News from Duffey Communications this month consists of two hires: Patrick L. Burns as senior account executive, and Liz Chapman as marketing manager. Burns comes to Duffey with more than 12 years experience working with elected officials, government agencies, and political candidates at the local, state, and federal levels. Prior to joining the Duffey team, he was an associate at the A.L. Burruss Institute of Public Service at Kennesaw State University for five years. At the Burruss Institute, Patrick directed the Institute's programs in political leadership and ethics.

Prior to joining the Burruss Institute, Patrick served as key congressional staffer for Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, and as a policy advisor to the Speaker in the areas of healthcare and the environment. Patrick is also a volunteer for the Atlanta Ronald McDonald Houses, where he recently served as a co-chair for "Port O'Call 2004," one of the organization's annual fundraisers. He is also a member of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, the Georgia Public Affairs Society, and the Atlanta Clemson Alumni Club.

Liz Chapman joins Duffey from a previous position at The Epsten Group, an Atlanta-based architecture and consulting firm specializing in sustainable buildings. At Duffey, she will be responsible for promoting the agency's services and activities, business development and internal communications. Liz is a member of the Public Relations Society of America, volunteers as a member of the formation committee for a new non-profit called Go Green, Georgia!, and is proud to call Georgia State University her alma mater.