Christine Brainerd is a seasoned communications professional with nearly 20 years of experience in public information, public relations, and journalism.

Christine joined the City of Folsom as Communications Manager in January 2015 and was promoted to Communications Director in 2019. She is responsible for managing a comprehensive communications program, including news media relations, public information, community relations, and advertising. Christine was recognized as CAPIO’s 2023 Paul B. Clark recipient which recognizes change-makers and leaders in the public information field.

Christine came to Folsom from the City of Elk Grove, where she served as the Public Affairs Manager and Public Information Officer for nearly nine years. Her duties included serving as the primary media spokesperson and community liaison for Elk Grove.

Prior to working at the City of Elk Grove, Christine worked at two Sacramento-based public relations firms, where she managed national and statewide social marketing programs and public relations campaigns. Christine’s career started in journalism. She has written for a weekly newspaper and worked on the assignment desk at KTXL-TV FOX-40 News.

A communications graduate from California State University at Sacramento, Christine received an accreditation in public relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America, Universal Accreditation Board. She is the President-Elect of CAPIO and a recipient of numerous awards from regional, state, and national professional organizations. In 2016, Christine was honored with the 40 Under 40 Award by the Sacramento Business Journal, which recognizes young professionals for their accomplishments in their respective industries and for their contributions to the community at large. 

Christine lives in Folsom with her husband Sean, daughter Emily, and son Gavin.