Initiatives and Media. Telly will head theRNC’s efforts to engage Black media and voters, and brings over twenty years of political and communications experience to the Party.   
 
The RNC will also launch a new diversity initiative in continuation with the RNC’s increased efforts since 2013, with the goal of expanding and investing in a new generation of Black, conservative Republicans. The program will empower a growing base of young, diverse Republican staff by giving them the opportunities and resources through a paid internship program.

“Engaging with Black voters and all diverse communities across the country is a top priority for the RNC,” said Chairman Priebus. “Telly is a welcome addition to our team, and I’m confident his experience will help us build on our commitment to cultivate relationships and trust with Black media and Black communities.”

Telly joins the RNC from IR+ Media, an African American owned public relations firm specializing in diversity and inclusion, where he served as Managing Director.  Previously, Telly served as a senior member of Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s communications team. Telly also served as Director of Communications in the offices of Congressmen Michael Turner and Jerry Weller, as well as Deputy Communications Director for Senator Jim Talent.  Telly has experience in the private sector serving as Senior Manager of Communications and Public Affairs for the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufactures of America and Chief of Staff for the Center for Urban Renewal and Education.
 
###