The City of St. Petersburg has appointed Samantha Bequer as its new Public Information Officer (PIO). In her new role, Bequer will oversee media relations and act as a spokesperson and liaison for public information within the city.
Mayor Kenneth T. Welch expressed confidence in Bequer’s capabilities, stating, “Samantha’s proven track record in public relations and critical event communications, combined with her dedication to serving the public, will be a great asset for St. Petersburg.” He further added that her presence would help communicate the city’s message of “inclusive progress and intentional equity” effectively.
Bequer joins from the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR), where she was Communications Director and primary spokesperson. Her previous experience includes significant roles at the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), notably as lead State PIO during major events like the Surfside Building Collapse.
During Florida’s COVID-19 response, she managed media strategies for testing and vaccination sites as FDEM’s press secretary. Additionally, she served as State Public Information Officer for NASA’s Mars Perseverance Rover launch, earning the NASA Silver Group Achievement Award.
Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Political Science from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Political Science from Florida State University.
In St. Petersburg, Bequer will report to Alizza Punzalan-Randle, Managing Director of Communications and Community Engagement for Mayor Welch. She is set to begin her duties on September 23, 2024.
