As Chief of Staff, Deanna Ewart manages agency priorities and oversees major agency initiatives. As senior advisor to the Commissioner, she is ensuring agency-wide performance is in alignment with the agency’s strategic vision and strengthening collaboration. In her previous role at OGS, Deanna was the primary liaison for the with the State Legislature and all levels of local government as the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs.
Prior to OGS Deanna served as Chief of Staff for State Senator John W. Mannion and previously as Chief of Staff to State Senator Monica R. Martinez, prior to joining OGS. In these roles, Deanna served as the member’s primary strategic advisor, oversaw both District and Albany Office operations, and directed legislative initiatives. Deanna began her career in public service as Legislative Director for State Senator Phil Boyle.
Spanning over a decade in the State Senate, Deanna oversaw various standing committees including the Committee on Disabilities, Committee on Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development, and Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. Additionally, Deanna led the formation of the Joint Heroin and Opioid Addiction Task Force. During this time, Deanna advanced legislation such as tax relief for Superstorm Sandy victims, criminalizing revenge porn, and increasing access to state services for individuals with developmental disabilities.
She is a native of Suffolk County and graduated summa cum laude with a B.A. in Political Science from Stony Brook University.
