As manager of government relations for the University of Nevada Health Sciences System (UNHSS), Tessa Hafen-Stewart works with representatives from local, state and federal governmental agencies and serves as a primary liaison to key stakeholders in the development of the UNHSS. She also conducts policy analysis and assists in the development and dissemination of policy initiatives to support the development of the UNHSS and its programs and initiatives.

Hafen-Stewart ran for U.S. Congress in Nevada in 2006. Following a close loss, she joined the UNHSS. Prior to her congressional campaign, Hafen-Stewart served as press secretary to U.S. Senator Harry Reid for eight years in Washington D.C. where she was responsible for media and communications strategies. In Reid’s office, she also participated in major policy and legislative discussions and was responsible for analysis, development and dissemination of complex policy initiatives to Nevada constituents and other public audiences.

A native of Henderson, Nevada, Hafen-Stewart has worked as a substitute teacher in Clark County teaching various grade levels and subjects. She is active in her community and church group, and is a strong civic participant.

Hafen-Stewart holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications with a minor in Spanish and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Southern Utah University in 1998.