HARRISBURG – Gov. Edward G. Rendell Monday said Chuck Ardo will succeed Kate Philips as press secretary. Philips has been named a special advisor to the governor.
“Chuck has the unique ability to effectively communicate with the public on a broad host of issues,” said Rendell. “He has been a part of my team since before I became governor and I’m pleased that he will continue to serve my administration in this expanded role.”
Ardo has served as deputy press secretary since the governor’s inauguration in 2003 and previously was a member of the governor’s 2002 campaign staff.
A graduate of the Ohio State University, Ardo spent the early part of his career pursuing a number of entrepreneurial ventures and later became involved in political campaigns.
Philips, who has served as Rendell’s press secretary since 2003, will continue to advise the governor. She will also assume new responsibilities overseeing a development project at the Port of Philadelphia that will include
the deepening of the Delaware River along with key new strategic investments aimed at increasing commerce in the region.
“Kate did a great job for me as press secretary. Her talent, intelligence and dedication were on display for all to see. In her new role, she will use all those qualities to work closely with the port community to help move this
important project forward in an efficient and environmentally sound manner,” Rendell said. “I appreciate her work as press secretary and look forward to working with her in this new role.”
An Erie native and former journalist, Philips recently took a leave of absence to serve as communications director for Congressman Bob Brady’s campaign for mayor of Philadelphia. She also served as the public affairs director and press secretary for the Port of Baltimore from 2001 to 2002.