Dina Gentry, communications director for the El Dorado County Office of Education (EDCOE), speaks with a confidence and professionalism that is well  earned. Last July, she was honored by the National School Public Relations Association in Washington D.C. with their “35 Under 35” award—a national accolade that seeks to empower young leaders in public school communications by recognizing their dedication. The group exchanged best practices, leadership skills, and strategies to help each other become stronger and empower other school communicators. “It was an out-of-body experience,” says Gentry. “Being in our nation’s capital...there was such a sense of promise.”

In her public relations work, Gentry provides support to county programs and school districts through positive PR, community engagement, crisis communications, and more. Her professional goals are to continue to make a positive impact, grow as a leader, empower others, make organizations stronger, and perhaps one day write a book.

Gentry also serves on several nonprofit committees, including Placerville Kiwanis as the president-elect, Sierra Community Access Channel 2, the El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership El Dorado Program, and California School Public Relations Association (CalSPRA).

Some  parting words of wisdom from this young leader? “Don’t spread yourself too thin trying to be everything to everybody. Choose your top priority.”
 —Domino Soleil

Q&A

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Stay true to your values, work hard, and become a servant leader.

What comes to you naturally?

Connecting people.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Negativity and pessimism.

Are you high or low maintenance?

Low maintenance.

Biggest life inspirations?

My El Dorado County family: parents, schools, educators, EDCOE leadership, community partners, and service organizations. 

What are you most proud of?

Working with El Dorado County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Ed Manansala, to establish the El Dorado County Education Fund.

Favorite humanitarian cause?

Supporting individuals with disabilities.

Best words of wisdom you’ve received?

“Make an impact, not just an impression.”—Dr. Rick Rigsby

FAVORITES

AUTHOR/WRITER: John Maxwell and Michael Hyatt 

MEAL IN TOWN: Smith Flat House

LOCAL LANDMARK: Wakamatsu Farm

MOVIE: The American President 

MUSICIAN/BAND: Dave Matthews Band

ESCAPE: Napa

GUILTY PLEASURE: James Patterson novels

LOCAL NONPROFIT: El Dorado County Education Fund 

SAYING: “Always remember, your focus determines your reality.”—George Lucas