Kaitlin Passafaro Named Vice President of Community and Government Relations

Berklee College of Music has named Kaitlin Passafaro as its new vice president of Community and Government Relations, beginning January 10.

Passafaro brings an extensive background in municipal, state, and federal government administration and leadership to the position. She was previously director of the Mayor’s Office of Intergovernmental Relations, where she served as senior advisor to former Boston mayors Martin J. Walsh and Kim Janey on critical policy initiatives. In this role, she oversaw a team of nine government affairs professionals; managed all administrative, human resource, and financial aspects of the department; and facilitated communication and coordination across city departments to address policy opportunities. As a member of the mayor’s cabinet, Passafaro helped to create the City of Boston’s 2021–2022 state legislative agenda, comprising more than 50 bills.

"We could not be more thrilled to have someone of Kaitlin's caliber join Berklee as vice president of Community and Government Relations," said Richard Hisey, Berklee's senior vice president of Administration and Finance, chief financial officer, and chief investment officer. "Kaitlin’s broad and deep background, strong record of accomplishment, and unique skill set will serve her and Berklee well in her new role and make her a very strong addition to our community."

For more than 12 years, Passafaro held various positions in the Boston Mayor’s Office, including director of policy for economic development. She analyzed proposed state and local legislation; advised the mayor, the chief of economic development, and other senior city officials; and made policy recommendations relative to reducing barriers, both actual and perceived, related to conducting business in Boston.

"I am honored to join this prestigious institution and am grateful for the opportunity to build upon the strong foundation of the college's past community and government relations work,” said Passafaro. “I look forward to collaborating with President Muhl, college leadership, our student body, and our government and community partners to support institutional advancement while prioritizing the vibrancy of our surrounding neighborhoods."

Passafaro holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Boston College and a master’s degree in public administration from the Sawyer Business School at Suffolk University.