Adrienne Burns serves as the Director of External Affairs for the District, where she leads strategic communications, legislative affairs, customer service, public outreach and resource conservation programs. She was appointed to her position in July 2025.

With nearly 20 years of experience in government, higher education and environmental communications, Adrienne specializes in bridging the gap between technical data and public understanding—crafting narratives that build understanding, foster trust, build engagement and secure support for large-scale projects. She has held positions as a public affairs officer, communications manager, graphic designer and magazine editor, honing her skills in crisis communication, congressional affairs, journalism, photography, videography, graphic design, media relations and public outreach.

Adrienne holds a Master of Science in Communications from Syracuse University, a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from California State University, Northridge, and professional certificates in Marketing Strategy and Digital Marketing from Cornell University. She has been recognized nationally for her strategic narratives that combine technical precision with compelling storytelling.