News Item

Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Lorie S. Gildea and Minnesota State Court Administrator Jeff Shorba have announced that Beau Berentson will be the new Director of Communications and Public Affairs for the Judicial Branch, effective May 21, 2014. He will replace John Kostouros, who retired in Jan. 2014.

This selection comes after a national search that produced a deep pool of applicants.  

Berentson’s experience includes nearly a decade of service at the Minnesota Legislature, with his last position there being the Director of Communications and Media Relations at the Minnesota State Senate. He currently serves as a policy analyst and lobbyist for the Association of Minnesota Counties, where his role is focused on communicating the interests of local governments to state officials through direct lobbying, legislative testimony, and written communication. 

“Beau brings to the position exceptional communication skills, with a proven ability to develop effective external and internal strategic communications,” said Shorba. “His work at the Legislature and with local units of government will also significantly help the Judicial Branch maintain our relationships with these important partners.” 

Berentson received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and his Master's Degree in Advocacy and Political Leadership from the University of Minnesota, Duluth.