Moving into the next generation

We are pleased to announce exciting news about our company: Kate Lilja Lohnes is the new president of Lilja Communications. In her new role as a second-generation leader and owner, Kate will oversee all aspects of day-to-day operations of the company. Mary Lilja plans to continue to support Kate, the Lilja team and our clients with strategic counsel and writing as senior PR consultant.

This move represents formalizing a transition that has taken place over the last year as Mary underwent successful treatment for breast cancer and Kate stepped into a senior leadership role.

"Since Kate joined Lilja nearly four years ago, she has brought new energy and ideas to our organization, resulting in significant growth for the company," said Mary.

"I am honored to take over this business, which has been part of my life since I was a child," said Kate. "Working closely with Mary has been one of the highlights of my career, and I am grateful for her mentorship. I look forward to continuing to work closely with the wonderful Lilja team to serve our incredible clients in the months and years ahead."

Lilja Communications was founded on Feb. 1, 1988. Today the firm numbers six staff members and serves a variety of businesses, nonprofits, foundations, families and individuals, elevating the work they are doing to make a difference in their communities. We appreciate your support and look forward to a great year ahead!

About Kate Lilja Lohnes Kate first worked at Lilja on a Take Your Daughter to Work Day when she was 9 years old and interned at the firm while studying at St. Catherine University. Prior to joining the firm in 2016, she had a decade-long career in communications. Drawing on that experience, Kate is especially passionate about sharing the stories of purpose-driven, impact-oriented organizations that are doing good work in their communities. To learn more about Kate, read her bio.

About Mary Lilja For Mary, this caps more than three decades at Lilja — a firm she founded when she was a young mother with three children under the age of six. Following her successful cancer treatment last year, she looks forward to opening up a little more space for writing, yoga and fun adventures with her husband and their six grandchildren.