AARP Michigan welcomes new communications manager

Lansing, Michigan – Cathleen Simlar, a results-driven communications strategist with more than three decades of experience, has been named AARP Michigan’s new communications manager, according to state director Paula D. Cunningham.

Cathleen’s extensive career includes working alongside some of Michigan’s most revered leaders in the public and private sectors, including men and women from the highest levels of state and federal government and corporate America. She specializes in supporting executive vision through strategic communications planning, media outreach, product branding and speech writing. Most significantly, her work within the scope of public service continues to impact millions of Michigan residents daily and is a personal point of pride. 

“I am thrilled to welcome Cathleen to our team where I have no doubt her seasoned skillset will elevate our efforts to provide every Michigander with the opportunity to age with dignity and purpose,” Cunningham said. “She joins AARP at a pivotal moment when some of our most pressing priorities are advancing on the national stage.”

Cathleen’s previous experience includes her role as chief speech writer for two secretaries of state, a state budget director and several state department directors, along with communications support for two Michigan governors. She also led strategic communications on several statewide initiatives for the Michigan Department of State, including REAL ID and various customer service priorities impacting residents across the state.