Office of Government Relations

Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of Government Relations (OGR) is to provide liaison assistance between the University of the District of Columbia and external constituencies that will advance the strategic interests of and funding opportunities for the University among local and national elected officials, staff members, constituents and governmental agencies at all levels. In serving the University, OGR assists the University in achieving both the vision and mission set forth in the University Strategic Plan. OGR provides information and other leadership about our legislatively designated, urban land-grant University, which has as its tri-part mission: teaching, research and service. Communication and personal contact with elected and appointed officials and staff is an essential part of OGR operations and it effectiveness.

Staff

Aimee Occhetti, Esq. – Vice President

As Vice President of the Office of Government Relations, Aimee oversees all of the University’s federal and local government initiatives. During her many years of experience in both local and federal politics, Aimee has made numerous important connections that have proven useful in advancing the University’s agenda.

Before joining the University in February 2009, Aimee lobbied on behalf of numerous clients while employed for private lobbying firms.  Previously, she worked for a District of Columbia agency, a District of Columbia Councilmember, and two members of the U.S. House of Representatives.  In addition, Aimee has practiced law and worked for the Democratic National Committee.

Aimee holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Political Science from North Carolina State University and a Juris Doctor from the David A. Clarke School of Law at the University of the District of Columbia.  She also holds a Certified Public Manager Certificate from George Washington University.

Thomas Redmond – Director, State and Local Affairs

Thomas, a well-respected veteran of the District of Columbia government, acts as the University’s liaison with local officials in the District of Columbia Council and the Mayor’s Office.  He oversees the University’s local legislative agenda and keeps University officials up-to-date on the status of important political developments.

Thomas has held several positions in the District of Columbia government including chief of staff and staff counsel at executive agencies, chief of staff, staff director, and legislative counsel to a Councilmember, and acting executive director, associate general counsel, and director of government affairs for an independent District agency.

Thomas holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Mississippi, a Juris Doctor from Howard University School of Law, and a Master of Laws from Harvard Law School.

Patrick F. Bateman – Deputy Director, Federal Relations

Patrick is primarily focused on initiatives involving the legislative and executive branches of the federal government, helping ensure the University’s federal relations agenda is successfully implemented.  He makes sure that University officials stay current on federal legislative and public policy developments, and connects University representatives with decision makers on and around Capitol Hill.  As the deputy director, Patrick provides critical support to both the Director and Vice President on a wide variety of issues.

Patrick joined the University’s Office of Government Relations in May 2009.  Previously, Patrick served as the federal legislative liaison for an independent, craft-based labor organization.

Patrick holds both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in Political Science from James Madison University.  He is currently enrolled in the evening law program at the University’s David A. Clarke School of Law and is on schedule to complete his Juris Doctor in the spring of 2013.